For adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, finding meaningful employment can be a life-changing opportunity. A job offers more than a paycheck—it provides a sense of purpose, greater independence, and the chance to contribute to the community. At The Arc of Essex County, we’re helping individuals take important steps toward these goals, and our 2026 Annual Appeal, Opportunity Starts Here, invites our community to be part of that journey.

This year’s appeal focuses on expanding opportunities through our Jobs Club, which helps adults with IDD explore career interests, develop workplace skills, and gain hands-on experience in a variety of settings. Through job-sampling experiences at local businesses, participants discover their strengths, build confidence, and learn what it takes to succeed in the workplace.

For participants like Evette, who gained valuable skills while working at a restaurant, these experiences offer a glimpse of what’s possible. “I really want to work and make my own money so that I can buy things for myself,” she shared.

Donations to the Annual Appeal will support three key areas:

A Chance to Try: Gifts will help provide job-sampling opportunities, transportation to and from work sites, necessary materials, and dedicated staff support to help participants explore different career paths.

A Chance to Build: New Entrepreneur Mini Grants will help individuals turn their talents and ideas into small business ventures. Whether purchasing supplies, creating products, or launching an Etsy shop, these grants will give aspiring entrepreneurs the resources to take the next step toward their goals.

A Chance to Shine: An Arc Closet stocked with professional clothing, appropriate work attire, and essential supplies will help job seekers make a great first impression, whether they’re preparing for an interview or starting a new position.

Each of these initiatives reflects our belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to discover their potential and pursue their dreams.

“At The Arc of Essex County, we know that meaningful opportunities can change lives,” said CEO Kathleen Hinnigan-Cohen. “With the support of our generous community, we can help more individuals build the skills, confidence, and independence they need to pursue their goals.”

Your gift to the 2026 Annual Appeal can help open doors to new possibilities. Whether you’re supporting someone’s first experience in the workplace, helping an aspiring entrepreneur launch a business, or ensuring a job seeker feels confident walking into an interview, your generosity makes a meaningful difference.

Opportunity starts here, with you.

Make your gift today at ArcGiving.com and help create opportunities that change lives!