Fariborz Zarfeshan is the recipient of The Arc Baltimore’s Professional of the Year Award.

Presented to Zarfeshan at The Arc Baltimore’s 2020 Virtual Awards Ceremony, the award recognizes a professional who furthers The Arc’s mission by supporting the organization and the individuals it serves with professional services characterized by excellence and sensitivity.

Associated with ALFA Specialty Pharmacy, a regional provider of pharmaceutical services located in Ciolumbia, MD, Zarfeshan is always responsive and knows the people The Arc Baltimore supports. He often calls their doctors to clear up any issues (such as when a medication is ordered by a specialist that may conflict with other medications) and he directs his team to do the same. He personally has hand-delivered medications on evenings and weekends to ensure the people The Arc supports have what they need for their health.

The Virtual Awards Ceremony recognized Arc Baltimore staff, self-advocates, board members, and community members for their dedication to, and advocacy for, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The Ceremony “offered a tremendous opportunity to recognize the outstanding services given to The Arc Baltimore and to the individuals it supports each year,” says the organization’s Chief Executive Officer, Kathleen McNally Durkin.

“The work of all of our award recipients and nominees, as well as so many others, plays a critical role in the continued success of The Arc Baltimore,” adds Durkin. “Their hard work and dedication are at the heart of our mission to support people with developmental disabilities in leading fulfilling lives with a sense of belonging and purpose.”

The Arc Baltimore supports people with developmental disabilities to lead fulfilling lives with a sense of belonging, purpose, and meaningful relationships.

As one of the nation's largest and most respected organizations of its kind, The Arc Baltimore is an indispensable resource, providing employment training and support, day and residential services, family support and education, treatment foster care, respite care, public policy advocacy and information, and referrals.