The Arc Ontario: 70 Years of Proven Excellence

 
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The Arc Ontario is a resource for people with disabilities or other challenges and their families. With a focus on providing innovative service options, we are with you every step of the way!

 

Stories from our Community

 
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The Foundation of Our Success is You

The Arc Ontario community is full of incredibly passionate individuals who have had various experiences with our organization. From receiving services to volunteering to serving on our Board of Directors, we are grateful to everyone who contributes to our success and commitment to being a resource to individuals with disabilities.

 

Denise Chaapel

Denise Chaapel has been an Arc Ontario community partner for more than 30 years. She believes in the work that we do here in Canandaigua. Denise is an incredible partner who most recently worked with us to open Bad Dog Boutique — staffed by individuals with disabilities or other challenges who receive services from The Arc Ontario.

Lynne Erdle

Lynne Erdle is one of our long-time Arc Ontario supporters. Her commitment and dedication to the work that we do every day spans more than 30 years, including 20 years serving as a Board Member. We are so grateful to have Lynne serve as our Board President for the second time!


First Steps with The Arc Ontario

Navigating through the world of services can be overwhelming for families. You might not know where to begin or what to do. Starting is easy with our Intake Coordinator who can guide you through the process and explore opportunities available to you and your family.


Social Enterprises

The Arc Ontario operates several business ventures that serve the community while generating revenue to help sustain our core mission. These unique ventures evolved from activities in which we were already engaged, that we realized could contribute to the community at large. Click here for more information about our social enterprises.

 
 
 

Important Information

Agency Expands Employment Services with Launch of New Employment & Training Center

The Arc Ontario is thrilled to announce the opening of its new Employment & Training Center, offering a comprehensive menu of employment preparation services designed to empower individuals with disabilities or other challenges to explore career paths, develop essential workplace skills, and achieve lasting success in their desired fields.

The agency's new Employment & Training Center provides individuals with the tools and support they need to confidently navigate the job market and secure fulfilling careers. This innovative center caters to all individuals, regardless of their current career stage. Whether you're just starting to identify your interests or seeking to enhance your existing skillset, the dedicated team at The Arc Ontario is here to guide you.

Ready to take the next step in your career? Contact Brian Webb, Transition Coordinator, at bwebb@thearcontario.org or (585) 919-2201 to learn more about The Arc Ontario's Employment & Training Center and schedule a visit today!

Check Out Our 2023 Annual Report

We are thrilled to share with you our 2023 Annual Report! To view, click here.

OPWDD Front Door Information Session Videos Now Available

The Office for People With Developmental Disabilities is pleased to announce that new Front Door Information Session videos are now available for viewing on the OPWDD website

The Front Door Information Session outlines the process of how a person can become eligible for OPWDD supports and services, the types of supports and services available and where they can get assistance. These short videos provide easy-to-understand information about OPWDD services and how to get started receiving services. The videos are separated into segments that provide an overview of important steps in the process and will replace the practice of requiring Front Door Information Sessions in person or online:

  • Getting Started with OPWDD

  • The Front Door Process

  • Eligibility

  • Services

  • OPWDD Residential and Housing Supports

  • OPWDD Employment Services

  • Self-Direction

  • OPWDD Care Management

  • Assessment

  • Funding

View The Arc Ontario’s 2022-2024 Strategy & Action Plan

We are excited to share with you our 2022-2024 Strategy & Action Plan, which outlines ways The Arc Ontario plans to evolve in all areas including finances, workforce, leadership, structure, and infrastructure so that we may continue to flourish and prosper in the years ahead.

The Arc Ontario is Now Offering Adult ADOS Testing to Assist in Diagnosing Autism

The Arc Ontario’s Senior Behavior Specialist, Ashley Hanvey has received certification to administer ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule). This has allowed the agency to begin offering testing while serving as an additional resource for the community in assessing and diagnosing autism and related diagnoses.

The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule is a standardized assessment of communication, social interaction, play, and restricted and repetitive behaviors in children. During an ADOS assessment, a specialist interacts directly with the child in play and social activities. If you would like more information about ADOS testing, or if you would like to schedule an appointment, please contact JoEllen Schaefer, Family Support and Intake Coordinator at jschaefer@thearcontario.org or (585) 919-2118.


NY HERO Act: The Arc Ontario’s Safety Plan

On September 6, 2021, Governor Kathy Hochul announced the designation of COVID-19 as an airborne infectious disease under the HERO Act. This designation requires all employers to implement workplace safety plans. The New York Health and Essential Rights Act (NY HERO Act) was signed into law on May 5, 2021, and mandates extensive new workplace health and safety protections in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of the NY HERO Act is to protect employees against exposure and disease during a future airborne infectious disease outbreak.

In response to this designation, The Arc Ontario has developed a new safety plan to protect the individuals we support as well as our staff members. To view our updated safety plan, please click here.

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