The Arc Baltimore Celebrates 75 Years of Disability Inclusion with Diamond Anniversary Gala

The Arc Baltimore will host Carats & Cocktails on Saturday, October 18 at the Maryland Science Center to celebrate its 75th anniversary and raise critical funds for its disability support services. The event represents a milestone for an organization that began in 1950 when four sets of parents envisioned better lives for their children with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Kathleen McNally Durkin, The Arc's Chief Executive Officer, emphasized the organization's origins as a grassroots movement that transformed narratives of isolation into possibilities for inclusion. Their grassroots movement transformed a narrative of isolation into one of endless possibilities, ensuring children and adults with disabilities are valued and included in the community, Durkin stated. This anniversary celebration highlights how far the organization has come from its humble beginnings to becoming a comprehensive service provider.

The anniversary gala, presented by Mutual of America Financial Group, will feature diamond and champagne giveaways, live musical performance by Nelly's Echo from NBC's The Voice, and a DJ set by Landis Expandis. Attendees will enjoy culinary offerings from Rouge Catering, signature spirits by Old Line Spirits, and full access to Maryland Science Center exhibits throughout the evening.

A significant component of the fundraising effort includes raffle opportunities for a genuine diamond valued between $1,200 and $1,600 and a three-night Tuscan Wine Experience for two couples valued at $5,000. Raffle tickets are limited and available for advance purchase at https://www.thearcbaltimore.org/carats/.

The organization has set an ambitious $175,000 fundraising goal for its diamond anniversary, with proceeds from the event directly supporting The Arc Baltimore's mission. Ticket options include individual tickets at $175 each or tables of ten for $1,650, available through https://www.thearcbaltimore.org/carats or by phone. This fundraising target reflects the ongoing need for support services in the disability community.

For seventy-five years, The Arc Baltimore has evolved from its humble beginnings into an organization employing more than 700 full- and part-time staff members while providing comprehensive services including employment training, residential support, family education, treatment foster care, and public policy advocacy. The anniversary celebration not only honors this legacy but also fuels the organization's continued work creating inclusive communities where people with developmental disabilities can build meaningful relationships and lead fulfilling lives. This sustained commitment demonstrates how charitable organizations can create lasting social change through dedicated community support and strategic fundraising initiatives.