The Southernmost Point
By Maria Angeles LinaresOn May 25, before the sun rose, three APD colleagues made their way south to Key West. It was a long drive, four hours one-way, but each of us had a task to complete. Cary Dashiff, Paul Budney, and I were on our way to visit our sole provider in Monroe County, the Monroe Association of ReMARCable Citizens (MARC), to conduct group home monitoring, QSIs, and consumer wellness checks.
With locations in Key West and Tavernier, MARC is a one-stop shop of services. Established in 1966, they operate and provide the following services: adult day training, LTRC at the two group homes, supported employment, respite, transportation, supported living, and companion services. In addition to working in the community, many of the APD consumers work at the Rainbow Café and Plant Nursery, both located at MARC.
This was my first visit to MARC. I was excited because I had heard so many things about MARC already. Executive Director Diana Flenard very graciously gave me a tour of the facility and introduced me to many of our consumers who were busy at their daily tasks. It was a hive of activity. The café was bustling setting up and getting ready for lunch. The nursery was in full swing, watering, potting, and repotting the many wonderful plants that are on sale to the public. I couldn’t resist and brought home an orchid.
Despite the challenges of running an operation like MARC in a tropical tourist driven setting, MARC makes it work. Our customers are happy, healthy, and thriving in their community.
Our tasks completed and stomachs grumbling with hunger, we said our good-byes. Off we went in search of lunch before hitting the road again, northbound to the mainland. It had been a great day for all.
In addition to working in the community, many of the APD consumers work at the Rainbow Café and Plant Nursery, both located at MARC.
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