For seven weeks this summer, campers had the opportunity to create new experiences at Camp Hope and enjoy an assortment of games and crafts connected to the weekly and daily camp themes. After a July filled with activities for all ages, August featured two weeks of camp for our youngest campers. The first week of August was themed “Color Wars,” and campers painted a variety of different types of rainbows, created rainbow fish out of tissue paper, tie-dyed shirts, and made spin-art masterpieces. They got colorful with the annual Color Run, which covered everyone in a mix of brightly colored paints [...]

After a break for the summer season, The Arc of Essex County’s Communi-Play sessions will return to Studio Arc this September, complete with music, movement, and learning for children ages 2.5 to 5. The communication parties will resume their bi-monthly schedule, with the first fall session to be held on Saturday, September 14 at 10:30 a.m. Additional sessions are scheduled for September 28, October 12 and 26, November 9 and 23, and December 7 and 21, with more dates through winter and spring 2025. These Saturday morning gatherings are offered by The Arc of Essex County at no cost to families, thanks [...]

Bidding is underway for the fantastic prizes featured in The Arc of Essex County’s 4th Annual Golf Classic Virtual Auction. The auction is open to all, and bidders do not have to attend the golf event on September 16 to win. Prizes can be viewed at ArcAuction.com, where bidders have the opportunity to win foursomes at local golf courses, weekend getaways, unique experiences, family day trips, and more. Prizes are being added regularly, so check back often before the auction closes at 6:45 p.m. on September 16. The Arc of Essex County Golf Classic will be taking place at the Crestmont Country [...]

The Arc of Essex County’s Adult Recreation Program kicked off August with a delightful "Picnic in the Park.” Brookdale Park provided the perfect backdrop for a relaxing Sunday afternoon, filled with laughter and leisure. Participants played lawn games, socialized, and enjoyed picnic food and cake together. On August 11th, Group Respite cooled down with a fun-filled "Ice Cream Sundaes and Karaoke" event. It was a treat to see everyone get creative with their sundaes, choosing from an array of delicious toppings. The day was made even more special with a lively karaoke session where participants sang their hearts out. The excitement continued [...]

When Emily Fernandez teaches students at Stepping Stones School about friendship, she zeroes in on three concepts: being a good listener, being kind, and being a “super friend.” So it’s fitting that she emulates all three traits as she goes about her day as the school social worker. “It is a pleasure watching Emily work with our students,” says Stepping Stones Principal Cynthia Healy. “They respond to her gentle manner and truly enjoy their time together. Through games, song and literature the children strengthen their communication and social skills, while having fun!” Emily grew up in Essex County and had always imagined [...]

Seaside Heights was the destination for several residents of the Park Place Apartment Program on a day trip that featured a visit to the beach and a stroll on the boardwalk under the sunshine. Other August day trips for Park Place residents included an outing to a local aquarium and special excursions to local restaurants. At the Cedar Grove, Bloomfield, and Claremont group homes, residents have been helping to water and care for the gardens lovingly planted by volunteers Al Ianacone and Susan and Frank Langler, and residents are now harvesting the herbs and vegetables to use for meals at home. Throughout [...]

The Arc of Essex County graciously accepted a generous donation from the Knights of Columbus #3632 Cedar Grove/Verona chapter on August 22. The chapter donated $1,200 to The Arc, with $800 allocated to Camp Hope and $400 allocated to Stepping Stones School. The Arc of Essex County was one of several organizations that support individuals with disabilities that the Knights presented donation checks to at its August meeting, held at St. Catherine of Siena Church in Cedar Grove. Funds given to the organizations were raised by members of the chapter as well as through fundraising collections at local grocery stores. The Arc [...]

An important update from the U.S. Social Security Administration: The Social Security Administration announces that customers who created an online account (e.g., my Social Security account) before September 18, 2021, will soon be required to transition to a Login.gov account to continue access to their online services. Over five million of these account holders have already transitioned to Login.gov. The agency is making the changes to simplify the sign-in experience and align with federal authentication standards while providing safe and secure access to online services. “my Social Security is a safe and secure way for people to do business with us,” said Social Security Commissioner Martin O’Malley. “We’re [...]

For individuals seeking a community living placement, The Arc of Essex County has the following September 2024 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 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 Orange Community Residence (1 Male or Female Vacancy) 24/7 supervision Single-family style group home located in a turn-of-the-century mansion with spacious living areas Co-ed living arrangement with [...]