When you first meet Michkeal and Samantha, it is clear that they are leaders. These two young adults are friendly, open, and excited to meet new people – perfect traits to help lead a group to empower others and connect people. The St. Louis Self-Advocates is a new group founded through the Arc this past year. Their…
One of life’s major milestones is stepping out on your own for first time. Whether you move to a college dorm, find a roommate and an apartment in the city, or you rent or buy your first home; taking that first step can be daunting. Next, the St. Louis Arc’s transition department, is offering a…
The St. Louis Arc would be unable to provide the quality programs and supports we offer without the help of the hundreds of volunteers who give their time each year. As with many things over the last year, volunteering during the pandemic has brought both challenges and opportunities. So, when everything came screeching to a…
Since 1983, the St. Louis Arc has been continuously accredited by The Council on Quality & Leadership (CQL), an international non-for-profit organization. We consider this distinction a badge of honor because CQL standards are recognized by federal and state government as benchmarks for excellence. Additionally, few organizations who specialize in taking care of people with disabilities ever…
Community Engagement (CE) and Aging With Empowerment (AWE) continue to engage participants in a unique and challenging format. As a result of the pandemic, the programs cannot run in-person at full capacity, and some participants are actively choosing to stay home. With seven sites across St. Louis, the programs are offering both in-person and virtual…
From the President and CEO A quote, which is a favorite of mine, is attributed to Fred Rogers, aka Mister Rogers. He said, “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’…
The St. Louis Arc wishes you a joyous holiday season and a peaceful New Year. Did you miss the Arc’s virtual holiday party? Don’t forget to check out “Home for the Holidays” to celebrate what we’ve accomplished during a year like no other.
She’s spunky and independent. With a radiant smile and infectious laugh. That’s how you’ll remember four-year-old Blaire. Working her way down the stairs in her bright pink helmet. Striking a pose for the camera wearing her biggest hair bow. Insisting on the tricycle – not the wagon – when she’s outside with her friends. “We…
On the 9th day of the 9th month, we honor Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Awareness Day as a symbol of the 9-months of pregnancy that a woman should remain alcohol free. Over the last decade, awareness efforts have grown and September is now set aside as International FASD month. FASD is an umbrella term describing…
In 2019 the St. Louis Arc launched Next, a new area of services that provides focused, impactful supports for individuals with autism or learning differences. Understanding that not everyone needs the same level of support, these programs support individuals as they navigate what is next in various aspects of their lives. Individuals choose the areas…