New Board Member Profile: Molly Kirkham

This year, The Arc-JCC&GC welcomed Molly Kirkham to its Board of Directors! Molly was elected to the board in June. She has previously been involved with The Arc for years as a self-advocate, including by attending Coffee House gatherings and through People First—a group of self-advocates that The Arc supports. 

“Since I was already involved in People First, it just made sense to join the board,” Molly said. “I wanted to be more involved in the other side of People First and The Arc.” 

As a board member, Molly’s goals include becoming more involved with the community and bringing an important perspective to board conversations.  

“I want to be able to give my perspective of the people of People First, and to have the input as someone who has a disability on the board,” she explained. “The board is very receptive. Because we’re trying to help people with disabilities, for me, it’s that lived experience (that is helpful).” 

Molly hopes that, through her service on the board, she can continue work that is very important to her: changing community perceptions of people with disabilities. She wants others to feel motivated to talk to people with disabilities and ask questions—like what skills a person has, or even simple questions like ‘How’s your day?’ 

Her aim is  “showing people what people can truly do with a disability,” she said. “Because I think a lot of times, they have preconceived ideas of what someone can do. To me, it's all about breaking down the label or stigma.” 

Outside of board service, Molly fills her free time with many hobbies. She loves theater and also enjoys going for walks and writing poetry. 

We are so excited to welcome you to the board, Molly! 

To learn more about board service, click here