The Arc of Calhoun County is excited to announce the recent transition of the role of Board President from J.R. Reynolds to Chuck Asher. We are grateful for the leadership and passion for activism both leaders have contributed to The Arc.
Reynolds served on the board for several years before stepping into the role of Board President in 2023. His leadership provided consistency during a time of transition between Executive Directors.
“[Reynolds] took an incredibly supportive role in onboarding me," said Clare Tanner, our Executive Director. "He is every Executive Director's ideal Board President: always available, always willing to contribute both labor and funds, providing active consultation and thought partnership while supporting the Director's decision-making.”
Throughout his tenure, Reynolds worked closely with Tanner and the organization's dedicated staff to champion the vision of a community where every person, regardless of their ability, is respected, accepted, and empowered to actively and meaningfully contribute.
“The Arc has been and will endure as a beacon of possibility and hope across Calhoun County for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” said Reynolds about the lasting impact of the organization. “Staff works tirelessly to promote a vision in which every person, no matter their ability, can actively and meaningfully contribute to the community. This speaks to respect, acceptance and inclusion of everyone.”
As he passes the baton, Reynolds expresses strong confidence that this shared vision will continue to thrive under his successor. He believes Asher possesses the perfect blend of skills and dedication to guide the organization into its next chapter.
“As incoming President, Chuck checks all the boxes, in terms of what’s needed in a board President, from his expertise in administration to his deep community experience," Reynolds said. "My advice to him would be to continue as he always has in leading with a purpose and compassion that centers the needs of the staff as they carry out the board’s vision of The Arc."
Asher has served on the board since May 2024, and brings his own deep community experience to the role, driven by a strong alignment with the organization's core values of inclusion, dignity, and acceptance.
“Joining the Board gave me an opportunity to support an organization that is making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families throughout Calhoun County," said Asher. "As Board President, I look forward to helping expand awareness of The Arc's work, strengthening community partnerships, and ensuring that individuals with disabilities have every opportunity to participate fully in community life.”
Tanner shares this enthusiasm for the future, and is confident that Asher’s professional background and passion make him the perfect person to lead the board in its next chapter.
"Chuck has deep knowledge of Calhoun County, a long history of public service and experience in managing non-profit organizations," Tanner said. "One consolation of having to say goodbye to J.R. is the privilege and joy of working with Chuck! Like J.R., Chuck is a widely admired and dedicated community servant and advocate for inclusion of all people."
While Asher is stepping into this key role to continue a legacy of advocacy, Tanner highlights that the organization's ongoing impact requires a dedicated team. She notes that a diverse leadership group is vital to fulfilling their mission.
“As a nonprofit organization, the Arc's purpose is to meet the needs of our community in a way that is most responsive to those who live with disability and stewards public and donated resources responsibly. Diverse board members provide multiple perspectives, connections, and expertise to ensure we are successful," Tanner said.
The Arc of Calhoun County is currently looking for more individuals to join their board, specifically those with experience navigating the special education system for family members. If you have an interest in Board of committee service, please contact us at (269) 966-2575.