In this episode, Grayson Harris sits down with Katie Collins-Ihrke, Executive Director of
The Arc of Howard County, to discuss the organization’s 65-year legacy of supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the realities of operating in a challenging funding environment, and the importance of mission alignment in nonprofit leadership.
Katie shares how The Arc balances advocacy and direct services, navigates state and federal budget pressures, and builds long-term sustainability while staying rooted in dignity and community inclusion.
About The Arc of Howard County
Part of the broader national network of
The Arc, The Arc of Howard County provides:
- Advocacy for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities
- Community-based housing and residential support
- Employment assistance and job coaching
- Skill-building and community integration services
The organization supports individuals across approximately 30 properties throughout Howard County, helping people live, work, and participate fully in their communities.
What is The Charity Charge Show - Nonprofit Podcast?
Scaling a mission requires more than passion, it requires high-discipline leadership, financial innovation, and strategic resilience. Hosted by Stephen Garten, The Charity Charge Show goes behind the scenes with nonprofit CEOs, social impact innovators, and community leaders. From the TGR Foundation to the Sierra Club, we deconstruct the operational models, fundraising breakthroughs, and "durable skills" driving real-world impact. Power your mission with actionable insights from the front lines of the nonprofit sector.