Arc of Maui County celebrates 70th anniversary
Arc of Maui County, a local nonprofit organization providing services to the intellectually and developmentally disabled community, celebrated its 70th anniversary last month.
In 1954, a group of concerned parents came together to advocate for the rights of their children to receive intellectual and developmental disabilities support and services on Maui. What started as a place for disabled individuals to gather for day program activities while offering respite to families and caregivers, has evolved into the largest licensed ICF (Intermediate Care Facility) and domiciliary residential/group home provider in Maui County. Services expanded to provide one-on-one services within the community and families homes, adult day health programs and employment training. In 2003, Arc began offering its service on Molokaʻi and, in 2015, opened the island’s first licensed domiciliary group home.
On Aug. 21, 2024, Arc of Maui celebrated its 70th anniversary at The Mill House located on the grounds of Maui Tropical Plantation with participants and staff. The celebration was filled with awards, performances and food, as Arc of Maui CEO Aspen Wallwork and board of directors recognized long-serving staff.
“It’s heartwarming to see where we started and where we are now,” said Wallwork. “70 years is a remarkable milestone, but our journey is far from over. I’d like to extend my thanks to all Arc of Maui employees and board of directors, past and present, who have contributed to our success. Looking forward to our 75th and 100th anniversary, Arc of Maui County will continue to serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families and our community as best we can.”
Recognized for their years of service were: Antje Pater (38 years), Samuel Charles (29 years), Nancy Segundo (27 years), Paulo Sabado (25 years), Bud Daumen (22 years), Kaahaaina McGuire (21 years), and Aspen Wallwork (21 years). All of the following staff have 20 years of service: Rubie Andres, Jonathan Andres, Georgina McKinley, Patricia Boettger, Elena Andres, Sonya Walker, Yolanda Patao and Ruth Hook.
“We continue to be humbled by the strength of the incredible individuals we serve, as well as the perseverance of their families and the dedicated Arc ‘ohana,” said Arc of Maui Board President Moana Kaho`ohanohano. “I am filled with joy and gratitude to see that the advocacy and work of caring parents, including my own, has resulted in Arc providing 70 years and thousands of service hours which has helped hundreds of families in our community.”