The Arc of Greater Williamsburg celebrated major milestones at an event outside the nonprofit organization’s Strawberry Plains office Monday, as grant funding allowed the purchase of two new vans while the transportation coordinator celebrated 25 years on the job.
The custom, handicap-accessible vans will help the organization transport its developmentally disabled adult clients to various programs and events.
“We have a lot of need,” said Pam McGregor, The Arc’s executive director. “Ninety percent of our clients need transportation.”
The Arc holds eight or more activities a month, from Bingo nights to 5K runs. The vans pick up and drop off clients at their front doors, giving caregivers a break while engaging the clients who are spread out across Williamsburg, James City County and beyond, from Anderson’s Corner in Toano to parts of York County.
The Department of Rail and Public Transportation subsidized 80 percent of the cost, but that still left a $25,000 bill for The Arc. Grants from two community organizations — the Williamsburg Health Foundation and the Williamsburg Community Foundation — helped cover the rest.
“It’s pretty incredible, truly a community effort,” McGregor said, adding they plan to let other similar organizations borrow the vans. “We’re very dependent on top-notch people that have that compassion.”
Despite the afternoon heat, the event drew the likes of Sen. Monty Mason and Carol Sale, the Health Foundation’s new CEO who started in May.
“The Health Foundation is just thrilled to be able to support The Arc and the great work that they’re doing,” Sale said.
The event also commemorated the 25th work anniversary of Harold Mason, The Arc’s transportation coordinator and longest-running employee. He lauded how much he’s seen the organization grow since 1993, when drivers were clients’ family members and the vehicles were personal cars.
“It’s an amazing program,” he said, noting membership has increased significantly. “As I began to work with them, I realized they’re just like me and you.”
