On “May the Fourth,” also known as Star Wars Day, students in Stepping Stones School’s transitional kindergarten class celebrated the out-of-this-world holiday by wearing their favorite Star Wars or black-and-white clothing to school. (Some sported themed hairstyles as well!) The children had fun taking pictures with a Grogu poster as part of the festivities. The next day, the students celebrated Cinco de Mayo after learning about Mexican culture in the days leading up to the holiday. The children wore festive colors and clothing to school, enjoyed special snacks of chips with salsa and guacamole, and played games with a sombrero. They [...]

The Arc of Essex County wishes Maureen Murray, outgoing Director of Community Support Services, a wonderful retirement after 44 years with the organization. “With her hard work, abiding care, and joyful spirit, Maureen has embodied the mission of The Arc of Essex County throughout her career here,” said CEO Linda Lucas. “Although we are happy for her as she starts her retirement, we will certainly miss her at The Arc. Maureen’s passion for her job, devotion to those we serve, and extraordinary relationships with her colleagues have left a lasting legacy at our organization, and we cannot thank her enough for [...]

Volunteers Al Ianacone and Susan Langner, both graduates of the Rutgers Master Garden Program, are once again helping to beautify some of The Arc of Essex County’s group homes. The Verona Apartments, Washington Avenue Residence, and Linden Apartment in Bloomfield have all been spruced up by Al and Susan, who have planted marigolds, tomatoes, cucumbers, parsley, and basil at the residences. The staff and residents water and harvest the vegetables and flowers, and Al and Susan periodically look in on the gardens. The Arc thanks our volunteers for all their efforts, and we look forward to a bounty in the months [...]

Registration for The Arc of Essex County's 2nd Annual Craft Beer Open, taking place at Crestmont Country Club on Monday, September 12, 2022, is now open. The event will feature 18 holes of golf with on-course craft beer tastings and a post-event cocktail and awards reception. Check-in will begin at 11:30 a.m. followed by lunch and a 1 p.m. shotgun start.  Visit www.CraftBeerOpen.com to register today and experience the best of golf and craft beer while making a difference in the lives of children and adults with autism, Down syndrome, and other intellectual and developmental disabilities. Companies and breweries interested in participating [...]

Sweet treats were on the menu as The Arc of Essex County’s Group Respite program held a Cake Pop Decorating Party on May 15. The event featured make-your-own cake pops, with participants creating an assortment of delicious and colorful creations. They also enjoyed fruit salad and plenty of time to converse with their peers. The following weekend, with temperatures reaching the 90s, The Arc’s Community Inclusion group had a perfectly timed trip to Point Pleasant Beach on May 22. Participants enjoyed a walk on the boardwalk, where they took in the scenes, explored the rides and arcades, and cooled off with [...]