The Arc of Cabarrus County chose Rowan-Cabarrus Community College’s Compensatory Education Program and Cheryl Marsh, RCCC associate vice president of continuing education and dean of pre-college studies, to receive awards at the organization’s recently held 40th Anniversary Awards Banquet.
The Compensatory Education Program received the ARC award for Distinguished Community Service. Cheryl Marsh was honored with Arc’s Professional of the Year Award.
The Arc presents its Distinguished Community Service Award annually to an organization which performs “outstanding service” on behalf of persons with developmental disabilities. Barbara Gainey, director of RCCC’s Compensatory Education Program, and JoAnn Hawthorn, a lead instructor in the program, accepted the award on behalf of the college.
RCCC’s Compensatory Education Program works with adults who have developmental disabilities or have experienced a brain injury. The program’s goal is to help individuals acquire basic and life skills needed to function successfully in daily living and achieve greater independence.
The Arc presents it Professional of the Year Award to a person employed in community services or has demonstrated sensitivity and support for increased independence for people with developmental disabilities. Marsh was honored for her efforts to establish a compensatory education class at RCCC’s South Campus in Concord.
The Arc of Cabarrus County provides opportunities for individuals with mental retardation and developmental disabilities, their families and communities to enhance the individuals’ quality of life through advocacy, support and education.