We often find ourselves thinking of health as an individual concern: calories counted, steps tracked, fitness goals set. But being healthy is, at its heart, a community effort, and one that is particularly collaborative when it comes to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Parents, guardians, and caregivers work as a team in order to help their loved one be as healthy as possible. That responsibility, which spans birth through adulthood, can also feel daunting. This spring, The Arc of Essex County is investing in new ways to equip our consumers, residents, families, and staff with the tools they need to [...]

The students at Stepping Stones School have been enjoying the May holidays and the lovely spring weather together. The children have marked several holidays this spring, including Star Wars Day, where they wore Star Wars-themed outfits, listened to a Star Wars story, and posed with robes and light sabers. For Cinco de Mayo, the students enjoyed the Mexican hat dance, completed sombrero sensory activities, played maracas, and enjoyed a special snack of chips, salsa, and guacamole. In addition, the warm weather has given students the opportunity to explore nature and observe the flowering plants, as well as play soccer and other games [...]

A group of seventeen partygoers showed off their best dance moves at the Spring Fling Dance on May 21. The Group Respite event took place at the Opportunity Zone in Maplewood, and it featured a butterfly clothespin craft, lunch together around beautiful floral centerpieces, and, of course, plenty of dancing. The group also celebrated Jamal’s birthday with some delicious cupcakes. 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 activities at The Arc’s Recreation Services page, and view [...]

As The Arc of Essex County prepares to celebrate at “A Million Dreams,” the 75th Anniversary Gala this month, even those who cannot attend the milestone event in person on June 15 can participate through our virtual auction, which is already open and accepting bids. Prizes include airline vouchers, Yankees tickets, overnights at New York City hotels, beach vacations, weekend getaways, skincare products, pottery lessons, and more! Visit ArcAuction.com to see all the full list and to register and bid. New items are being added weekly, and the auction will close on Thursday, June 15 at 9 p.m. Click here to visit [...]

The children in The Arc of Essex County’s Saturday Respite program enjoyed a special visit to Studio Arc to make Mother’s Day crafts together in early May. The group used mixed media to make cards that looked like teacups, each of which held a tea bag gift for mom. The Children’s Saturday Respite Program is a community-based program for children ages 5 to 21. The program participates in both community-based and in-center activities including visits to parks, festivals, cooking, arts and crafts, and more. The in-center location is based out of Maplewood. To learn more, visit our Children’s Respite page or [...]

Volunteers Al Ianacone, Susan Langner, and Frank Langner have lent their gardening expertise to the Cedar Grove, Washington Avenue, and Bloomfield group homes this spring, continuing their 10-year tradition of bringing a green-thumb bounty to the Arc residences. Planting basil, parsley, cucumbers, tomatoes, and flowers, the volunteer crew spent hours this spring prepping the garden beds, planting the seedlings, and watering the gardens. They plan to check in every three or four weeks during the spring and summer months to weed and maintain the plants; in the meantime, the residents help keep the gardens watered. Al, who along with Susan has a [...]

It is with deep sadness that The Arc of Essex County reports that our long-time friend and colleague, Susan Knipper, passed away in May. Susan began her journey at The Arc 30 years ago as a manager in Residential Services, where she developed and maintained many long-lasting friendships. Susan has made an everlasting impact as the agency trainer for more than 25 years. Because of Susan’s commitment, dedication, and love of our residents and consumers, she always found ways to remain involved in their lives. Using her talents as a trainer in this capacity, Susan developed and led many impactful [...]

For individuals seeking a community living placement, The Arc of Essex County has the following June 2023 openings: West Caldwell Group Home (1 Male or Female Vacancy) Single-family style home in a quaint neighborhood 24/7 supervision Care given based on individual needs Group enjoys taking day trips together, pursuing hobbies at home, and enjoying backyard picnics Belmont Group Home (1 Male vacancy) Single-family style home Located in a great Livingston neighborhood. 24/7 supervision Can accommodate residents with additional medical supports and aging needs Meadowbrook Condo (1 Male or Female Vacancy) Unlicensed two-bedroom condo in Maplewood Candidates would be on the Supports Program Close to public transportation Care based on individual needs Orange Community Residence [...]