This is a question that I would ask each and every one of you, hoping you will respond to tell us how we are doing. What can The Arc Mower County do better?

More importantly, what does our organization need to do that we are not doing? When you take a look at all of the things The Arc is doing for our community, what are the needs that are not being met?

What we are looking for are issues that you as an individual with an intellectual and developmental disability, or family member, face on a daily basis.

What are the top five items that you see which should be the major focus of The Arc to be addressing in the community? If you could give us a clear picture within our community of these top issues you face on a daily basis, we can start to put together a plan of action to address these.

Please take a couple of minutes and send me an email, write a letter, call or come visit me and let me know what is most important to you. I look forward to hearing from you and together we can make a difference.

The Arc Mower County needs your support

Applebee’s will donate 15 percent of your check to The Arc Mower County when you dine at Applebee’s in Austin from 4 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 19. Fliers are available at The Arc office or online at www.thearcmc.org.

The Arc in the Park picnic

Friends and families of The Arc Mower County will gather for an afternoon of fun from 1 to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 23, at Todd Park at the northwest pavilion. Picnic goers enjoy a delicious meal, activities and the opportunity to meet with friends, old and new. This event is for families who have children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The picnic is free for members and non-members of The Arc. Registration deadline is Wednesday, Aug. 20.