The Maryland Zoo has been named “Employer of the Year” by The Arc Baltimore for its efforts in hiring three full-time employees with developmental disabilities, all of whom are supported by The Arc, and providing them with a warm, open, and inclusive culture.
The Arc Baltimore also presented a Special Appreciation Award to Zoo employee Kate Walker for her work in supervising volunteers and co-workers supported by The Arc.
“Everyone at The Maryland Zoo and Kate Walker in particular treat employees with disabilities the same as their other Zoo employees and provide them with the same opportunities, enabling them to shine for who they are,” says Kathleen Durkin, The Arc Baltimore’s Chief Executive Officer.
“The Zoo’s Visitors’ Services Operations Team welcome and work with The Arc’s job coaches to help people succeed,” Durkin continues. “When one of our supported employees was struggling with using the radio for communications, for example, Zoo staff were encouraging and expressed confidence that he could master it, which he did.”
Durkin notes that Kate Walker includes employees supported by The Arc Baltimore in regular outings with other co-workers and offers rides when needed. “Kate is a friend and mentor to one person in particular, a natural people person who loves interacting with guests and has become a valued member of The Zoo’s custodial team. She has her radar up if she senses he’s having a problem and is known to reach out to The Arc staff to make sure he is getting the support he needs,” Durkin explains.
Both the Employer of the Year and Special Appreciation Awards were presented during The Arc Baltimore’s recent Annual Meeting and Awards Reception. The event honors individuals who have gone “above and beyond” in their service to the organization and the people with developmental disabilities who are recipients of its programs and services.
“The Annual Meeting is our opportunity to honor all those who have given so much of themselves to the mission of The Arc Baltimore, from community partners and volunteers to supported individuals, staff members, and other heroes of the organization,” says Durkin. “It is their hard work that is at the very heart of our vision for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live independently, work in meaningful jobs, and enjoy friendships and activities in the community.”
As in past years, the 2023 Annual Meeting and Awards Reception featured a number of recognitions, as well as the election of The Arc Baltimore’s new board of directors and officers.
The Arc Baltimore supports people with developmental disabilities (autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, intellectual disability) to lead fulfilling lives with a sense of belonging, purpose, and meaningful relationships. The Arc provides employment training and support, day and residential services, family support and education, treatment foster care, respite care, public policy advocacy, and information and referrals. For more information, visit www.thearcbaltimore.org or call 410-296-2272.
