Toddlers, children, and teens have been taking part in a variety of educational and engaging activities offered by The Arc of Essex County this spring. Recent programming has included: A free yoga class for babies and toddlers as part of Early Intervention Week (click here to read the full story) Children’s Saturday Respite activities, including a Mother’s Day craft project, playing Angry Birds Mini Golf at American Dream, engaging in new games together at the Obie interactive table, and shopping at Five Below as part of the money-management curriculum Social Skills classes for children and teens at the Opportunity Zone in Maplewood every [...]

The Arc of Essex County is pleased to announce that The Lillian Schenck Foundation has generously granted $2,500 to the Camp Hope Fee Assistance Project. The funds will allow low-income children from across northern New Jersey to attend the 2025 Camp Hope season. Located in East Hanover, N.J., Camp Hope welcomes individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities during the summer season with a property that features a beach-entry swimming pool, accessible-friendly playground, splash pad, basketball court, outdoor pavilion, and expansive recreation field. Learn more at ArcCampHope.com. The Arc of Essex County extends its sincere appreciation to The Lillian Schenck Foundation for its [...]

Alec is new to The Arc of Essex County scene in 2025, moving into the Beacon Group Home in Livingston and joining the West Caldwell Hub Day Program in January. He describes himself as an active person, and says he’s been happy to take part in a wide range of activities at The Arc. Some of his hobbies include yoga and photography, and he’s excited that he can practice both on WCHUB’s trips to Studio Arc. He especially loves photographing classic cars. Alec says he enjoys his roommates and likes being so close to lots of things to do. “I like [...]

When it comes to fulfilling The Arc’s mission, Jaquiah Garvin is quick to remind people about the importance of self-care, whether she’s advising the residents in an Arc group home or the staff she now guides as Quality Improvement Manager at The Arc of Essex County’s main office. “When we take care of ourselves, we can better take care of others,” she says.  Jaquiah, also known as Jae, has always wanted to help people, and was often the friend people would go to for advice, a laugh, or a listening ear when she was growing up. After graduating with a Psychology [...]

It is with great sadness that The Arc of Essex County shares the news of the passing of Juliana Benson. Julie had been a part of The Arc of Essex family for about 25 years, attending Arc day programs and Camp Hope through the years while residing at the West Caldwell Group Home. Julie will be remembered for her determination and independence, her boisterous and engaging personality, and her ability to advocate for what she wanted. She truly lived life on her own terms. She enjoyed socializing and debating with her peers and beading costume jewelry. If there was a celebration of any [...]

For individuals seeking a community living placement, The Arc of Essex County has the following June 2025 openings: (NEW!) Bloomfield Group Home (1 Male or Female Vacancy) Single-family home in a great neighborhood 24/7 supervision Newly renovated in 2021 Active group, with frequent parties and day trips and a large back deck for gatherings First floor is accessible West Caldwell Group Home (2 Female Vacancies) Single-family style home in a quaint neighborhood 24/7 supervision All-female home Care given based on individual needs Group enjoys taking day trips together, pursuing hobbies at home, and enjoying backyard picnics Belleville Group Home (1 Male Vacancy) Two-family supervised apartment on quiet dead-end street 24/7 supervision Located near Branch Brook Park [...]