The Arc of the Quad Cities Area honored several individuals and organizations with the Arc’s Catalyst Awards on Friday, August 9, during a ceremony at the Quad Cities Botanical Center in Rock Island.
The awards recognize “tireless champions who have dedicated themselves to ensuring that all people with disabilities experience the dignity, independence, and full participation in society that they deserve,” according to a news release from the Arc of the Quad Cities.
The Arc presented the Community Advocate of the Year Award to Rock Island Parks & Recreation for its outstanding efforts in enriching our community through a strong commitment to equality and inclusion.
“Rock Island Parks & Recreation understands the importance of providing opportunities that cater to the strengths, interests, and choices of people with disabilities. Through integrating sports activities for individuals with disabilities, they create inclusive spaces where everyone can participate and feel valued,” the release said. “Their programs are truly at the heart of our communities, bringing people together from all walks of life.”
Happy Joe’s East Moline was recognized for fostering a positive workplace culture where inclusion matters in both its public and working spaces with the Community Advocate of the Year Award.
“It’s rare for a company’s culture to translate so effectively into its franchises, but Happy Joe’s East Moline currently employs three individuals with disabilities,” The Arc release said. “These employees are integral members of the team, participating in all aspects of running an efficient restaurant. Thank you Happy Joe’s for integrating people with disabilities into the workplace for over twenty years and demonstrating an outstanding corporate culture.”
The Arc presented the Community Partner of the Year Award to IOSSI Construction Inc. for its strong partnership with The Arc that has maintained and improved the agency’s residential services program. IOSSI Construction is a family-owned business with decades of experience in construction, remodeling, and restoration. With their assistance, The Arc has expanded residential services across 18 group homes.
The Arc also honored Steve Loete posthumously with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Mr. Loete was a cherished member of The Arc’s family for 49 years, continuously receiving support from The Arc until his death in February.
“Known for his vibrant personality and love of being around others, Mr. Loete found his community, his tribe, through The Arc’s Community Supports program, which not only supported him in his home of choice but also gave him a profound sense of belonging,” the release said. “Steve’s legacy lives on in the remarkable journey of his life, which steadily bent towards greater inclusion and appreciation for people with disabilities.”
In announcing this year’s awards, the Rock Island-based agency said “A single person or organization cannot pave the journey to equity for people with disabilities, but by those who share a unified vision and passion for inclusion. The individuals and organizations honored by The Arc at the Catalyst Awards are true champions of this cause.”
The Catalyst Awards were made possible by these sponsors: Title Sponsor, Quad City Bank & Trust; Advocacy Sponsor, Modern Woodmen of America; Dessert Sponsor, Quad Cities Investment Group; Table Sponsors, Northwest Bank & Trust, Platinum Information Services, CBI Bank & Trust, and IOSSI Construction.
