ARC History

History:

The Allegany ARC was founded in 1961 by the efforts of a group of parents determined to give their children with developmental disabilities get a better life because no services were available. It started as a TREE workshop. TREE stands for training, rehabilitation, education, and experience. The ARC is a non-profit organization. The main goal of the ARC is facilitating every one’s right to fully participate in community life, recreation, and leisure and self- advocacy so they can lead richer lives.

Budget:

The annual budget for the ARC organization is 1.5 to 2 million dollars. The money comes from Medicaid, SSI, donations from charity, and grants. Fees for the residential home in Alfred come from the residents. They have to pay for rent, utilities and groceries.

Staff:

The Staff includes 325 individuals that are all trained in CPR, first aid, fire safety, and the use of adaptive equipment.

Policies:

The organization does have an approved policy manual. Some policies include the person-first language is to identify the individual as a person, a human being, in every reference to that person. It may be easier to focus on a certain characteristic or disability than on the person who possesses those things, but when we focus on the diagnosis, disability, or characteristic, the human being is being moved into the background and becomes somewhat dehumanized. The most current and detailed information may be found on the OPWDD Internet site in The 624 Handbook. Part 624 regulates the way in which executives, administrators and supervisors are made aware of problems and respond to those problems through corrective actions in order to minimize the potential for recurrence of the same or similar situations. By regulating these processes it is believed that individuals will be protected from harm and physical or mental abuse. In addition, the quality of services provided will remain high because incidences and accidents can be prevented. Responsibility l: Recognize and stop all forms of abuse immediately. Responsibility 2: Protect the individual from further danger and harm and seek medical attention if necessary. Responsibility 3: Report incidents as soon as they occur or are discovered. Recall that failure to report is considered abuse as well. OPWDD takes its responsibility to support staff that follow policies and procedures when reporting incidents very seriously. It is expected that staff will be honest and accurate when providing information within the context of an investigation. It is important also, that staff avoid breaching; confidentiality by refraining from discussing" the incident with co-workers; friends,-or-people, outside of 'work. Even a casual mention in a text message, in the parking lot, or on Face-book or other social media, must be avoided. Jonathan's Law was put into place to govern the way in which information and reports of investigations are shared and with whom. You may be asked for information by family members or advocates about the investigation progress or your involvement. You should refer the person requesting information to your supervisor so that the appropriate people share information with those who have a right to know. Allegany ARC is committed to a work place free of discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, age, sex, nation or origin, disability, status, as a veteran, or any other, protected status.

Clients:

 Eligibility for the organization is children and adults who have a documented developmental disability. Developmental disabilities include mental retardation, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism, and neurological impairments. The services are free for Medicaid. The ARC provides vocational services. This helps them to become more successful members in the workforce. Some programs include school to work programs, paid and unpaid internships, community and vocational assessments, job placement, supported employment, and on –site stimulated job training experiences. The ARC provides family care, therapy, residential alternatives, and supportive apartments.

Supervisor:

Kyle Mills is the current supervisor. His position is the Direct Support Professional. My experience is going well. He has been very helpful. He talks to me frequently.