Bakersfield ARC

The Bakersfield ARC (BARC) began in April 1949, when 13 local families wanted to provide hope and a normal life for their children who struggled because of developmental disabilities. These were parents who put their love into action and the end result was the beginning formation of the Bakersfield ARC (BARC).

Now, almost 67 years later, BARC has grown beyond the dreams of its original founders.  The nonprofit organization has grown into a 25 acre industrial campus that serves over 400 developmentally disabled adults daily, through 10 building block programs. 

The one-of-a-kind nonprofit is a true community innovator and job creator, BARC utilizes recycling as the foundation for revenues to create employment, work skills building and job training for these special adults with developmental and other disabilities. 

The organization contributes back over $8.3 million in wages to the local economy through job creation for the disabled and non-disabled.  For every dollar BARC receives it returns $13.08 of economic benefit back to the community. BARC assists over 250 disabled adults to earn a paycheck, gain independence and thereby reduce the financial burden on taxpayers. 

The story below helps highlight how BARC can provide success to developmentally disabled adults while positively impacting the community through acceptance of these individuals as role models for all to follow.

On July 11, 2005 the Bakersfield Californian carried a featured article about one of BARC’s developmentally disabled adults who had gone through BARC’s supportive employment program and was placed into employment with Dryer’s Ice Cream.  The title of the article read “The Perfect Worker.”  The article revealed the endless possibilities of success when individuals with developmental disabilities are provided with opportunity.  “Melvin Hayes hasn’t missed a day in his 16 years at Dreyer’s… he never had an accident and passed up a chance to make a connection with a smile and a friendly word.  I wish I had a thousand (employees) like him – with his attitude and spirit, said the Operations Business Unit Manager Jim Eddleman.” 

Today, Melvin has gone 27 years without missing one day and continues to be the “Perfect Worker” and he was recently recognized by his peers and management at the Nestle-Dreyers Ice Cream Company for his years of incredible service, dedication, and perfect attendance.  It was through lengthy BARC education and training that helped mold Melvin into the “Perfect Worker.”  BARC wishes to produce many more individuals just like Melvin who only need the opportunity to gain the education and skill level required to be employed at an excellent company like Nestle-Dreyers Ice Cream Company. 

Welcome to Bakersfield ARC

Supporting Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Enriching Communities.

Bakersfield ARC is dedicated to advancing economic and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities by supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our programs foster independence, enhance well-being, and promote belonging for everyone we serve.

What We Do

🌟 Inclusive Employment Opportunities

We prepare individuals for meaningful, long-term employment through:

• Vocational training programs

• On-the-job coaching and job placement services

• Partnerships with local businesses

• Skills development for financial independence

🤝 Combating Social Isolation

We help individuals build strong social connections and mental wellness by offering:

• Social skills training

• Peer support groups

• Community engagement events and outings

• Recreational and creative arts programs

🥦 Nutrition & Wellness Education

People with IDD face a 66% higher risk of serious health issues. We promote healthy living through:

• A sustainable farm-to-table program

• Hands-on nutrition education

• Accessible cooking and exercise classes

• Wellness initiatives to build lifelong habits

📣 Advocacy & Education

We drive systemic change by:

• Advocating for the rights and inclusion of individuals with IDD

• Educating the public and stakeholders about disability equity

• Collaborating with local, state, and national partners

🌍 Building Inclusive Communities

We bring people together to foster understanding and respect through:

• Cross-community initiatives

• Inclusive events and campaigns

• Diversity and inclusion training for employers and organizations

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Why Your Support Matters

Your donation helps us:

• Open doors to employment, recreation, wellness, and education

• Fund programs that fall outside the scope of government aid

• Ensure that each individual has access to the support and resources they need to thrive

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Bakersfield Architects

We are building a brighter future for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

With your help, we can continue creating a more inclusive, healthy, and connected community—where everyone has a place and a purpose.

For more information: https://www.bakersfieldarc.org/bakersfieldarchitects

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBakersfieldARC/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebakersfieldarc/