The following video was put together by a family that participated in The Arc Alliance Children's Services Music Together Program. The video is a great representation of the program, enrichment, and activity that takes place in each class. The Music Together Program is one way The Arc Alliance supports families and furthers the development of their children. For more information follow this link. Music Together link https://youtu.be/N3vjShkL_-M
Ergonomic Design Of Workspaces For Employees With Autism Submitted by: Jane Sandwood A survey by a team based at Coventry University found that one of the biggest challenges when it comes to designing a shared space for children with autism, is the wide variety of sensitivities each child may have. For instance, some children may y have a significant dislike for certain colors, while others may react more to noise. The same tension between personalization and design for a large team can be present in workspaces. However, there are many ways that companies can create clever workspaces that bring out the best talents of each employee. These pointers can also be applied to people with autism designing their own workspace as a freelance or contract worker. Taking into account [...]
My son Matthew's journey started when my son was diagnosed with PDD at 21 months. We were soon thereafter introduced to MARC because we were told that he was entitled to certain therapies at home, including speech, OT and PT too, I believe. These people were frequent visitors in our home to help Matthew bridge the gap in the areas that needed boosting, so they were coming often 2x per week. As you can imagine, the therapists would eventually feel like friends because of the amount of time they spend with you and your child. It is a good thing to have when you are just starting to get used to the "new life" with the impact the diagnosis can have on you as the [...]
The Arc Alliance continues to provide resources for individuals and families on a variety of topics. The Chat-n-Chew offerings are one avenue for you to gain knowledge, build networks and engage others working through similar issues as you and your family. Workshops are offered during the day and in the evening, starting either at 11:30 am or 6:30 pm lasting for an hour and a half. The day sessions provide you with an opportunity to bring your lunch and The Arc Alliance will provide a beverage, snack and the training! The evening sessions are set up after dinner and The Arc Alliance will provide a snack and beverage. Make sure to check the day and time of the sessions in which you have [...]
Governor Wolf invited Paul Stengle, CEO of The Arc Alliance to attend the 2018 State Budget Address in Harrisburg on February 6th. Paul has met with the governor's staff and Governor Wolf on several occasions. Paul's meetings have been focused on introducing Governor Wolf to the variety of critical issues facing individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. On many occasions Paul has invited families to address the Governor providing first hand experiences. Governor Wolf and his staff have been open and welcoming both Paul and families to better understand the situation and how he as Governor can help. The individuals and families experiences have had significant impact in the Governors understand and empathy for all concerned. This past year our community received [...]
The Arc Alliance 2017 Annual Report The 2016-17 year for The Arc Alliance was memorable on many levels. We were honored to work with so many individuals and their families in creating new and fulfilling life experiences. We are also pleased to have had the opportunity to play a part in influencing the state budget, providing an increase in support for many we serve. The 2016-17 year was marked by milestones and accomplishments and although the future is always uncertain we are focused and committed to working with individuals. families and our community in creating life experiences that exceed the probable. The Arc Alliance welcomes each of you to review our annual report and encourages you to join with us on [...]
Those in Attendance Families Kathy Morris – family member Daughter: Lyra Morris Grandmother: Madonna Melle Lindy Rolston- family member Son: Zachary Rolston Daughter: Natalie Rolston Jennifer Pineda- family member Daughter: Emily unable to attend The Arc of PA Maureen Cronin, Ex Director for The Arc of PA Achieva Sharon Richards, Vice President EI for Achieva The Arc Alliance Pat Leo- COO for The Arc Alliance Nancy Stimson, Asst. Director for The Arc Alliance Fran Crowe Asst. Director for The Arc Alliance Scott Camilleri- Ex. Director for The Arc Alliance Foundation Meeting with Governor Tom Wolf On Friday January 26, 2018 The Arc Alliance and a few families who [...]
The Arc Alliance, awarded Governor Tom Wolfe, with the 2017 Intellectual Developmental Disabilities Ambassador Award, for his support and commitment to raise awareness for the disabilities community. View Governor Wolfe's brief video of acceptance.
Dear Ms. Fran, Ms. Dana & The Arc Alliance: Music Together - Children Enjoying Making Music Music Together has made our kiddos little musicians! “J” (3-5 years and known as “J” in class) and “A” (15 months) have enjoyed music class at The Arc for three semesters and wish each class they grow more excited and confident. I signed on for the first 10-week session while “J” was involved in weekly speech therapy through the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit last September. Her speech was significantly delayed and she was very uncomfortable in larger social settings. “A” was just shy of 6 months when he came along for his first class and dozed through most of it. I am incredibly thankful for the [...]
On Wednesday May 17, 2017 Julie Gerhart-Rothholz, participated in a press conference with Senator Casey & Senator Maggie Hassan and an Occupational Therapist to address the AHCA and Medicaid block grants. As a parent and Boar Member of The Arc Alliance, Julie addressed the topic of how AHCA/Medicaid block grants can negatively impact her son Evan. Julie ended the session providing a significant context on this challenging issue. Link to Video It is extremely important for each of us to contact our legislators and tell them the potential impact these proposed changes will have on our loved ones. Join with Julie and let your voice be heard locally, state wide and nationally! Link to find your Legislator
The Arc Alliance is pleased to provide Staff with the following resources, publications, forms, and links to aid you in serving and supporting families in our community.
