WEYMOUTH, MA, ISSUED AUGUST 6, 2024…A record-breaking 300 guests attended the 11th Annual Summer Soiree hosted by the Arc of the South Shore, a family-oriented, community-based non-profit providing information, referrals, and community programs for individuals with disabilities.
Held on the shores of Webb State Park in North Weymouth on June 20th, the signature event raised $200,000 to benefit the organization’s mission to empower those with disabilities to reach their fullest potential.
The event brought together local businesses, community leaders, restaurants and spirit providers, but most importantly, the individuals and families that The Arc has supported for the past 73 years.
The soiree was emceed by Jim Fagan and Liam Martin with live music from The Berkshire Hills Music Academy Jazz Ensemble. Guests enjoyed an evening of delicious food and specialty cocktails from Abby Park, Alba, Brick and Beam, Burtons Grill & Bar, Davio’s, Fratelli’s, Legal Sea Foods, Montilio’s Baking Company and Wood Fired Pizza, Novara, Sip Margs, Square Cafe, The Beth, The Venetian, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Tosca.
Among the many highlights of the evening came when a resident spoke eloquently about his experience living in The Arc of the South Shore’s first-ever group home with integrated smart technology.
Introduced during the event was Marynel Wahl, the new Chair of The Arc’s Board of Directors.
“We are so grateful to all who made our 11th Annual Summer Soiree a smashing success,” said Abigail Parrilla, CEO of The Arc of the South Shore, extending thanks to the 35 volunteers, 46 sponsors, and 14 restaurants “who joined us under the twinkling lights of our magnificent tent.”
Financial support raised from the soiree will help the Arc to supply information, workshops, support groups, therapeutic activities, and inclusive, community-based programming for children and adults through the Arc’s Autism Resource Center; continue to support 4,000 individuals and families each year throughout the South Shore; develop more community-based activities for individuals; expand community living options for individuals; strengthen self-advocacy efforts; enhance clinical support for programs resulting in a positive quality of life for each person; create innovative new programming; and support capital needs to expand facilities as a result of increased referrals.
These services include an Autism Resource Center, 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 73-year history, they have helped more than 100,000 people.
