The Arc of Davidson County provides work opportunities to support independence
The Arc of Davidson County strives to help those with intellectual and developmental disabilities to gain independence, learn skills and strive to make a difference in their community.
July is Disability Pride Month that celebrates people with disabilities and commemorates the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990.
Besides some of its in-house programs, the Arc also provides disabled citizens an opportunity to work and earn their own money through their supportive employment program.
Omari Jones, 27, has worked at M&L Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Lexington for the past six years. He works two days a week sweeping and keeping the property clean. He is shadowed by support staff during his time working.
“I love my job at M&L,” said Jones. “I sweep up cigarette butts in the parking lot.”
Jones gets paid for the hours he works and has his own bank account. He also enjoys the money he earns to buy personal items or even buying treats for himself and others.
“I make money. I use it to buy lotion and moisturizer or buy dinner. If I have a lot of money to buy some pizza for everyone or something special.”
The Arc of Davidson County was founded in 1951 by families of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities and was formally incorporated in 1964. In 1970, the members voted to open a daycare center and started the Developmental Center at South Lexington Primary School.
The organization opened its first office in 1978 on West Center Street in Lexington and then occupied various offices until The Arc purchased its current property on South Main Street. Between 1982 and 1996, funding was received for four group homes supporting 23 adults.
As part of its mission to provide opportunity for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to choose and realize their goals, The Arc offers two different pathways for employment, supported employment and Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities, formally known as vocational rehabilitation.
Tammy Barnak, Employment Supports Coordinator for the Arc of Davidson County, said The Arc believes that all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are defined by their own strengths, abilities, and inherent value, not by their disability. And these employment services are a way to support this mission.
“A lot of people want to work, they are just like everyone else,” said Barnak. “They want to be independent. We are people centered and work off their needs and what goals they have.”
The Arc also helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities secure employment through its vocational rehabilitation program. This program is a one-time service that identifies the skills of local residents and finds permanent employment for them.
Barnak said these opportunities not only help participants develop working skills, it gives them a sense of accomplishment and to fulfill personal objectives.
“It helps develop social skills, personal communications and independence. It gives them the opportunity to contribute to the community,” said Barnak.
