Have fun and make new friends.

The St. Louis Arc offers many activities throughout the year to keep our participants engaged and entertained.


Cooking for Comfort

2024 Classes

View or download a PDF of the 2024 Spring/Summer Leisure Times for a complete schedule of activities or visit the online registration page. For financial assistance, please click here.

Adult Music

Our adult music classes provide a fun and supportive outlet for expressing yourself through music. Our small groups and hands-on support help to maximize the benefits of music for people with communication and sensory issues. Class sizes are limited. For more information, please  contact Sarah Ballance, Coordinator of Leisure Services, at 314-817-2229.

Artist in You

Explore your hidden artistic talents! Join our exciting painting class to learn basic skills in drawing, sketching, painting, color theory, and mixing techniques. At the end of the class, you’ll get to walk away with your very own creative art design! A special art exhibit will be held at the end of the session to display your artwork. Participants must be at least 16 years of age or older. For more information, please contact Sarah Ballance, Coordinator of Leisure Services, at 314-817-2229.

Arc Escapes

A weekend getaway adventure program for adults ages 18 & older. Individual trips are planned throughout the year to give participants the opportunity to travel and explore various locations throughout the Midwest. There will be both pre-planned activities, such as ziplining, hiking, sporting events, and more. If you have questions or would like more information, you can contact Donny Conner, Coordinator of Leisure Services, at 314-817-2293.

Creative Music Making

Join members of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and Maryville University’s Music Therapy department for an amazing three day journey to create and perform an original piece of music. Thirty-six people who receive services from the St. Louis Arc and who are at least 16-years of age or older will have the chance to work with these musicians. For two days, participants will explore different kinds of music, and craft a new piece that will be performed on the third night on stage at Powell Hall. For more information and to receive the application, contact Sarah Ballance at 314-817-2229.

Cooking for Comfort

Enjoy hands-on experience in the kitchen while learning how to prepare easy, delicious meals. An experienced cooking instructor will assist participants in preparing tasty dishes. Participants must be 18 years of age or older. For more information, contact Donny Conner, Coordinator of Leisure Services, at 314-817-2293.

The Next Chapter Book Club

The book clubs meet weekly at local bookstores and cafes. Participants range from those who read well to those who do not read at all. These gatherings give adults the opportunity to read, learn to read, talk about books, and make friends in a fun community setting. It’s a great club that celebrates creativity no matter what genre it is. Participants must be at least 18 years of age or older. For more information, contact Ashley Price Coordinator of Leisure Services, at 314-817-2250.

Weekday Fun Day

Please join us for a night of fun during the week! We are excited to offer all kinds of fun from BINGO to virtual tours, movies, crafts, and even some cooking. All activities will be held virtually, so sit back and relax while you enjoy Weekday Fun Day with us! We are excited to have one of our favorite former staff, Kory Wagner to help lead our Fun Day events. For more information, contact Donny Conner, Coordinator of Leisure Services, at 314-817-2293.

Meet Ups

CONNECT Meet Ups

CONNECT is a program at the St. Louis Arc that empowers individuals to lead an independent life using individualized and community supports. This program is ideal for adults interested in moving out on their own and needing minimal support in order to be successful. Join our Meet Up group or RSVP for an upcoming event. For more information, please contact Beth Moeller, Director of Community Living at 314-817-2271.