Arc Of Tuscaloosa Earns Homer S. Butler, Jr. Agency Of The Year Award

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The Arc of Tuscaloosa was honored last week with the Homer S. Butler, Jr. Agency of the Year Award during the United Way of West Alabama (UWWA) Campaign Kickoff held at the Bryant Conference Center.

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Former UWWA Campaign Chair Charles Nash presented the award to The Arc’s Executive Director Delshonda Thomas, along with the organization's staff, board of directors, and volunteers.

The Homer S. Butler, Jr. Agency of the Year Award is named in honor of the UWWA’s long-serving CEO and recognizes a partner agency that demonstrates outstanding service and commitment to its mission.

UWWA says the award recognizes The Arc’s exceptional efforts in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

First chartered in 1957 as a daycare for children with disabilities excluded from public schools following the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, The Arc of Tuscaloosa eventually shifted its focus to assist adults who had not benefited from these educational opportunities.

The Arc, at present, operates four locations and three training programs.

“The Arc of Tuscaloosa is an exemplary organization that truly makes us proud," Nash said. "They provide remarkable community services and are an extraordinary partner to families and individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities.”

UWWA also said that under Thomas’s leadership, The Arc has developed innovative programs such as employment training, grooming skills development and in-home respite care.

The Arc’s partnership with UWWA includes hosting volunteer events, Lunch and Learns for the Young Leaders Society and facility tours for interested companies.

“The work of The Arc of Tuscaloosa requires immense compassion, dedication, and care," Nash said. "It takes a leader, staff, board, and volunteers who are committed to service, and that certainly exemplifies the team at The Arc. Congratulations to The Arc of Tuscaloosa on this well-deserved honor and thank you for your unwavering dedication to your mission and our community.”

Past recipients of the Homer S. Butler, Jr. Agency of the Year Award include organizations such as Good Samaritan Clinic, Hospice of West Alabama and the Boys and Girls Clubs of West Alabama.

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