The Arc of Northern Virginia, an affiliate of the national organization, was founded in May, 1962 by a group of concerned parents. We have spawned a national movement that has led to services where there were none, legal protections recognizing our human rights, and feelings of pride and dignity instead of shame. Clearly, our struggle is ongoing, but we have come a long way. The Arc of Northern Virginia is known as the leader in providing effective advocacy and indispensable direct services for families, children and adults living with intellectual and developmental disabilities to enable full, welcoming community participation.

Nancy Mercer, Executive Director— Nancy is a licensed clinical social worker with twenty years of experience working with children, adults and families living with lifelong disabilities, in both private, non-profit settings as well as the public school system. Nancy focuses on building community accessibility through advocacy, resource development and providing support/leadership for The Arc of Northern Virginia’s membership, staff, volunteers and its Board.

George Edwards, Client Advocate— George has been a Client Advocate of The Arc of Northern VA for 12 years since June of 1996. George Edwards brings years of experience to The Arc Of Northern VA. As a former staff member of the personal support network George was referred to as the companion's companion-meaning that he understands the importance of taking care of people in the community as well as taking care of the caregivers.

Elaine Eisenbaum, Director of Advocacy and Operations— Elaine joined the Arc of Northern Virginia team in September, 2009. For the past 10+ years Elaine has been a friend of and an advocate for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She pursued an educational path that reflects her passion; an undergraduate degree from the University of Texas at Austin in Special Education and an MSW degree from Washington University in St. Louis. Prior to arriving at T he Arc, Elaine was the Program Director for L’Arche in Arlington.

Jill Egle, Leadership Intern/Co-Executive Director— Jill Erin Egle has worked for the Arc of Northern VA for approximately five years. She started as a Administrative Assistant working part time hourly position at the front desk when she was introduced to self advocacy. After a successful year of self advocacy Jill Egle was promoted Leadership Intern Co-Executive Director in 2007. I get paid salary income and I get all the comp time and benefits. My focus goals is to get rid of the R word increase The Arc’s membership and fundraising special events.

Lisa Fong, Client Advocate— Lisa has a B.A. in English Literature and a M.S. in Human Development and Family Studies. She currently provides services under the DD Waiver and Guardianship programs.

Lynn Ruiz Director of Community Relations— Lynn is a parent of a teenager with a disability and brings her background in fine arts, graphics and a parent perspective to The Arc. She also has a background in early childhood programs. Lynn focuses on our community, membership, donations, and volunteer relations.

Tia Marsili, Director of Projects and Community Navigation— Tia is responsible for assessing information and providing it to families, community members and agencies, enabling people to make informed choices regarding their particular needs, and the services that might be helpful to them. Tia is also responsible for the website, the durable medical goods recycling project and our new information and resource section of the website. Tia has a degree in sinology, an international background and has worked as a child advocate for 15 years.