Marc Center Administration oversees the operations of all of Marc Center’s services, providing critical supports that enable our departments to respond in a timely manner to the provision of critical services. As we review our progress and program growth since our incorporation in 1957, it becomes evident to us that Marc Center’s legacy was set forth by the vision of our founding families. Nine families shared a vision in 1957 which has culminated in the development of children’s services, employment related programs, community living programs, family support services and behavioral health programs, today serving over 3,600 children and adults with an operating budget in excess of $22 million. Administratively this requires state-of-the-art information technology, business development initiatives and, most importantly, dedicated staff to oversee our programs.
We are dedicated to capital campaign drives and fundraising initiatives that allow us to retire debt service on all of our group homes, day program sites and physical structures. This approach reaffirms one of our basic core values; avoiding debt ensures that every dollar possible can be directed towards providing services to children and adults. Marc Center has recently completed one capital campaign raising $4.2 million for the construction of a state-of-the-art day treatment and training facility serving people with severe disabilities. We are now embarking on another capital campaign to raise $5 million towards the construction of a 34,000 square foot vocational training facility to serve 500 adults and students transitioning from the public school system. To date we have raised $2.5 million. Construction will begin in May 2007 and will be completed by May of 2008. I am pleased to report that the Mesa City Council has titled the property at 924 North Country Club Drive to Marc Center and the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors has approved the transfer of title of approximately three acres of the Freestone Rehabilitation Center/Oasis Park to Marc Center. Again, these property acquisitions enhance our corporate worth and allow us to direct contributions and service dollars towards persons being served.
Let me conclude with an acknowledgement of our core values. We recognize the worth dignity and rights of all people. We believe that people with disabilities are people first. We believe that everyone, regardless of disability, has the right of informed choice. And, finally, we value families as best able to meet the needs of their children. Our administrative offices are here to support the direct service departments. Please feel free to contact Randy Gray, President & CEO or Pat Gilbert, Chief Administrative Officer to arrange a tour, presentation or just to answer any questions you may have. |