In the News

Volunteer firefighter shortage; specialized training for dentists; Rochester Music Hall of Fame

The Arc of Monroe Board Chair Joe Kelly’s wife, Diane, and son, Ryan, recently joined Connections to help shine a light on an important issue. Alongside reporting from WXXI’s Racquel Stephen, they shared why specialized dental care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities matters, as the Eastman Institute for Oral Health launches new training for residents through a recent grant. Their voices helped highlight how this effort can improve access to compassionate, informed care for local families who may benefit most. Click to 12:36 to hear the update.

How do autistic adults prepare for when their lifetime caregivers pass away?

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — The special needs community relies on consistent care. For Abbie, her mom and dad have been her primary caregivers since she was diagnosed with autism at 2 years old.

Mikey and Mrs. Kasha Davis Reunite on Podcast

Tune in to Auntie with Mrs. Kasha Davis, featuring Tracy Crosby and Mikey from The Arc of Monroe. Mikey and Kasha first teamed up as partners in the inaugural Dancing with The Arc in 2023.

The Arc of Monroe Launches “ArcNext” Internship Program to Develop the Next Generation of Human Services Professionals

Rochester, NY — The Arc of Monroe is proud to introduce ArcNext, a new 8-week paid internship program designed to “grow our own” future workforce and expand inclusive employment opportunities across the community.

Smiles, floats and shamrocks at Rochester’s St. Patrick’s Day parade

The Arc of Monroe waves to the crowd along E Main Street during the Tops St. Patrick’s Day Parade in downtown Rochester Saturday, March 14, 2026.

The Arc Named Community Organization of the Year at St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Lead Volunteer Kate McBride discusses The Arc and all the honorees and the history of the parade.

‘My ancestors are taking the wheel’; Local artist celebrates Black History Month

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — February is Damon Thomas’ favorite month. For Thomas, Black History Month is an opportunity to honor his ancestors through his artwork.

Ballantyne Day Services residents compete in Arc of Monroe’s Winter Olympic games

Chili, N.Y. — While the world is watching the games over in Italy, the Arc Monroe is finding its own way to get into the Olympic spirit.

Arc of Monroe hosting Winter Ballantyne Olympics

The entire globe is gripped by Olympic fever, and Rochester is no exception.

Arc of Monroe is hosting its own Winter Ballantyne Olympics, highlighting athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Behind the Curtain: Damon Thomas turns art into opportunity at Arc of Monroe

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — Black History Month is a time to honor legacy and celebrate the impact being made right now in communities across the country. For Damon Thomas, an artist, musician, and entrepreneur supported by the Arc of Monroe, that impact is deeply personal.

RBJ presents the 2026 Power 100

We are excited to continue our Power List project with our sixth annual Power 100 list.

Ready to Work: How disability self-advocacy builds independence in the job force

Self-advocate Maggie McCrumb knows she’s capable of working, but there are barriers to finding job. From transportation and workplace attitudes to managing anxiety and advocating for accommodations, Maggie shares what it really takes to pursue employment as a person with a disability.

For media inquiries, please contact Christen Smith, Senior Director of Marketing & Communications

Christen Smith
Senior Director of Marketing & Communications
The Arc of Monroe
Office: (585) 271-0660 x1315
Cell: (585) 773-8535
chrsmith@arcmonroe.org

Mackenzie Wolfer
Marketing & Communications Manager
The Arc of Monroe
Office: (585) 271-0660 x2587
mwolfer@arcmonroe.org

Sophie Wojciechowski
Marketing Specialist
The Arc of Monroe
swojciechowski@arcmonroe.org