Item: 2013 grant recipients

Organization: Arc of Freeborn County

Project: Adaptive and Inclusive Recreational and Educational Opportunities for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Report: So far in 2013 (Oct. 2), The Arc has provided: 1. One hundred forty-five hours of summer and after-school programs for youth, teens and young adults; 2. Sixty-six hours of open activity room with monthly birthday parties, crafts, games, movies, karaoke and other opportunities for socialization; 3. Special events for families including six dances, two pool parties, a bus trip to Big Bear Mini Golf in Chaska and two educational life planning seminars; 4. Two hundred thirty-four rides (transportation assistance) for participants to attend activities; 5. Eight weeks of exercise/training for track and field and bocce plus buses to attend area Special Olympics competition; and 6. an adviser, transportation assistance and administrative support for the Aktion Club.

The Arc believes these opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families help to promote their social, health and educational well-being. Participants develop and increase social skills that are necessary to function appropriately and as independently as possible. Special Olympians show improved strength, stamina and motor skills and improved self-esteem and self-confidence.

Members of the Aktion Club are developing leadership and self-advocacy skills while volunteering and giving back to the community. Families have opportunities to come together to share ideas and information and receive guidance in raising their children with special needs.

The support and information they receive may not only reduce their anxiety and stress from feeling alone, but empower them to access the services their children need in order to reach their full potential. The life planning seminars helped families feel more confident about the decisions they make in planning for the future for their child with disabilities.