The Arc of Williamson County was featured on Waves of Awareness (Season 11, Episode 5), where Executive Director Katie Klause and Director of Development Brooke Tanner shared how our programs support people with disabilities and their families. From advocacy and counseling to community outings, social programs, and partnerships with local organizations, this episode highlights the impact of disability services and the importance of inclusion across Williamson County.
We are excited to share our latest podcast appearance on Waves of Awareness (Season 11, Episode 5)! This engaging conversation features The Arc of Williamson County’s Executive Director Katie Klause and Director of Development Brooke Tanner, who joined the hosts to talk about our mission, programs, and the ongoing work of disabilities advocacy and support across the community
Our Mission: Empowerment and Inclusion
Katie and Brooke shared how The Arc WC has been serving Williamson County for more than 50 years with a mission rooted in empowerment. Our goal is to ensure people with disabilities can live their best lives—whether through disability education, developmental services, or by simply being recognized as valued members of the community.
“We want to hear your story first, then connect you with the right services and supports,” Katie explained, emphasizing that The Arc is a listening nonprofit.
Programs That Make a Difference
The podcast highlighted our four main programs:
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Family Support – State-funded assistance helping families access essential disability programs.
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Independent Support Coordination – Case management for individuals through 1915(c) waivers, Katie Beckett, and Tennessee Strong Families programs.
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Advocacy Programs – From trolley rides to social skills classes, book clubs, and community activities that provide belonging and connection.
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Counseling – Affordable or grant-funded counseling services for individuals with disabilities and caregivers who need a safe place to be heard.
Brooke described how these programs go beyond checklists and boxes—our team listens, adapts, and ensures that each individual’s voice and choices are respected.
Community Impact Stories
The Arc WC’s work is perhaps best seen in the little moments that grow into lasting change. Brooke shared how monthly bingo nights at Waldo’s restaurant in Franklin started as a small idea and have since blossomed into a packed, intergenerational event where people with disabilities, families, and neighbors come together.
These gatherings remove barriers by creating natural community spaces—not therapy hours or structured programs—just opportunities to laugh, play, and connect.
Partnerships Across Williamson County
Katie and Brooke also spoke about partnerships that strengthen our reach, including collaborations with Waves, Special Olympics, Better Options, Brightstone, High Hopes, and even the Franklin Police Department. Together, these partnerships expand opportunities and improve disability services support for families.
How You Can Get Involved
Listeners also heard about ways community members can step in:
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Volunteer – Support trolley outings, bingo nights, or Special Olympics events.
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Donate – Financial gifts and items from our Amazon Wish List help us expand programs.
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Show Up – Attend community events and be a cheerleader for inclusion.
Brooke summed it up well: “From holding a door to writing a check—there’s always a way to get involved.”
Listen to the Episode
You can listen to the full podcast here: Waves of Awareness – Featuring The Arc of Williamson County.
At The Arc of Williamson County, our work is about more than programs. It’s about listening, supporting, and creating a community where people with disabilities and their families are fully seen, valued, and included.
Learn more about our disabilities services, advocacy, and community programs at thearcwc.org.