Roberto started attending The Arc of Essex County’s SYA Day Program in the fall of 2024, and soon began participating in the Community Inclusion and Recreation programs as well. He says he loves the new friends he’s met and really enjoys dance parties and going out for community lunch. “We had a fancy party for Christmas,” he said, recalling how beautiful it was and how nice it was to go out together to the Chandelier in Belleville. He says he loves getting dressed up for special occasions. Roberto also enjoys the van rides from his home in Belleville to SYA in Nutley, [...]

As Debra McGauley-Eichhorn weaves around the Studio Arc art studio, helping artists from The Arc of Essex County’s Day Programs work on their techniques and translate their creative thoughts into beautiful pieces of art, you would never know that her original calling had her in a very different field, studying business administration and economics and then law, and working as an attorney for about a decade. But when she became a parent, Deb also became a stay-at-home mom. And when her oldest child was diagnosed with autism, “that really changed the whole direction of what I did.” As Deb’s son grew older [...]

For individuals seeking a community living placement, The Arc of Essex County has the following March 2025 openings: Belleville Group Home (1 Male Vacancy) Two-family supervised apartment on quiet dead-end street 24/7 supervision Located near Branch Brook Park and other outdoor spaces Residents enjoy activities together, including trips to area destinations as well as picnics on their spacious deck Washington Avenue Residence (1 Male Vacancy) Single-family style group home in a quiet Montclair neighborhood 24/7 supervision Within walking distance of parks and shopping Residents enjoy going on local trips together South Orange Supportive Living Apartment (1 Female Vacancy) 1 bedroom available in a 2-bedroom apartment Minimal community living support needs Access to an emergency [...]