At a delightful dinner last Monday evening at the Quail Valley River Club, The Arc of Indian River County honored the Replogle family for all it has done for the organization. Mary Ellen Replogle was joined at the event by sons Charlie and John, and grandsons Joey and Cole.
While recognizing the contributions of the entire family, special tribute was paid to Mary Ellen Replogle who, like Columbus, “discovered new worlds” in 1975 as a founder of the organization, which is dedicated to individuals with special needs.
Friends and supporters enjoyed cocktails and the setting sun by the poolside tiki bar before moving indoors for dinner, presentations and dancing to music by talented vocalists, Tony and Holly.
“Some 40 years ago, Mary Ellen had a vision for Arc, and it was a vision born out of a mother’s love,” said Arc board member Mary Beth Vallar. “But it wasn’t just love for her own son, but for all children born in Indian River County with special needs, so they could grow up and flourish, reach their potential and lead a meaningful life.”
Replogle has assumed a variety of leadership positions over the years and, as Director Emeritus, continues to attend every meeting. Additionally, more than $162,000 has been gifted to the organization by the Replogle family since 1982 through Ocean Grill Night, the second Tuesday in May.
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you so very much for your years of service to our organization,” said Arc Executive Director Chuck Bradley. “You’ve helped us to grow the organization to serve 180 folks in our community that need our services each and every day, and to get ourselves on track to open our first group home this November.”
“This is a wonderful evening for all of us,” said Mary Ellen Replogle. “We are so grateful that all of you people are here to celebrate with us.”
In their honor, The Arc started a new tradition with the presentation of the first Replogle Family Award to Harry Largey and wife Dorothy, for his dedicated leadership as a long-term board member and chairman of the finance committee.
“It’s my pleasure to be here and my pleasure to serve,” said Largey in accepting the award.
Introducing Justin Isaac, a Vero Beach High School senior and the newest member of The Arc’s Advocacy Committee, Bradley said, “His story is what we’re all about.”
With poise, passion and wit, Isaac spoke about his remarkable life, born as a triplet with pulmonary hypertension and Down Syndrome. That he survived his early years was due to both his tenacity and medical miracles.
“I have had to work hard to overcome obstacles,” said Justin, today a National Honor Society student and Special Olympian who enjoys downhill skiing and other sports.
But he said his thoughts of the future are clouded, as are those of other special-needs individuals, by the difficulties he will soon face when seeking employment and housing.
“The statistics in Vero Beach are really staggering,” said Justin of the number of people affected by Down Syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism and other developmental and traumatic brain disabilities. “That’s why we need your help here at The Arc. We want to improve our programs. There is so much more to do to help your friends and neighbors at The Arc to lead meaningful lives.”
“Tonight’s enthusiastic crowd is a positive indication that our community is interested in Arc’s growth,” said Mary Ellen Replogle. “With this type of loyal support Arc can continue to offer opportunities and services to our handicapped citizens.”
