The Arc Baltimore Celebrates 75 Years with Diamond Anniversary Gala
The Arc Baltimore marks its 75th anniversary with a fundraising gala that highlights the organization's evolution from a grassroots parent movement to a comprehensive service provider supporting people with developmental disabilities.
The Arc Baltimore will host "Carats & Cocktails" on October 18 at the Maryland Science Center to celebrate its 75th anniversary and raise funds for its ongoing mission supporting people with developmental disabilities. The event represents a significant milestone for an organization that began in 1950 when four sets of parents envisioned better lives for their children with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The anniversary gala features diamond and champagne giveaways, live music by Nelly's Echo from NBC's "The Voice," and a DJ set by Landis Expandis. Attendees will enjoy culinary offerings from Rouge Catering, signature spirits by Old Line Spirits, and full access to Maryland Science Center exhibits. The event also includes an auction featuring artwork created by artists with disabilities.
Raffle tickets for a genuine diamond valued at $1,200-$1,600 and a three-night Tuscan Wine Experience worth $5,000 can be purchased in advance at https://www.thearcbaltimore.org/carats/. The organization has set an ambitious fundraising goal of $175,000 for its diamond anniversary, with proceeds directly supporting The Arc's comprehensive services for people with developmental disabilities.
"For 75 years, The Arc Baltimore has been a powerful force for inclusion, built on the courage of four sets of parents who, in 1950, dared to dream of a better life for their children with intellectual and developmental disabilities," said Kathleen McNally Durkin, The Arc's Chief Executive Officer. "Their grassroots movement transformed a narrative of isolation into one of endless possibilities, ensuring children and adults with disabilities are valued and included in the community."
The organization's evolution from a small parent-led initiative to an established service provider with more than 700 employees demonstrates the lasting impact of community-driven disability advocacy. The Arc Baltimore now provides employment training and support, day and residential services, family support and education, treatment foster care, assistive technology services, respite care, and public policy advocacy.
Tickets for "Carats & Cocktails" are available at $175 per person or $1,650 for a table of 10 through https://www.thearcbaltimore.org/carats/. The event not only celebrates seven decades of service but also reinforces the ongoing need for community support and inclusion initiatives for people with developmental disabilities.