Arc of Walker County

The Arc of Walker County was incorporated in 1975 by persons interested in the well-being and future needs of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The goal was to provide support and training for these persons, and for their families and friends. Since then, we have expanded our programs to include Early Intervention for infants birth to age 3, Early Head Start, REACH Pre-Kindergarten, Day Habilitation, Supported Employment,
Supervised Living, Community Homes and recreation opportunities for all ages. The Arc strives to help our
consumers live independently with dignity and respect, and to be active, productive citizens of their community.

Although we maintain an individual non-profit status, we are members of the Arc of Alabama and the Arc of the United States. We are also a United Way agency and a member of the Nonprofit Resource Center of Alabama. In attempting to meet the needs of our individuals, we provide the following services in each individual program:

Children’s Programs:

Early Intervention: a natural environment-based program for children birth to three years of age with developmental disabilities or delays. The program provides evaluation
and individual therapy, as well as parent and family training. Outpatient sessions are available at the ndividual’s
convenience. These services are free of charge to children who qualify.

Early Head Start: works in conjunction with the University of Alabama in Birmingham to provide inclusive center-based childcare for one, two and three year olds for an eleven month period. Priority is given to families who fall below the poverty level, families at risk of abuse, mothers of a certain age and children with developmental delays. Specialized services are offered for children with special needs.

REACH Pre-Kindergarten: a Pre-K program for eighteen 4-year olds in Walker County to prepare them for 5-year old kindergarten. Children are taught the necessary building
blocks to prepare them for the years ahead. Enrollment is not financially restrictive. Cost is $25.00 per week but assistance is available if the family is eligible.

Adult Services:

Day Habilitation: provides intensive training to our individualsthrough the Life Skills Training Center and community based training activities. Skills training includes
personal grooming, housekeeping, money management, shopping activities, and street safety among others. All training is intended to assist the individual to reach their maximum potential in every area of their lives.

Semi-Independent Living: provides assistance and opportunities to increase independence, enhance community involvement and help each individual to improve their own quality of life. Companions provide supervision and assistance with daily living skills such as cleaning, laundry and meal preparation. Help with personal care such as feeding and bathing is also provided. Companions help with social integration into the community and always give emotional support. Each milestone in every person’s
individualized plan is aimed at enhancing a more independent life for the individual by providing improved quality of life and a more positive self-image.

Residential: serves individuals with intellectual and
developmental disabilities who cannot live alone or with their families. The Arc provides 24-hour care and supervision in a community integrated residence. Staff
provides care and assistance with every aspect of daily living, such as meal preparation, medication, health, safety, and transportation. 

Supported Employment: places eligible persons with various disabilities in competitive employment. With funding provided by Alabama Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Supported Employment develops job placement opportunities and matches a person to the job. By careful job matching, analysis, assessments and training, individuals who are mentally and physically challenged become productive, confidant members of our community. A job coach provides on-site training and assistance to help each worker function effectively on the job. Long-term support is available to insure employer/employee satisfaction and job retention.

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