Chrissy Thornton

For over 75 years, The Arc Baltimore has been a lifeline for families, fighting for a world where every person with a disability is valued. Our story began in a not-so-distant past when children with intellectual and developmental disabilities were often separated from their families and communities. But even in those dark times, hope flickered in the hearts of parents who refused to accept a life of isolation for their children.

In 1950, four sets of parents gathered in a Baltimore kitchen and dared to dream bigger. They envisioned a community that embraced their children, creating a grassroots movement that grew into The Arc Baltimore—a powerful force for change that replaced an old narrative with one of endless possibility.

Today’s children are growing up in a different world, where inclusion is the expectation, not the exception. Because of the courage of those who came before, they can dream freely of college, careers, and homes of their own. Still, our work is not finished. We must ensure every child, adult, and family continues to have the support and opportunities they need not just to survive, but to thrive.

Your generosity makes this possible. By making a gift, you directly support the vital services we provide, carrying the vision of those founding parents forward and ensuring a future where all people are valued, their voices are heard, and their impact is felt.

My journey with The Arc Baltimore began years ago, not in a boardroom, but out in the field. Fresh out of school, I started my career as a Policing Supervisor in The Arc’s Landscape Department, working on a contract with the Maryland Transit Administration. It wasn’t just a job - it was like family. I witnessed the joy of job training, the dignity of work, and the power of being part of a team where every person, regardless of ability, was valued and respected. That experience shaped me in profound ways, and it taught me that opportunity and justice are not lofty ideals, but everyday practices that change lives.

Since then, my professional path has taken me deep into advocacy - always fighting to ensure people, especially those too often overlooked, have the resources, rights, and recognition they deserve. The Arc Baltimore has never been far from my heart. Today, I am humbled to serve full circle as a member of its Board of Directors, weaving my commitment to equity, access, and justice into the mission of advocating for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The Arc Baltimore opens doors: to jobs, to education, to independence, to belonging. It ensures that people with disabilities are not only included, but celebrated as essential members of our community.

I invite you to join me in this mission. Your gift will help The Arc continue to secure resources, create opportunities, and build a freer, more just world for all. Together, we can ensure that every person has the chance to live, work, and thrive with dignity.