PROVIDING EXPERIENCES
The Arc ECT gives people with IDD unique opportunities to engage in their community in ways that serve personal choices and goals, allowing them to make measurable contributions locally.
COMMUNITY LIFE & ADVOCACY
Our COMMUNITY LIFE & ADVOCACY (CL&A) PROGRAM empowers people with IDD to be active in their communities. The program promotes access, equity, and inclusion, fostering an environment where all participants feel valued. Unique to the region, CL&A participants choose from a variety of activities each month that align with their personal interests and goals:
• Personal Empowerment: Support groups that focus on relationships, workplace issues, grief, and personal goals.
• Self-Advocacy: Support groups that foster confidence and civic engagement by discussing relevant topics, such as rights, public speaking, and decision making.
• Health & Wellness: Activities that promote physical, mental, and social health.
• Cultural Enrichment: Visits to museums, plays, and community events.
• Volunteering: Participants give back by helping at food banks and community events.
• Other Activities: Computer classes, bingo, concerts, holiday parties, picnics, bowling, dining out, and scrapbooking.
COMMUNITY LIFE CALENDAR
CAMP HARKNESS
Every summer, the Town of Waterford serves as a gateway to fun where people with IDD can take part in our annual Camp Harkness event. Camp Harkness is a weeklong overnight camp that offers a memorable summer experience that brings joy, adventure, and relaxation to all participants.
The camp is a fun, safe place for campers with similar needs, features engaging weekly themes and activities designed to inspire, entertain, and bring campers together. Our well-trained staff provide a supportive environment where campers can connect, explore, and participate in enriching experiences, such as:
• Experience new leisure activities.
• Enhance mental and physical skills.
• Develop a positive and confident self-image.
• Make new friends or get together with old ones.
• Build enduring friendships.
• Participate in guided activities designed to enhance leadership, self-advocacy and team building.
• Gain independence.
