Celebrating Legacy: Lloyd's Impactful Planned Gift to The Arc

At The Arc, we celebrate the visionaries who shape the future of disability advocacy and support. Among them is Lloyd, a dedicated advocate and a proud father whose journey embodies resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Lloyd's story begins with his son, Kennedy, who was born with Down syndrome in 2003. From the moment Lloyd received the diagnosis, he embraced his role as an advocate. Refusing to accept outdated stigmas, Lloyd became a champion for inclusion, equity, and opportunity-not just for Kennedy, but for the millions of individuals with IDD across the United States.

Over the years, Lloyd's advocacy expanded to groundbreaking initiatives. He partnered with researchers and philanthropists, ultimately helping to establish one of the world's largest Down syndrome research institutes at the University of Colorado. His tireless work also led him to The Arc of Colorado, where he now serves as CEO of Arc Thrift Stores. Under his leadership, the organization has transformed into a beacon of hope, employing nearly 500 individuals with developmental disabilities and making a significant economic and social impact in Colorado.

In a conversation with The Arc, Lloyd shared the inspiration behind his planned gift:

"The Arc of the United States holds a very important place in my life. The organization's advocacy-from deinstitutionalization to mainstreaming and inclusion-has profoundly improved the lives of individuals with IDD, including my son. Supporting The Arc ensures that future generations will continue to benefit from these critical services and protections."

Lloyd's planned gift is a testament to his belief in The Arc's mission. By naming The Arc as a beneficiary, Lloyd is leaving a legacy that will fund advocacy programs, support families navigating the complexities of IDD, and drive systemic change. His gift underscores the power of planned giving as a meaningful way to create lasting impact.

For Lloyd, this is more than a donation-it's a reflection of his life's work and the values he holds dear. "This is the cause," he says. "For anyone who has the means and a connection to someone with IDD, supporting The Arc is one of the most worthwhile ways to make a difference."

Today, Kennedy is a thriving 21-year-old who works part-time at one of The Arc Thrift Stores. He is a shining example of the opportunities that advocacy, inclusion, and community support can create. Lloyd's planned gift ensures that countless others will have the chance to reach their potential, just like Kennedy.

We are deeply grateful to Lloyd and all our legacy donors, whose generosity fuels our mission to create a more inclusive world.