The Arc Mercer recently celebrated Liberia's 177th Independence Day with a momentous gesture of international collaboration. In a joint initiative with the City of Trenton, The Arc Mercer donated a fire truck to Monrovia, Liberia, a city with a population of 1.8 million and only one fire truck. This donation, announced during the vibrant celebration at the agency's headquarters, will significantly enhance the city's emergency response capabilities and is a testament to the growing partnership between the two cities.
The ceremonial raising of the Liberian flag, accompanied by the national anthem, was a poignant moment, symbolizing the deep cultural ties between The Arc Mercer and the Liberian community. This connection is further solidified through Project 601, an ambitious endeavor to establish the first Arc International chapter in Monrovia, Liberia. Project 601 aims to provide high-quality services, education and career opportunities to individuals with IDD in each of Liberia's 15 counties. The project was born out of the passion and dedication of The Arc Mercer's Team Atmosphere Committee (TAC), a committee of mission-critical staff who foster cultural understanding and advocate for the needs of diverse communities within the agency.
A moving Liberian Pledge of Allegiance led by Claudia Nance, Taweh Witherspoon, Winifred Smith, and Ambrose Togar, all Arc Mercer Mission Critical staff and active members of the TAC, further underscored the event's significance. The Arc Mercer’s Liberian population is large in number and incredibly proud of their roots. They take that sense of pride to work with them every day by providing the absolute best care for our consumers. In the words of Arc Mercer Executive Director, Steve Cook, “The greatest export Liberia brings to America is their culture.”
Arc Mercer Board President Maria Fischer also addressed the attendees, expressing the Board's unwavering support for the TAC and its initiatives. She emphasized the board's commitment to giving back to the dedicated staff who provide exceptional care to the individuals they serve. "Because it's important to you, it's important to us," she stated, underscoring the organization's dedication to its employees and their passions.
The Executive Director of The Arc of New Jersey, Tom Baffuto, was also in attendance and praised The Arc Mercer for its innovative approach and commitment to making a difference. "They dream, they do," Baffuto said, commending the agency's vision and ability to turn dreams into reality.
Sekou Kamara, the Arc Mercer’s controller and a representative of the Liberian Cultural Group within the TAC, recognized the invaluable contributions of various Liberian associations and organizations, highlighting the collective effort in promoting inclusivity and empowerment for individuals with special needs. The Liberian Cultural Group, under the umbrella of the TAC, has been instrumental in establishing vital contacts and support for Project 601, showcasing the power of cultural collaboration in driving positive change.
Kamara challenged Liberians to take ownership in lowering the stigma of IDD in their country, saying, “When someone has your back you should help watch your front.” The Arc Mercer is here to help, but Liberians must share responsibility in lowering the stigma of IDD in their country in order to drive change.
The highlight of the celebration was the keynote address delivered by Ambassador Witherspoon, who spoke on the theme "LiberiArc: On the Move, Ready to Achieve." Ambassador Witherspoon emphasized the importance of sustainable development and international cooperation in achieving a brighter future for all Liberians, aligning with the goals of Project 601. He stressed the importance of inclusivity, stating, "We encourage all Liberians to join the arc in their mission to leave no persons with disabilities behind. People with autism, down syndrome, and [other disabilities] have been forgotten.”
The Liberian government just declared this a priority and the Arc Mercer aligns with their mission. The government will provide unhindered support to Arc's Project 601. He concluded his address with a rousing quote from the Liberian national anthem, "In union strong success is sure. We cannot fail!"
Following the keynote address, attendees enjoyed a delicious spread of authentic Liberian cuisine, fostering a sense of community and cultural exchange. The event was a resounding success, drawing over 150 guests and reaffirming The Arc Mercer's commitment to
diversity, inclusion, and international collaboration.
The Arc Mercer's Liberian Independence Day celebration not only honored a rich cultural heritage but also served as a testament to the organization's unwavering dedication to empowering individuals with IDD both locally and globally. The event showcased the power of unity, collaboration, and employee-led initiatives like the TAC in driving positive change and creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
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