DANVERS — Northeast Arc announced Wednesday that it received a two-year license — the longest license that can be awarded — from the state Department of Developmental Services (DDS). The not-for-profit organization that helps children and adults with disabilities become full participants in the community participates in a full licensing and certification process In order to receive funds from DDS.
“This is a fantastic accomplishment,” said Joanne Plourde, Chief Operating Officer of Northeast Arc. “Our residential services team under the leadership of Chloe Browning and our day, work, and employment services team, led by Kathy Marques, continue to do outstanding work for the people we serve. I’m very proud that the Department of Developmental Services rated us highly in their most recent evaluation.”
Northeast Arc was recognized for excellence in several significant areas, including its strategic planning process, systems for managing people’s healthcare, the tools and systems the agency has developed and used to foster independence and growth, respectful staff interactions with the people supported, ensuring people are fully engaged in their communities, and the staff’s ability to meet the needs of the people the Northeast Arc supports.
“It is important to note that the reviewers gave the Northeast Arc a 100 percent Certification/Planning and Quality Management score,” added Plourde. “These are the real-life indicators that make a difference in the daily lives of individuals with disabilities and reflect the highest quality of services. We are pleased to have achieved such a positive outcome for our services that help people living with developmental disabilities. Our dedication to improve the quality of lives for all of the people and families we serve will continue.”
Northeast Arc serves more than 15,000 people in 190 Massachusetts cities and towns each year.