On June 5, 2025, Fello released its first-ever podcast, Fello Thinking Differently, a new way for employees and the public to connect with the people, mission, and impact behind the organization. The podcast was inspired by a desire to create more meaningful and accessible ways to engage with Fello’s work and culture. Designed to go beyond what Fello does, Fello Thinking Differently explores the deeper why behind it all.
Honest Conversations That Matter
Casual, candid, and personal – Fello Thinking Differently offers more than just updates. It’s a space where Fello’s leaders talk openly about what drives them, how they approach challenges, and what they’ve learned along the way. These stories bring Fello’s mission to life, helping people connect not just with Fello’s work, but with the people behind it.
Each episode dives into the purpose driving Fello’s programs, services, and housing development work. Leaders share the values and philosophies that shape their decisions and the vision that fuels Fello’s collective work. These behind-the-scenes conversations offer a deeper look into Fello’s culture, priorities, and long-term goals, making it a valuable resource for anyone who is curious about what sets Fello apart.
Episode 1: Featuring Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of Fello
The first episode features Fello’s President & CEO, Jonathon Rondeau, reflecting on the organization’s transition to Fello, the importance of staying true to its mission, and the evolution of services over the past 64 years. He reflected on how the world has evolved and why Fello must continue pushing forward:
“It’s important to think differently because people with disabilities need access and equity to services. Sixty-five years ago, kids with disabilities didn’t have access to education, housing, or other resources. While we’ve made immense changes and created immense opportunities for people with disabilities, we need to think differently about how we help meet their vision of what their life looks like, not what other people think their life should look like.”
Where to Listen
Fello Thinking Differently gives listeners the flexibility to engage on their own time, in their own way.
Fello Thinking Differently is currently available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts, with more episodes coming soon. Subscribe, follow, and join us as we explore what it really means to think differently.
At Fello, we believe honoring a person’s full identity is essential to fostering true inclusion in our communities.
June is Pride Month, and whether you’re a Fello employee or a person we support, we’re committed to creating a place where everyone feels safe, seen, and valued.
At Fello, we encourage every team member to bring their full self to work. We know that people thrive in environments where they don’t have to hide who they are. That’s why we’ve worked hard to build a culture rooted in respect, equity, and acceptance.
A Workplace Where Everyone Belongs
Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives are a thread woven throughout everything we do. From inclusive on-boarding practices to regular satisfaction surveys and employee trainings, we listen, learn, and improve to ensure everyone feels supported.
To be as inclusive as possible for our lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual+ (LGBTQIA+) employees, we are committed to improving our policies, spaces, and offerings.
For example, prioritizing single-stall restrooms in our office spaces allows everyone to feel safe and secure. No one needs to choose how they identify or to wonder how they will be perceived based on the restroom they are using.
Additionally, all of our Total Rewards available to employees’ spouses are also available to employees’ domestic partners.
Family Planning benefits around surrogacy, IVF, and paid leave for adoption are also benefits open to all employees that support LGBTQIA+ employees and their families to grow and thrive.
Our employees are encouraged to not just share their pronouns but let us know whenever they need to be updated, no matter how frequently that might be.
These workplace practices reflect our deeper commitment to inclusion that extends far beyond policies.
Pride Month and Our Mission
Pride Month is more than a celebration—it’s an extension of our mission. At Fello, we remove barriers so everyone can live fully and freely. That includes the freedom to express every part of who they are, including their gender identity and sexual orientation.
We know that people with disabilities often face added discrimination or misunderstanding when they’re part of the LGBTQIA+ community. That’s why we approach support with the whole person in mind.
Our work doesn’t stop with awareness—it’s about action. We offer relationship- and identity-focused trainings for employees and the people we support about making space for understanding our identities, healthy relationships, and self-expression, including sessions led by outside national experts. These trainings help educate employees who support people with disabilities on how to approach topics around self-discovery, relationships, and identity in authentic, helpful ways.
We also empower people to use their chosen names and pronouns, advocate for their personal preferences, and feel safe being open in their homes and communities.
As one Direct Support Professional (DSP) shares: “The relationship training gave me real tools—like how to support someone through tough conversations, recognize unhealthy dynamics, and respect boundaries. It’s helped me be a better DSP, but it’s also made me more thoughtful in my own relationships, too.”
Year-Round Support
Fello’s commitment to inclusion doesn’t stop after June. We offer:
Comprehensive Total Rewards that support mental health and well-being for employees;
Access to Behavioral Health services for people supported by Fello;
A DEI Advisory Committee for employees to engage as thought partners;
Opportunities for regular feedback about Fello’s practices and opportunities for growth.
This Pride Month, we celebrate the courage it takes to live authentically—and we’re proud to walk alongside our community every step of the way.
Looking for more than a job? At Fello, you’ll find purpose, connection, and a community that cares about the people we support and about you.
Fello is where passionate professionals come together to reimagine what’s possible and create more inclusive communities. Whether you’re just starting your journey or growing your career, you’ll find space here to lead with heart and grow with purpose.
If that mission speaks to you, we invite you to join us at ourDirect Support Professional (DSP) Hiring Fair on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, from 11am to 3pm at Fello Severn (1332 Donald Ave., Severn, MD 21144).
This event is your opportunity to meet our team, explore open positions, and find a role that fits your life. We’re hiring for full-time, part-time, and weekend shifts, and you can apply and interview on the spot. Whether you’re new to the field or already have experience, we want to meet you.
What is a DSP?
A Direct Support Professional, or DSP, actively supports people with disabilities to live, work, and connect in the community. This role is about empowerment—helping people live on their own terms, make their own decisions, and pursue the lives they choose.
DSPs help with everything from daily routines to meaningful life experiences. One day you might be helping someone make dinner in their own home, and the next day, supporting them to attend a community event or job training session. At Fello, this work goes far beyond care—it’s about connection, choice, and building inclusive communities.
Why Work at Fello?
When you work for Fello, you’re not just getting a job—you’re joining a supportive team and gaining the tools you need to succeed. We give you the resources and flexibility to do the work you love, with:
Helpful technology to simplify activity tracking and reports;
Company vehicles available for community transportation, so you don’t need to use your own car;
Supportive managers who are there to guide you every step of the way;
Paid training that builds your skills and prepares you for certification;
And, $2/hour weekend differential for shifts worked on Saturdays and Sundays.
Affordable and comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans
100% employer-paid deductible for medical
Free access to on-site urgent and primary care through Health Connection
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for healthcare and dependent care
403(b) retirement plan with 6% employer match, fully vested from day one
12 paid holidays, and more!
Available Roles
We’re currently hiring for multiple DSP roles:
Community Support Assistant
Work in one of our group homes supporting people with daily living skills and helping them pursue independence.
Personal Support Assistant
Support people with disabilities in their own homes, helping them stay connected and confident in their daily lives.
Community Coach
Lead small groups in our Day Program, organizing outings and community-based activities that promote connection.
Learn more about each role Each of these roles has a starting rate of $20.50/hour with the opportunity to grow and earn more through our DSP Career Ladder Program. This program is based on national standards and provides in-depth professional development opportunities with financial incentivesfor DSPs to enhance their skills and knowledge, grow professionally, and support people with disabilities in new, innovative ways.
Join Us on June 3
Mark your calendar and come meet us on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, from 11am to 3pm at Fello Severn. Whether you’re looking for weekday, weekend, full-time, or part-time work, we have a role that could be a perfect fit for you.
We’re excited to meet people who are ready to make a difference. Find out how you can start a rewarding career at Fello—where your work empowers others to live life on their own terms.
In every community, there are stories that speak to the power of belonging—neighbors lending a hand, friends showing up, and people working side by side to build something better for everyone.
That spirit of connection and collective strength has always been at the heart of our work.
For more than six decades, we’ve supported people with disabilities across Maryland—meeting them where they are and walking alongside them every step of the way. What began in 1961 as a grassroots movement led by families has grown into one of Maryland’s most dynamic, person-centered organizations.
Now, we’re excited to share the next chapter in our story: We are Fello.
As of May 21, 2025, Fello has separated from The Arc Maryland and the national Arc network. While our name has changed, our work has not.
Fello is About Community
As we move forward, our purpose remains clear: to champion inclusion, opportunity, and choice for people with disabilities. This next step brings new possibilities, and we’re excited to continue building strong, supportive communities across Maryland.
Fello is About Purpose
At Fello, we believe in the power of individuality and collective strength. We’ve always met people where they are—at home, at work, and in their communities—and helped them get where they want to go. That isn’t changing.
This is not a new beginning; it’s a bold next step. Fello is the natural evolution of our rapid growth—one that gives us greater flexibility to innovate, reach more people, and respond more quickly to the needs of our communities.
As Fello we’ll be going even deeper into the work that matters: removing barriers, championing choice, and creating inclusive communities where everyone has the opportunity to live the life they choose.
Fello is About Belonging
The name Fello is a strong reflection of who we are and what we do as fellow neighbors, fellow citizens, and fellow allies working together toward a shared vision.
Our identity now better reflects the relationships we build, the values we live, and the future we are creating together. At Fello, we believe that equity and inclusion should be the standard, not the exception.
That services should be personal, not prescriptive. And that communities should be shaped by the people who live in them.
Fello is About Impact
We support more than 4,000 people with disabilities across Maryland—meeting them where they are and walking alongside them every step of the way. Our work spans four key areas:
Services Everything we do starts with the person. There is no checklist or standard plan, just real conversations about what matters most to the people we support. From there, we build services that fit their lives, reflect their goals, and grow with them over time. Whether it’s support at home, at work, or in the community, our approach is flexible, responsive, and rooted in belonging.
Self-Directed Services As Maryland’s largest provider of self-directed services, we support over 3,000 participant employers and their more than 8,000 employees. With Self-Directed Services, the person hires the employees that best fit their lives, on their terms and schedule. Fello takes care of the behind-the-scenes details like payroll and paperwork so they can focus on what matters most: living life their way.
Behavioral Health Mental health is a vital part of community inclusion. Our licensed clinicians start by building relationships, recognizing how past experiences shape present behaviors, emotions, and interactions. We believe that behavioral support and mental health services must be integrated, trauma-informed, and person-centered.
Communities As Fello Communities, we develop inclusive, affordable, and accessible housing where people can choose how and where they live. The communities we shape are vibrant, reflecting the lives of the people who live in them. Housing isn’t just a place to live—it’s the foundation for a life of belonging.
Fello is About People
Fello was founded by families who believed their children deserved the same equal rights and opportunities as everyone else, and that belief still drives everything we do.
Today, we employ more than 650 team members, manage nearly 100 housing units, and continue to find innovative ways to support people throughout Maryland.
Our impact isn’t just in numbers—it’s in possibilities created.
We don’t just respond to needs—we anticipate them. We listen, adapt, and stay grounded in community every step of the way.
Together, We Belong
Fello is more than a name. It’s a reflection of who we are: fellow neighbors, fellow advocates, fellow allies—united in a vision for a more inclusive world.
We believe in building communities where no one is left out or left behind. Where systems expand possibilities instead of limiting them. Where support is built on trust, and belonging is the starting point.
So, while our name has changed, our promise has not.
Our annual golf tournament brought big swings and an even bigger impact to the community this year. More than 270 attendees enjoyed beautiful weather, strong community spirit, and excellent courses at Queenstown Harbor Golf with this year’s event raising a record $258,365.
Thanks to our presenting sponsor, Climate Care HVAC, the tournament blended fun and purpose to support our important programs for children and families.
“Every year, this tournament reminds us of the power of community,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO. “Thanks to our sponsors and supporters, we’re not just raising dollars—we’re changing lives.”
Supporting Children, Youth & Their Families
All funds raised go directly to the Children, Youth & Their Families program which helps families access critical resources that support children with disabilities. The program includes:
Direct services to provide children with disabilities with Direct Support Professionals, connection to local resources, and support groups.
Educational resources to help parents and caregivers understand education systems and advocate for their children.
Financial support to cover needs that insurance often doesn’t, like therapies or assistive technology.
This program aims to remove the barriers families face and give children every opportunity to succeed—no matter the circumstances.
Funds raised from the 50/50 raffle went to the Family Fund, a program that provides direct financial help families covering items that insurance will not pay for. This year’s raffle raised a total of $6,105 and the lucky winner generously donated their winnings back to the Family Fund.
“The money raised through this year’s tournament means we can serve more families across the region,” said Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth & Their Families. “It means greater access to services, stronger support systems, and fewer barriers standing between children and the resources they need to thrive.”
Save the Date: May 11, 2026
We’re already looking ahead to next year! Our tournament will return to Queenstown Harbor on May 11, 2026. This is an event that sells out every year, so mark your calendars and don’t miss your chance to play for a cause and support local families.
We’ve got exciting news: we are taking a major step forward—a step that allows us to go even deeper into our mission and serve the unmet needs of more people in our community.
As of today, May 21, 2025, The Arc Central Chesapeake Region has separated from The Arc Maryland and the national Arc network and will continue to serve the community under our new name, Fello.
This isn’t just a rebrand. It’s a reflection of who we are, how far we’ve come, and where we’re headed. While our name has changed, our commitment remains the same: to champion inclusion, opportunity, and choice for people with disabilities in Maryland.
Fello is About Purpose
We were founded in 1961 by families who believed their children deserved the same equal rights and opportunities as everyone else, and that belief still drives everything we do today.
The name Fello speaks directly to that foundation. It’s about being fellow neighbors, fellow citizens, fellow advocates, and fellow allies working together toward a shared vision.
At Fello, we believe in the power of connection. Of individuality. Of a collective strength. Because when we stand together with purpose and resolve, nothing is impossible.
Fello is About People
Nothing is changing about the services you know and trust. We’re still here, doing the work with the same passion and purpose—just under a name that better reflects the heart behind it.
This transition will only strengthen our ability to be the innovative, person-centered organization you know us to be.
“The people we support are at the center of everything we do—and that will never change,” says Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of Fello. “This name reflects how we show up as allies, working side by side to build communities that are equitable, accessible, and fully inclusive.”
Fello is About Impact
Our work continues to include:
Services that meet people where they are and grow with them over time.
Self-Directed Services that support over 3,000 participants and more than 8,000 employees across Maryland.
Behavioral Health Services that are trauma-informed, person-centered, and led by licensed clinicians.
Inclusive housing and community development through Fello Communities—our unified housing and community development initiative (formerly Chesapeake Neighbors and Chesapeake Community Development).
Fello is the Future
Fello is more than a new name—it’s a promise to keep showing up for our community.
We are proud of all we accomplished over the last 64 years, and this name change gives us more flexibility to continue to innovate and respond quickly to the evolving needs of our community while staying rooted in the same mission and values we’ve held since the beginning.
Today, Fello supports over 4,000 people across Maryland, employs nearly 650 team members, and manages close to 100 housing units across 43 properties throughout Anne Arundel County and the Eastern Shore.
“We’re building a future where equity and inclusion are the norm, where housing and services go hand-in-hand, and people have the support they need to live life on their own terms,” Rondeau says. “That’s what Fello is all about.”
Together, We Are Fello
We may have a new name, but our purpose hasn’t changed.
We’re still here. Still leading. Still building inclusive communities—together.
The Arc’s Family Fund provides critical financial support in the form of small grants to local families with children who have intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This year, the Family Fund granted a record-breaking $113,600 in funding to 96 families—our largest distribution to date.
What is The Family Fund?
The Family Fund is a grant program established by The Arc in 2017, designed to provide access to financial assistance and essential resources to families navigating the complexities of raising children with IDD. Many of the effective resources, therapies, and services make an incredible difference in the quality of life for children with IDD, but they are not covered by insurance and are out of reach financially for the families who need access to them the most.
Grants from the Family Fund cover a range of resources that improve quality of life, including respite care, assistive technology, medical equipment, therapeutic services, and inclusive recreational activities and camps.
The Family Fund is made possible through generous donations, grants, and community partnerships. By easing the financial burden on families, the Family Fund ensures that children with disabilities can be a part of their communities with the support they need and deserve.
The Fund’s Impact in 2025
Since its founding, the Family Fund has awarded $382,000 in grants to hundreds of children with IDD, including funding specifically for children with autism through a partnership with The Bowen Foundation for Autism. Each year, the Family Fund expands its reach and serves more families with more funding, reflecting both the growing needs within our communities and the generosity of those who support this vital program.
This year, the Family Fund awarded 62 fully funded grants and 34 partially funded grants, ensuring that children with disabilities have the resources they need to grow, learn, and thrive. These grants provide access to essential communication tools, specialized therapies, and inclusive recreational experiences, allowing children to develop crucial skills, build confidence, and participate in activities like summer camp alongside their peers.
“Each application is carefully reviewed by a committee consisting of employees from across The Arc’s enterprise. We consider the details of each application and make award decisions based on the life-changing impact we anticipate the grant funding would have on the child and their family,” said Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth, & Their Families. “Our goal is to ensure that every dollar awarded directly enhances a child’s ability to communicate, grow, and participate fully in their community. Whether it’s funding for therapy, assistive technology, or camp experiences, these grants open doors that might otherwise remain closed.”
Top requests this year included specialized therapies and IDD-focused summer camps, highlighting the ongoing demand for both structured developmental support and inclusive recreational opportunities. “The impact of these funds goes beyond financial assistance—it provides opportunity and inclusion for so many families,” said Caroline Slobodzian, Director of Development. ” These grants bridge critical gaps in care and services, offering children with disabilities enriching experiences to support their growth and development. We are grateful to everyone who contributed to the $113,600 raised and made this possible.”
Support the Family Fund Through Our 50/50 Raffle
While funds for the 2025 grant cycle have been distributed, the need for support doesn’t end there. The Arc continues to raise money for the fund year-round, as the demand for these life-changing resources is ongoing and ever-present.
In conjunction with our annual golf tournament, “Tee It Up for The Arc,” we hold a 50/50 raffle benefiting the Family Fund. You can support the Family Fund by participating in The Arc’s 50/50 raffle! With your entry, you not only get a chance to win a cash prize, but you also help provide life-changing resources for families in your community. All funds raised from the raffle go directly to the Family Fund.
We are proud to share that Ross Benincasa, Senior Vice President of Community Development, and Brandy Stephens, Vice President of People & Culture, have been named 2025 New Leaders Honorees by Leadership Anne Arundel (LAA). This honor recognizes professionals who have recently stepped into new leadership roles and demonstrate outstanding leadership, vision, and commitment to the Anne Arundel County community.
As part of this recognition, Ross and Brandy will be honored at the New Leaders Breakfast Celebration on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at Carrol’s Creek Café in Annapolis.
“Ross and Brandy are exceptional leaders whose work supports our teams and communities to evolve and thrive,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of The Arc. “Through their bold leadership, dedication to our mission, and expertise in their fields, they create profound impacts in hundreds of lives across Anne Arundel County.”
Ross leads strategic community development projects that advance inclusive housing and development across the region. Since joining The Arc’s enterprise in 2024, Ross has played a key role in the rapid growth of the organization by identifying development opportunities, securing property acquisitions, and fostering strong community partnerships.
Brandy is a dynamic leader who fosters a culture of appreciation and connection across The Arc’s enterprise. Since joining in 2023, Brandy has launched key initiatives like the Direct Support Professional Career Ladder and consistently works to enhance the employee experience. Her leadership is grounded in supporting organizational development, championing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and empowering employees to lead with authenticity.
Ross and Brandy join leaders from every sector who are actively shaping the future of Anne Arundel County through innovative programs, strategic development, and collaborative partnerships.
About Leadership Anne Arundel
Since 1993, Leadership Anne Arundel (LAA) has served as the nexus of leadership in Anne Arundel County as a professional development and networking program for the county’s most impactful leaders. LAA facilitates opportunities for diverse leaders from for-profit, nonprofit, governmental, and community organizations to come together and gain the education, resources, and networks necessary to become the strategic, forward-thinking leaders their communities need. Learn more about LAA at www.leadershipaa.org.
The Arc is pleased to announce that Cody Skacan has joined the enterprise as the Vice President of Strategy. In this role, Cody will lead the implementation of The Arc’s strategic plan and growth initiatives, ensuring alignment with the enterprise’s mission and long-term vision. He joins The Arc at a key moment as it continues to expand its impact and services throughout the region.
Cody brings nearly a decade of leadership experience in strategy, program development, and organizational growth. He joins The Arc from Elevance Inc., where he held key leadership roles and spearheaded large-scale initiatives in mergers and acquisitions, stakeholder engagement, and team leadership. Cody’s expertise in executing complex programs while fostering collaboration and innovation will help him to drive The Arc’s strategic objectives forward.
“We are excited to welcome Cody to The Arc and look forward to the expertise and leadership he brings,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of The Arc. “His strategic mindset, ability to build strong partnerships, and deep commitment to fostering meaningful change will be important as The Arc continues to grow to meet the needs of the people and communities around us.”
As Vice President of Strategy, Cody will work closely with leadership to align enterprise priorities, drive expansion efforts, and facilitate high-level initiatives that enhance The Arc’s reach and impact. He will play a critical role in fostering collaboration across departments to ensure forward momentum in advancing inclusion, equity, and opportunity for people with disabilities and the community.
Cody holds a Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Management from Western Governors University and a Bachelor of Science in Management and Marketing from Salisbury University.
On Monday, May 12, 2025, Tee It Up for The Arc will return to Queenstown Harbor in Queenstown, MD. This annual golf tournament is more than just a day on the greens; it’s an opportunity to support children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families while enjoying a premier golf experience. With breathtaking waterfront views, top-tier hospitality, and an incredible after-party, Tee It Up for The Arc is an event you won’t want to miss.
Registration for the tournament includes breakfast, lunch, unlimited drinks throughout the day, exciting activities on the course, and a ticket to our highly anticipated after-party. The after-party will feature delicious local food, craft beverages, live music by the Timmie Metz Band, and the much-anticipated 50/50 raffle drawing.
Making an Impact Beyond The Course
Tee It Up for The Arc is celebrating its 27th tournament this year and has seen remarkable growth in recent years, raising over $225,000 last year. The tournament’s evolution has been driven by passionate leadership and unwavering community support.
“Tee It Up for The Arc has grown so much in recent years,” said Ben Harries, Past Tournament Chair. “We expanded to Queenstown Harbor and have consistently sold out both courses year after year. The demand and enthusiasm from our community has been incredible, and it directly impacts the lives of so many children and families.”
All proceeds from Tee It Up for The Arc benefit The Arc’s Children, Youth, & Their Families program, which ensures that children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) have access to resources, support, and opportunities that empower them. Funds raised from the tournament directly support the program’s key initiatives and infrastructure, including Project Learn and Family Navigation.
“This event is about more than golf—it’s about making a difference,” said Steve Smollon, Tournament Chair. “Every year, we see firsthand how the funds raised through Tee It Up for The Arc provide life-changing support to children with disabilities and their families. Whether it’s helping a child access critical therapies, ensuring a family gets the advocacy they need, or bringing joy during the holidays, the impact is real. That’s what keeps us coming back, seeing the tangible impact on families and knowing that each sponsorship and donation contributes to building a stronger, more inclusive future.”
Opportunities to Support Tee It Up for The Arc
Last year’s tournament saw a sold-out event with 72 foursomes and a waitlist of eager participants. Tee It Up for The Arc consistently sells out, and this year is no exception, with only a handful of foursomes remaining.
If you are interested in sponsoring or golfing in this year’s tournament, email events@thearcccr.org. Foursomes are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis.
If you’re not able to golf, you can still support the tournament by joining The Arc for the after-party or purchasing a 50/50 raffle ticket. All proceeds from the raffle go directly to the Family Fund.
