From stepping up to support students during a classroom transition to taking life-saving action during medical emergencies, The Arc of Essex County’s third-quarter Arc Heroes demonstrated the extraordinary dedication, compassion, and quick thinking that make our staff so special.

The Arc Hero recognition program celebrates employees who go above and beyond in living The Arc’s core values of collaboration, commitment, excellence, generosity, and respect. This quarter, seven outstanding staff members were selected for recognition, each making a meaningful difference in the lives of the individuals and colleagues they support.

Members of The Arc’s senior leadership team piled into a van and traveled from the main office to surprise each recipient at their workplace. With Kool & The Gang’s “Celebration” playing, congratulatory signs held high, and plenty of cheers, the team presented each Arc Hero with a special “Arc Hero” t-shirt and a gift card in recognition of their outstanding contributions.

The latest round of Arc Heroes includes:

• Anabela Kring, Senior Teaching Assistant at Stepping Stones School, received three nominations recognizing her more than 20 years of dedication to students and families. Most recently, Anabela stepped into the role of substitute teacher for the Primary Plus classroom, providing consistency, engaging lessons, and a supportive learning environment during a staffing transition. Her colleagues praised her unwavering commitment, leadership, and positive attitude.
• Jasmin Medina, of Administration Operations, was recognized for her compassion and professionalism during a colleague’s medical emergency. When the colleague experienced anaphylactic shock, Jasmin immediately called 911, provided critical information to emergency responders, and remained by her colleague’s side, offering comfort and reassurance. Her nominator expressed deep gratitude for Jasmin’s actions, writing, “I truly believe Jasmin helped save my life that day.”
• Sakeenah Moses, of the Belleville Group Home, was honored for her steadfast commitment to the individuals she supports. Despite challenging circumstances and time constraints, Sakeenah ensured that residents could attend medical appointments, day programs, work, and Camp Hope, while consistently prioritizing everyone’s safety and well-being.
• Fatmata Sannoh, Lexus Archer, Mary Harris, and Melina Solomon were recognized for their extraordinary response when an individual began choking during lunch at the SYA Day Program. Melina quickly alerted staff and began providing assistance, while Fatmata and Mary joined in administering life-saving measures. Lexus calmly contacted 911, communicated with responding staff, and helped keep everyone informed and reassured. Thanks to their teamwork and quick action, the individual recovered.

These Q3 Arc Heroes represent the very best of The Arc of Essex County, demonstrating how everyday acts of kindness, extraordinary teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to others can make a lasting impact. Congratulations to all of our Q3 Arc Heroes; we are grateful for the many ways you embody The Arc mission and values.

The Arc Hero nominees during the second quarter of 2026 also included:

Fauziyya Allibay-Abdulkadir
Shavonne Ansah
Katria Archie
Hasan Atkinson
Simone Brown
Terrance Cooper
Noreen Eason
Shaniquah Harris
Elmira Ingram
Cecilia Jackson
Michael Jimenez
Matt Kyle
Susan Lenczyk
Avelon Llanos
Dina Meixner
Felicia Minnigan
Sahoy Pryce
Elsie Volcy
Jennifer Washington