Northeast Arc, a not-for-profit organization that helps children and adults with disabilities and autism become full participants in the community, has elected Michael Christian to its board of directors.
Christian is the Board President of Someone Else’s Child, Inc., a position he has held for nearly 25 years. The foundation supports youth causes throughout the U.S., Africa, and Central America with areas of emphasis including education, the arts, youth living with disabilities, economic justice, and collective action efforts. He is also the Managing Partner for Community Impact Ventures (CIV), a venture capital impact fund that provides financial support to social entrepreneurs and for-profit companies that have missions similar to that of Someone Else’s Child.
CIV invests in early-stage firms creating a meaningful social impact. “We’ve known Northeast Arc for several years and financially supported the launch of its innovative Pathways to Opportunities program,” said Christian. “It is one of the most impactful initiatives we have supported. Everyone at Northeast Arc is dedicated to and focused on the mission. They are devoted to the people they serve, and I look forward to contributing as a board member for this outstanding organization.”
“Mike’s strategic insight and prior involvement with nonprofit boards will bring new relationships and opportunities for collaboration as Northeast Arc continues to pursue cross-sector partnerships that advance our mission,” said Heidi Ellard, board chair. “Additionally, his risk management background will support the board in identifying challenges and opportunities brought on by the uncertain environment for disability services, as well as ways to gain efficiencies and implement industry best practices across all of our service areas.”
Northeast Arc changes lives for people with disabilities — and children at risk of developing them — and their families. The agency, which opened the Center for Linking Lives at Liberty Tree Mall in Danvers in 2020, serves thousands of people in nearly 200 Massachusetts cities and towns each year.
Northeast Arc is the largest Arc in the state of Massachusetts and one of the largest in the country. They offer services including early intervention, autism services, family services, community employment, long-term support services, residential and living supports, and clinical services.
Learn more at www.ne-arc.org.
