Terry M. Bellamy — Asheville's mayor — has recently taken the position as the Executive Director of The Arc of Buncombe County, which is a local nonprofit organization that provides services to individuals and families with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. The Arc achieves its mission by helping clients and families realize their highest potential through advocacy, education, programming and family support. The Arc’s clients have all been diagnosed as having mild, moderate, or profound intellectual disabilities. The majority of clients suffer from Down-Syndrome, Autism, Prader-Willie Syndrome, Chromosome Disorder, Angleman Syndrome, and/or Rett X Link Neuro Development.

Bellamy brings over twelve years of non-profit experience and over eleven years of leadership experience in the Asheville community. In the past 13 years, she has worked at two local non-profit organizations where she successfully supported and furthered their missions. “Terry Bellamy comes to The Arc with a wealth of experience and knowledge that will assist in bringing attention to the needs of people with disabilities,” said volunteer Board President, Oscar Wong. “Our board of directors wanted a person who could help us assist more clients and carry out our vision of a stronger organization, and we believe that Bellamy is the person to accomplish that with us.”

The local chapter of The Arc has existed in the community since 1957 and was formed by a group of volunteers concerned with the lack of programs for children with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. “Bellamy’s experience with volunteer recruitment, special events and collaborations will help enrich the opportunities afforded our clients and volunteers,” said Board Treasurer, Robert Roth.

For information on how you can get involved with The Arc of Buncombe County, please call 828-253-1255 or e-mail – arc@arcofbuncombe.org.
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