As a spokesperson for the Arc of Texas, I have had the privilege of being invited to many events that the Arc puts on. My favorites are the social events like the Arc of Tarrant County’s monthly dance. So, naturally I was very excited that not only would I be attending the biggest event in a decade for the Arc of Texas, but I would also be able to give a short speech! I was asked to speak about my wonderful sister Simone, as well as highlighting my efforts to raise awareness and financial support for the Arc. It was a true honor, and I’ll admit a little intimidating. Especially knowing that I would be sharing the podium with Gordon Hartman, founder of Morgan’s Wonderland. Mr. Hartman is someone that I really admire!
The guest list was impressive and I was thrilled to be able to meet so many influential people involved in the intellectual and developmental disabilities community, such as Peter Burns, the Executive Director of Arc of the United States, and many of the Arc’s True Blue Society members. Also in attendance, Dr. Libby Doggett and Congressman Lloyd Doggett. The event started off with a social meet and greet, a review of historical highlights of the Arc of Texas and then a fantastic dinner. Gordon Hartman was presented with the Honorary Achievement Award and gave a moving speech that had the whole room reaching for a tissue. I was more than a little emotional and deeply moved by Mr. Hartman’s speech. I tried hard to “pull it all together” because soon it would be my turn to talk about my sister and the obstacles that she and others with disabilities face and overcome. My voice was still very shaky with emotion, but in the end I hope the audience was able to understand everything I tried to communicate. The live auction of wine baskets concluded the anniversary event and it was time to say good night to everyone that I just met. It was refreshing to meet so many people as passionate about this organization as I am, and I look forward to seeing the Arc continue their efforts for the next 60 years. A very special thank you to Lisa Rivers and the entire planning committee for a wonderful evening, and to my dad who graciously agreed to be my date for the night! Enjoy the pics below from the party.
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| Me with Peter Berns, President , Arc of the United States |
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| Me with Gordon Hartman |
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| Me with Mike Bright, President of the Arc of Texas |
