Marianne (DiPonio) Licari was young when she was first introduced to The Arc NW. Her family joined to get services for her brother Duane DiPonio. Duane started in the Arc Athletic Program and Special Olympics. “Athletics made an impact on Duane’s life and gave him opportunities.”

As Marianne got older, the mission of The Arc NW resonated with her. “People who do not have a voice for themselves need someone to be the voice for them. Help them live the lives they want to live and should be living. And that’s how The Arc helps.”

Marianne’s parents started the Dinner Dance as a program fundraiser with the Arc Detroit and later with The Arc NW. They passed this tradition to Marianne and her husband, Vince, who have transformed it into the largest fundraiser of the year along with their committee: Cynthia Bryant, Luke Contos, Dave DiPonio, Chris Lerchen, and Bill Winkler. And thanks to their involvement, the Dinner Dance is more of a party and less of a fundraiser according to many event goers who look forward to it every year. The event sold out in 2020 with 400 guests!

Marianne and Vince are also both involved with the Arc NW Annual Golf Outing, and Marianne served on the board for many years before retiring in 2020. “In helping the Arc, we are honoring Duane. We are helping to provide a lifetime of services for people with disabilities if they need it. We love the people that work there because they care. We love the families and members because they share their own experiences to help others. It’s like a family.”

We are able to do so much more at The Arc NW because of the inspiring and selfless dedication of people like Marianne and Vince Licari. Thank you!