Kristy, East Haddam, employee, The Arc General Store and Bakery, makes one of many sales of her lovely handmade jewelry to Representative Betsy Ritter, Waterford, at the Grand Opening on September 16th.

story & photo
by Angela Olsen

Participants and staff rolled out the red carpet at The Arc General Store and Bakery at the Thomas J. Sullivan Transition Center, 52 Sacred Heart Drive, Groton, on Thursday, September 16.  The Arc of New London County was founded in 1952 by concerned parents of persons with intellectual disabilities with the goal of teaching them a myriad of life skills.
I can say, without hesitation, that The Arc General Store and Bakery is a welcome addition, offering a lovely selection of irresistible on-site baked treats, boxed-lunches, several retail items, and handmade jewelry meticulously fashioned with a massive dose of LOVE!

As I made my way to the entrance, admiring the fun and cheerful window art, I was greeted by Paul Harvey, Director of Development.  He is a generous host, introducing me to Kim Blair, Director of Employment Services, Lori King, Chief Operations Officer, Allan Selserman, store manager and Kathleen Stauffer, the Executive Director who replaced Thomas J.Sullivan.

With my tasty cup of Cool Beans Coffee, in hand, I am treated to a VIP tour of the bright and immaculate property.  Says Paul, regarding The Arc, “We have a commitment to people’s aspiration. We want to allow them to become involved with their community in every way.”  Such a refreshing perspective!

The first stop on my tour found me in the enviable kitchen on the second floor.  Busy at work was Nick Carter, Ledyard, with several squares of puff pastry, a container of the secret apple-turnover filling and some tools of the trade.  The sweet and spicy smell of the turnovers and chocolate chip cookies danced in the air around us.  Nick loves being a part of The Arc program and starting at the Norwich facility in 2008, he proudly found himself through baking, “I always wanted to cook because my mother is a great cook!”  Well, the ‘apple-turnover’ doesn’t fall far from the tree, as I heard dozens of “oooohs” and “aaaahs” as guests sampled the goods, freshly prepared by none other than Nick!

Next stop was a chat with Allan Selserman, who was assisting Shelby Kenyon with the responsibilities of the cash register.  Allan formerly worked in corporate America as a manager for Exxon.  After the tragic loss of his son in 2008, he took a voluntary leave of absence, and eventually learned of the opportunity to work at The Arc.  “I never had a job which was so enriching as it is healing.  I watch them progress and work independently.  It’s so rewarding.”

Shelby and I became fast friends, as she showed me how to brew delicious Hazelnut coffee, and talked me through all that she learned about baking those famous turnovers!  She was extremely curious about the SK-Modified Stock Car, so we both snuck outside to have a closer look.  She pointed out The Arc logo on the car, which Allan’s family generously sponsored.  It was a good thing the keys weren’t in it, as Shelby nearly convinced me to take her for a spin!

Kristy seemed to be at every post throughout the opening, a perky young woman, with tons of energy, a contagious smile and the most amazing dimples!  First, she worked as a greeter, then as an independent cashier, from there she was helping people select gorgeous beaded jewelry.  Did I mention that she makes most of it?  I was blown away by the attention to detail, lobster claw clasps, and well, Kelly has expensive taste, using Swarovski crystals in several pieces!  I asked her to put aside some for me because they were selling fast! (See page 9 for a photo of what I purchased).
Local politicians, Representatives Eliza Wright and Betsy Ritter, as well as, Senator Andrea Stillman, gathered to present the participants with a much deserved Citation from the General Assembly and many congratulations.  Representative Betsy Ritter, Waterford, reminded those in attendance, that “the holidays are coming, and to come do some shopping since The Arc provides the community with great opportunity to show who they are!”

Kathleen recalled the severe epilepsy her aunt suffered many years ago.  She was unable to attend school and was lost in the shuffle.  “The Arc provides the social networks, community ties, and contacts that the average family might easily take for granted.  We support full inclusion.”  I say, job well done!

For more info or to download a coupon for a free turnover, please check out their website at www.thearcnl.org.

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