ARC OF SOUTHINGTON INCORPORATED

The Arc of Southington is an advocacy organization and a service provider for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. The organization began with families and is still committed to families, as well as individuals with cognitive disabilities. The Board of Directors is made up of family members, professionals, advocates, self-advocates, business people, as well as interested citizens, from the areas in which services are provided. What began as a support group and volunteer organization has evolved into a human service agency that provides advocacy, education, information and referral, and an array of quality and individualized services and supports to people of all ages with developmental disabilities, and their families. The Arc of Southington is a leader in the community: educating, empowering, supporting and advocating for people with disabilities.

The Arc of Southington has been a residential service provider for over twenty five years. Currently, under contract with the CT Department of Developmental Services, the agency operates 7 licensed group homes. Three are in Southington, two in Cheshire and two in Wallingford. The agency has been a provider of Individualized Support Services for over fifteen years. The Arc of Southington supports individuals in their own homes in Southington, Cheshire, Wallingford and Wolcott. The agency provides day time supports on an individualized basis. Currently we support retirees, people who work or volunteer in the community, as well as individuals who choose other day time activities. The Arc of Southington is a vendor for the CT Department of Developmental Services, Individual & Family Support Waiver. The supports available include Individual Habilitation, Personal Support, and Day Support Options. All supports are individually developed in accordance with personal preferences, needs and goals. The agency has been providing individualized supports for people with disabilities for over 15 years. The Recreation program is designed for adults with disabilities and is inclusive in the community. Each month a calendar of events is mailed to participants. The calendar includes typical small group activities such as eating out, shopping, and concerts, as well as large group activities such as movies and dances. Opportunities for individuals with disabilities to plan their own activities are provided. In addition there are several day long activities, day trips and vacations during the year that serve as respite for families. The Social Services and Advocacy Program is funded by donations from the Knights of Columbus, fund raising, memberships and private donations. We provide information and referral, education to families and the community, planning, individual advocacy, systems advocacy and legislative advocacy. Most of the services we provide are free.