As the weather warms up, the calendar is filling with activities and trips for adult consumers with intellectual and developmental disabilities in The Arc of Essex County’s May-August Community Inclusion, Recreation, and Respite Catalog.

Community Inclusion Trips include visits to Point Pleasant Beach, a Strawberry Harvest Festival, Wild West City, mini golf and lunch on Lake Hopatcong, Maplewoodstock, the movie theater, and the Just Peachy Festival. The cost of four of the trips were significantly subsidized by the generous donors who contributed to The Arc of Essex County’s 2021 Annual Appeal last fall, making them more affordable for Arc participants.

Group Respite activities include a Spring Garden Party, with seasonal food and succulent garden planters; a Cake Pop Decorating Party; a Beach Party full of games and music at Camp Hope; a BBQ Campout, full of camping games, trail mix and smore making, and campfire stories; an Ice Cream Social; and a Picnic In the Park to close out the summer.

Saturday Group Respite programs will resume, featuring fun-filled days with peers, arts and crafts, games, cooking, and trips into the community. There are three Group Respite programs: one is located at the Opportunity Zone in Maplewood, the other two at the West Caldwell Hub.

Recurring bowling will also continue, with 12 Saturdays scheduled from May 7 to August 20.

All activities will closely follow Covid-19 protocols, and The Arc staff will make sure participants are partaking in the fun while also being safe.

The Arc’s programs and services are designed to help participants learn and enhance skills through socialization and fun. If your loved one with intellectual or developmental disabilities is interested in joining the fun, the spring/summer catalog can be viewed here. For any questions, contact Manager of Community Supports Services Dacia King-Sarkodie at (973) 535-1181 ext 1272 or [email protected].