Arc Riverside is a social service nonprofit group committed to serving those with disabilities with community-based services, employment training and training in independent living skills, The Press Enterprise reports.
About 400 individuals in western Riverside County participate in the organisation’s programs at their Adult Development Centres, helping them reach their maximum level of independence. For some this means physical therapy using the organisation’s adaptive equipment. The goal is to give clients increased mobility and the ability to do more on their own.
The organisation also offers programming that is therapeutic and builds skills. These include art programs, equine therapy, money management skills, grooming and exercise. The program also prepares clients to enter the workforce. The staff works with clients to help identify their goals. That could be working with animals or having a regular pay check and being able to support themselves. Clients work in smaller groups with support staff to get the skills they need to succeed in the workplace.
One individual in the program was doing lawn maintenance for Arc Riverside and wanted to earn more money. The staff coached him through the interview process and helped him apply for a job. Arc Riverside with the employer and he got a permanent position.
Clients can also volunteer through the Arc Riverside’s Aktion Club, which is an affiliate of the International Kiwanis Club. Participants help with food drives, toy drives, and volunteer to meet the needs of other nonprofit groups. One programs that is especially popular is volunteering at the local animal shelter. Working with the staff, participants walk dogs and help with animal care.
