October News Notes from the CEO

News Notes October 2022

As the hot days of Summer dwindle away, the fall months are drawing closer. And while it's sad to say goodbye to summertime living, the month of October offers the perfect intermediary between the dog days of summer and the cold days of winter. It's a transition time “for everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1) The spiritual meaning of October is a time of reflection and introspection. It is a month that encourages you to take stock of your life and make sure you’re on the right track. October is also a time for self-care, as the season typically includes cold weather, shorter days, and shorter nights. This can make it more difficult to get outside and be active, so it’s important to make sure you’re taking time for yourself and getting enough sleep.

Again, if you have a loved one who can't attend in person, please consider Arkay’s virtual skill building (VSB) which can assist your loved one. I want to emphasize VSB because it would be so good for your love one to interact & learn with others during this time period. We have a great team who has put together a great curriculum for the people we serve. I really think you would enjoy being part of this program. These sessions have been very welcomed by our participants. Our team is very dedicated to helping our consumers to connect with others using technology.

Also, please know that all of Arkay’s in-person programs including transportation have been up & running daily to serve you. Activities are all back & bowling is up & running. Please consider coming back in person were we have many things to offer you.

Supported employment is on the move & we have opportunities for you.

We are ready to serve you. At the end of the day, we want two things from you:

1. We want you to be satisfied with our services, &

2. We want to let you know how much we appreciate you for choosing Arkay.

Further, Arkay continues to partner with Charity Roasters. Arkay is able to provide you and your loved ones with delicious bags of Arkay Coffee. All Proceeds go toward furthering Arkay's mission to service the developmentally disabled and to support our consumers. Each bag is 12oz. of ground or whole bean coffee and all blends cost $15. It comes in 8 varieties.

Please visit www.miarkay.org/arkay-coffee.

Lastly, Arkay has a new 3-year strategic plan. Please feel free to view the document on our website. A great thing in the plan is our new coffee shop in Trenton which will be opening soon. We are very excited to see our consumers interact & work in this new shop. We can’t wait until opening day. Please come & enjoy! Please consider setting aside part of your budget to support the work of Arkay with a taxdeductible charitable donation. Supporters can donate online or by mail. Visit www.miarkay.org to make a gift using a credit card or send a check to Arkay.

Very Sincerely,

Kevin McGuckin

Arkay CEO