Arc aids developmentally disabled

To some, cleaning tables, swiping cards and interacting with customers is just another tedious day at work. However, it is a step toward independence and a sense of accomplishment to the people the Arc of Orange County serves.

The Arc of Orange County works with local developmentally disabled residents to help incorporate their skills into the community.

The nonprofit is increasing the resources available to these residents with the newly formed Employment Support Services.

The main focus will be to assist individuals in finding paid employment, said Christian Keller, director of group programs and specialized services.

"These guys have a lot of viable and useful skills, but they just need that extra support to go through the process," Keller said.

The month-old department is working with eight people currently, and new referrals come in everyday, Keller said.

"We're just starting to expand the program," said Michelle Antonelli, employment specialist for Arc. "Our goal is to serve many more than that."

Arc works to provide disabled residents with the resources they need to locate, secure and maintain a competitive employment position.

Keller said they try to place clients in jobs that complement existing interests and skills.

"If someone really loves music, we'll look into some of the record stores or a place where they can be working with folks that play instruments," Keller said.

Arc has provided this aid before. They've set up summer internships and volunteer opportunities for clients at local businesses for years.

"We have done bits and pieces of employment support services but nothing to this extent," Keller said. "Now we can put all of our energy and time into helping clients find jobs."

One client already works at Café Carolina in Meadowmont Village.

"It allows him to be around and talk to people he wouldn't normally be exposed to," said Sam Rhule, Café Carolina general manager. "He gets to learn … communication skills and how to deal with people."

Rhule said he would encourage other businesses to become involved with Arc's employment services.

The most successful part of the program is the individual's sense of pride and independence in their vocation, Keller said.

"It's a real job. It's not something that's made up for them," Keller said. "They're in a real business with a real job. They are being able to be productive and contributing members of a society."
Source: The Daily Tar Heel