Participants in The Arc of Essex County’s Adult Recreation, Respite, and Community Inclusion programs enjoyed a variety of social, recreational, and engaging activities throughout May, including: A festive Cinco de Mayo celebration on May 3, where participants made and painted their own maracas out of empty water bottles, danced to mariachi music, and enjoyed taco bowls with a variety of toppings Bowling outings on May 2, 16, and 30 at Bowlero Belleville, where participants practiced teamwork, sportsmanship, and friendly competition while enjoying pizza and a beverage with peers A “Matinee & Mingle” outing on May 17, where participants enjoyed a trip to the [...]

Residents across The Arc of Essex County’s residential programs enjoyed a variety of social, recreational, and community-based activities throughout May, including: Girls’ Night In and Man Cave Monday events at Studio Arc, bringing together residents from across programs for fun, friendship, and creative activities Residents from 45 Beechtree attending performances at NJPAC, enjoying dinners out together, and celebrating Melvin’s birthday A Memorial Day gathering shared by residents from 21 and 45 Beechtree, bringing everyone together for food and fun in their shared neighborhood Residents from 21 Beechtree attending the Kiwanis Karnival and participating in the LACD Spring Party Newark Apartment residents enjoying an exciting outing [...]

Children and teens in The Arc of Essex County programs have had a busy spring, including: Saturday Respite participants picnicking in the park, attending a spring dance at the Livingston Senior Center, and exploring the rides and attractions at the Kiwanis Karnival in Livingston Parents’ Night Out participants working on springtime crafts and activities together Communi-Play sessions for children ages 2.5 to 5, offering interactive, play-based communication opportunities for young children and their families at Studio Arc, encouraging connection and early language development Social skills classes for children and teens each Tuesday afternoon A Family Fun Day and field trip to Huckle Berry Indoor Playground [...]

Bryan moved into the Newark Apartment Program in January and has been nothing but smiles ever since. “He’s so happy and ready to get engaged with any activity,” says Jessica from the residential staff. Bryan loves to watch movies, play Connect Four, and visit nearby Branch Brook Park, where he enjoys walks and picnics on the grass. “Everyone here is awesome and I’m enjoying it so much,” he says, adding that he gets along well with his fellow residents and loves the staff. “They treat me right, they really do.” His favorite part of his apartment is his bed (“It’s so nice [...]

As a teenager, Alexis Soled was initially interested in studying psychology, which then shifted to nursing. While volunteering as a candy striper at a local hospital, she found herself fascinated by the rehab department, and thought perhaps physical therapy was for her, arranging to shadow therapists at a hospital. What she didn’t expect was a conversation that would shape the rest of her life. An occupational therapist called her before the visit to see if she might be interested in observing the OT department as well. Unsure about what OT was, she was told, “You work with people physically, mentally, emotionally, and [...]

The Arc of Essex County is pleased to announce two recent grants that will help strengthen residential and employment support services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Flagstar Foundation has approved a grant in the amount of $25,000 to support the cost of a Jobs Club Supervisor. The funds will help advance vocational training and employment readiness opportunities for program participants. Through Jobs Club, individuals build workplace skills, gain hands-on experience, and work toward greater independence and community inclusion. In addition, the John A. and Margaret Post Foundation has awarded $18,900 to support bathroom renovations at the Nutley Group Home. [...]

For individuals seeking a community living placement, The Arc of Essex County has the following June 2026 openings: (NEW!) West Orange Community Residence (2 Male or Female Vacancies) A beautiful five-person barrier-free home in a residential neighborhood in West Orange 24/7 supervision Located conveniently to nearby shopping and movie theaters Residents enjoy regular picnics in their yard, playing basketball, and helping to take care of the home. (NEW!) Belmont (1 Male Vacancy) 1 vacancy in a five-person home Single-family style home in a great Livingston neighborhood 24/7 supervision Can accommodate residents with additional medical supports and aging needs The group enjoys activities together and helping with chores around the house (NEW!) Newark [...]