Arc of Westchester Earns Standards for Excellence Designation

Arc of Westchester, the largest agency in the county serving children, teens and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including individuals on the autism spectrum, and their families, is thrilled to announce it has once again received the official Seal of Excellence certificate and designation from the Standards for Excellence Institute®. Arc of Westchester first received the three-year accreditation in 2013, when it became the first New York State organization to hold this designation.

“We are honored to once again receive the Seal of Excellence from The Standards for Excellence Institute and remain steadfast in upholding the principles and practices of strong nonprofit management and governance,” said Richard P. Swierat, Executive Director, Arc of Westchester. “This is an exceptional honor and one that clearly recognizes Arc of Westchester’s ongoing commitment to excellence that is showcased by our board of directors, staff and volunteers in service to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.”

Arc of Westchester was put through an evaluation process in six areas of governance and management with 72 implementation goals. Organizations that successfully complete the accreditation program are awarded The Seal of Excellence, which symbolizes trust, excellence in management, leadership, openness and disclosure in nonprofits.

“Arc of Westchester’s application was among the strongest that I have ever reviewed. I can’t remember a time when an organization was issued such a variety and large number of commendations,” said Amy Coates Madsen, Director of the Standards for Excellence Institute®.

Arc of Westchester’s services are based on a lifelong continuum of care and provide the support needed to achieve a life full of distinction and happiness. The organization focuses on individual choice, future planning, and community inclusion as a basis for its service support.

The Standards for Excellence Institute® is a national initiative established to promote the highest standards of ethics, effectiveness, and accountability in nonprofit governance, management, and operations, and to help all nonprofit organizations meet these high benchmarks.

For more information, visit www.arcwestchester.org.

###

About Arc of Westchester
Arc of Westchester, founded in 1949, is the largest agency in Westchester County supporting children, teens and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including individuals on the autism spectrum, and their families. Over 800 employees provide more than 2,000 individuals throughout the county with a broad range of innovative and effective programs and services designed to foster independence, productivity and participation in community life.

The mission of Arc of Westchester is to empower children, teens and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including individuals on the autism spectrum, to achieve their potential by strengthening families and encouraging personal choices, abilities and interests.