Connecticut Sun to partner with county's Arc group

The Connecticut Sun organization and The Arc of New London County on Monday announced a new partnership to boost public awareness of disability issues and to advocate for full inclusion of those with intellectual and related disabilities.

Chris Sienko, the Sun's vice president and general manager, welcomed the new long-term partnership with the Norwich-based Arc organization. "It gives people with disabilities a better chance to lead productive and happy lives," he said in a prepared statement.

The Arc, located at 125 Sachem St. in Norwich, was founded in 1952 by parents of children with intellectual disabilities in New London County. The agency serves those with intellectual and related development disabilities.

Kathleen Stauffer, executive director of the Arc who announced the partnership, said that "success in the face of obstacles" is familiar to both organizations. "Now - together - we can celebrate progress. The Sun's support is heartfelt in its underscoring of community inclusion," she said.

To kick off the new partnership between the basketball team and the Arc of New London County, Connecticut Sun players will do a "meet and greet" with visitors from 7 to 10 p.m. at The Arc's 3rd Annual Pirate Party Fundraiser on Saturday, April 24, at the Mystic Arts Center. In addition, the Sun organization will provide memorabilia for the party's silent auction.

Tickets for the annual Pirate Party fundraiser can be found at www.thearcnlc.org. The proceeds from the annual fundraiser benefit camp, recreation and respite opportunities for families.

Also as part of the new partnership, the Arc group will seek to raise awareness of disability issues at an upcoming "Arc Night" that will be hosted by the Connecticut Sun.