Participants in The Arc of Essex County’s Community Inclusion, Recreation, and Respite programs had a bustling month of fun activities in February.

Gathering at Studio Arc on February 5, the Group Respite participants created beautiful and professional-looking Valentine’s Day cards using the Cricut smart-cutting machine, which they could then give to their loved ones for the holiday. The group also made Valentine candy boxes to take home, and enjoyed chatting with their peers while working on their projects.

On February 19, a Mardi Gras celebration at the Opportunity Zone in Maplewood included making colorful masks, wearing sparkly beads, and decorating cupcakes to eat and take home.

Community Inclusion participants visited the AMC Theater in Clifton to watch “80 for Brady” together on February 26.

Saturday Group Respite made Valentine’s Day crafts together and enjoyed some friendly competition with rousing games of indoor bowling. Those attending Hotel Respite from February 24 to 26 visited the Oak Knoll School’s winter musical, “James and the Giant Peach” in addition to their usual activities of shopping and bowling together.

If your loved one with intellectual or developmental disabilities is interested in educational programming, community experiences, seasonally themed events, or weekend group respite programs,, you can learn more about all of these programs at The Arc’s Recreation Services page, and view the Winter-Spring 2023 calendar. For any questions, contact Assistant Director of Adult Services Dacia King-Sarkodie at (973) 535-1181 ext 1272 or [email protected].