HINGHAM, MA, ISSUED MARCH 20, 2026…The Arc of the South Shore, a family-oriented, community-based non-profit providing information, referrals, and community programs for individuals with disabilities now celebrating its 75th anniversary, in partnership with The South Shore Chamber of Commerce, recently hosted a preview screening of “Raising Us,” and were delighted to welcome the five South Shore women featured in the documentary that chronicles the five-decade journey raising and advocating for their children with Down syndrome and autism.
Photo: Original members of the South Shore Mothers Group (left to right): Karen Coyne, Norma Grassey, Taffy Nothnagle, Wilma Goodhue, and Maria Plante.
Raising Us” blends archival footage, present-day interviews with members of the South Shore Mothers Group, and accounts of the early years advocating for their children and ultimately for all children with autism, Down syndrome and IDD. Six years in the making, the powerful documentary is produced by Jen Plante Johnson, the daughter of Maria Plante, one of the founding members of the South Shore Mothers Group.
“We were honored to welcome the five women at the heart of the film and hear them share their experiences firsthand,” said Elizabeth Sandblom, CEO of The Arc of the South Shore. “It was an unforgettable afternoon filled with inspiration, reflection, and meaningful connection.”
About The Arc of the South Shore, Inc.
The Arc of the South Shore (The Arc) was founded in 1951 when a group of individuals created a school for children with disabilities. Then, in 1967, The Arc was deeded property at Webb State Park in Weymouth; the space gave the agency a permanent home and the opportunity to expand. By the end of the 1980s, The Arc became a multi-service agency. Today, The Arc of the South Shore supports people of all ages and disabilities in living full, independent lives by offering personalized, person-centered services, promoting inclusion in the community and advocating for their right to live their best lives.
The Arc of the South Shore (The Arc) was founded in 1951 when a group of individuals created a school for children with disabilities. Then, in 1967, The Arc was deeded property at Webb State Park in Weymouth; the space gave the agency a permanent home and the opportunity to expand. By the end of the 1980s, The Arc became a multi-service agency. Today, The Arc of the South Shore supports people of all ages and disabilities in living full, independent lives by offering personalized, person-centered services, promoting inclusion in the community and advocating for their right to live their best lives.
These services include Autism Supports, early intervention program, community supports, employment services, day supports and habilitation programs, in-home care, and residential services. All of their programs are based on their six core values of people first, community, transparency, self-determination, diversity, and respect. The Arc serves participants from communities throughout the South Shore, including Abington, Milton, Quincy, Randolph, Braintree, Weymouth, Hingham, Hull, Cohasset, Scituate, and Norwell. Through their 75-year history, they have helped more than 100,000 people.