Return of local establishment to present new avenues for Madera
A groundbreaking ceremony was held for the Heartland Opportunity Center on Oct. 19, 2022. Almost four years later, a grand, grand opening of the new Center was finally unveiled.
Tamica Hill, Executive Director for The Arc, Fresno/Madera Counties gave a warm welcome to all who attended the long-awaited celebration on June 26.
“Today is more than an opening of a building,” she said. “It is a celebration of our history, our community, and the opportunity that lies ahead. We are especially proud to honor Madera and our deep roots here. Returning of Heartland Opportunity Center, this name reflects a legacy of service, individuals, family, opportunity, belonging, and growth for generations.”
Hill continued with a reinforcement of their commitments to providing opportunities for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities to pursue their goals, build meaningful connections, and live lives with purpose.
“This new facility reflects that commitment and our belief that every person deserves the opportunity to thrive,” she said. “None of this is possible without collaboration and the support of this incredible community. Madera has welcomed and supported Heartland Opportunity Center for generations, and we are grateful for that partnership that continues to make our work possible.”
In front of the building, just before the Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting ceremony, several presentations and congratulations were given by dignitaries and other members of the community.
After the ribbon was cut, the front doors were open for attendees to walk through the building to attend another presentation in a large tent.
Senator Anna Caballero, representing the 14th Senate District, gave a speech recognizing the ARC of Fresno and Madera Counties, and the great progress it has made throughout the years.
“It was a privilege to recognize The Arc of Fresno/Madera Counties as the 2024 Nonprofit of the Year for the Senate District,” she said. “Today, it brings me real joy to be able to join the community in celebration of the long-awaited Heartland Opportunity Center Grand Opening, and I want to thank The Arc of Fresno/Madera Counties Executive Director, Tamica Hill.”
Caballero spoke of how Hill had impressed her with her organization and inspirational skills, and explained that it was the reason she recognized Hill and the organization two years ago on the floor of the Senate. Caballero could see the potential.
“Anything we can do to create opportunities for people to be successful is really, really important. And having a place you can be proud of that can represent the community and it’s welcoming is really, really critically important,” Caballero said. “The Arc provides a valuable service for our community and enhances the livelihoods of individuals with intellectual and developmental abilities. Additionally, since its founding in 1973, the Heartland Opportunity Center has also served as a pillar of support for many families in Madera and really across the valley. Now, with this new beautiful facility, they will be able to continue to invest in the dignity and inclusion of the people that they serve. Today’s celebration shows what can happen when communities come together and create those opportunities.”
Omar Eduardo Mayorga, a parent of Laura Mayorga, who is attending the day program for adults in The Arc program, spoke about his daughter’s involvement in the program, and what it has meant to her and to her family.
“I want to share with you what great and significant help it has been for my daughter, in particular to attend the Adult Guidance Program in this Center,” he said. “I have seen her grow and strengthen herself more and more every day. She has created new friendships, participated in a practical and creative way, and in new and varied ways, with physical and social activities she needed so much to develop as a person. She has learned and will continue to learn new skills. With the support of specialized personnel and excellent training, Laura feels, perceives and identifies every day as a part of this community, and a part of a great family at this center, in The Arc Program. My daughter always waits with enthusiasm for her transportation to the center every day and returns to our home happy with an attitude and a positive energy.”
After her father’s speech, Laura said a few words to reiterate what her father had said about her social progress.
“I’m very grateful to attend this great opening and I am very happy and very grateful to be part of The Arc,” she said. “The Arc has basically helped me grow and improve in a lot of aspects of my life. It’s helped me be a more responsible person. It has taught me good time management and it’s helped me build a routine. I feel like I’ve learned how to communicate better with other people, and I express myself more openly to other people. I have a better communication with others.”
Aaron Olson, the director of community services with Central Valley Regional Center expressed gratitude to Senator Caballero, and to the community of Madera.
“It’s nothing short of a testament to the good work of this community as a whole. Much appreciation to all the hard work that the city and the county do on behalf of the people that we serve and the people that are living within this community,” Olson said. “We all work together in a collective way to provide services and support to those with disabilities. It’s an honor to be here in front of you all to talk about this amazing endeavor that started five plus years ago. It’s exciting to see the future, with many of the partners that are within this room.”
After the ceremony was a mixer, and the building was open for both guided and self-guided tours.