In November, nearly 600 human services professionals and advocates from Arc chapters across the country gathered in Charlotte for The Arc National Convention. Of course Incompass Human Services was represented, with agency leaders playing a prominent role over the course of the three-day event.
Incompass Opens the Convention With an AI-Focused Presentation
Incompass COO Gillian Feld and CMO Dan Esdale kicked off the convention as the very first presenters, leading a well-attended session on how Incompass is exploring artificial intelligence (AI) to empower staff and promote efficiency. Their session showcased how Incompass is adopting AI technologies to enhance communication, create marketing tools, and enhance data-driven operations, while emphasizing that the agency’s person-centered mission remains at the forefront of every decision.
Gillian and Dan highlighted use cases, staff training approaches, and the ethical framework guiding Incompass’ AI journey. Their presentation emphasized the guardrails that they have put in place, including an AI policy and restrictions on usage, to ensure that the tools are used appropriately and don’t replace the person-to-person nature of our work.
CEO Jean Phelps Presides at the National Awards Luncheon
Jean, who serves on The Arc of the U.S. Board of Directors and as Chair of The Arc’s National Conference of Executives, played a key leadership role throughout the week. A member of the event planning committee, she was integral in putting together a forward-thinking conference agenda. During the convention’s Awards Luncheon, Jean presided over the ceremony and offered heartfelt recognition of all honorees, celebrating their collective contributions to the mission of The Arc.
Massachusetts Shows Up in Force
Massachusetts boasted a strong presence in Charlotte, with a large contingent of attendees and several presenters from Arc chapters across the Commonwealth. Local leaders contributed to sessions on engaging youth in our work, fundraising, and community engagement, reinforcing the state’s impact on the national human services landscape. Among those chapters in attendance was Incompass affiliate The Arc of Opportunity, based in Fitchburg, MA.
Throughout the convention, attendees reflected on The Arc’s 75-year history, celebrating milestones in advocacy, rights expansion, and community inclusion. While we have much work to do, the energy in Charlotte recognized how far we have come and the transformative work ahead of us to ensure the individuals we serve live full and happy lives.