Nicholas’s history with the Arc of Essex County goes back decades: he attended Camp Hope as a child, has lived in The Arc’s group homes for the past eight years, and has participated in Day Programs since 2018, joining Bridges in 2022. At Bridges, Nicholas has been making strides in getting out into the community, taking on responsibilities, and engaging more socially with his peers. He helps push carts and load bags during community outings and assists with afternoon trash disposal by walking to the dumpster. A familiar and friendly face around the program and in his community, Nicholas knows everyone [...]

For Kassie Pierinelli, there have always been signs pointing her toward a career in education, and specifically to Stepping Stones School. Long before she became Principal of Stepping Stones, Kassie was the little girl playing school in her basement, armed with a chalkboard and old workbooks her teachers had given away at the end of the year. Her younger brother was often her student, willing or otherwise. “I think I was just a teacher at heart,” she says Growing up in New Jersey, Kassie regularly worked with children, including teaching dance. In high school, another experience quietly planted a seed for where [...]

For individuals seeking a community living placement, The Arc of Essex County has the following September 2026 openings: West Orange Community Residence (1 Male or Female Vacancy) 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. Newark Apartments (2 Male Vacancies) Multi-level home with individual rooms and shared spaces 24/7 supervision Located in Newark on a tree-lined street with easy access to Branch Brook Park Linden Apartment Program (1 Female Vacancy) 1 bedroom available in a 3-bedroom Supervised Apartment in Bloomfield 24/7 [...]