Department of Human Services secretary visits The Arc of Washington County
Paul Paterra/Observer-Reporter
Dr.Val Arkoosh, state Department of Human Services Secretary, got a first-hand look Wednesday at a Canonsburg social service organization served by the department.
The Arc of Washington, a nonprofit which provides services and support for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, is one of the many organizations across Pennsylvania that is funded by the DHS.
“It’s very important to meet the people we serve, to have a chance to listen to them, to learn how we can do our job better,” Arkoosh said. “There’s no way that any of us in a leadership position can just sit in Harrisburg or anywhere else and pretend that we know exactly what’s happening on the ground.”
This year’s state budget included $354.8 million for home- and community-based services for Pennsylvanians with intellectual disability and autism (ID/A) and the direct support professionals who care for them. Part of the funding – $280 million – went toward raising wages for the direct support professionals.
“There’s nothing more important in taking care of people with disabilities than having really good long-term staff to take care of them,” said Edward Picchiarini, CEO of ARC Human Services. “It’s really just nice to see everybody working together to support the lowest paid people in the system, who are the most important people in the system to families and to the individuals with disabilities.
During her visit, Arkoosh took time to view The Arc’s art gallery, which opened in 2022. The gallery displays works from artists of all abilities.
“I’m just so honored to have the opportunity to see it with my own eyes and have a moment to take in all this gorgeous art,” she said.
Arkoosh said the display spoke volumes about how those who work at The Arc approach their jobs.
“They are really providing very person-centered care. If a person has the ability to be artistic and do that kind of work, they cultivate that skill. It’s really all about making sure that people can live their everyday life. It’s just all about helping people achieve their best possible life and follow their passions just as anybody would,” she said.