This is your opportunity to make an undeniable, lifelong impact in the quality of life of individuals with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities!
Community Connections
The Community Connections Program, you will positively impact the social development and academic achievement of individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.
Community Connections consists of fun conversations and video chats or phone calls that support and guide your partner through hobbies, goals, career advice, and more. Your relationship with your partner is a vital part of their social growth and positive mental health.
Community Connection Partners are matched based on interest compatibility, and the commitment involves a one-on-one video chat or phone call at least once a week for 30 minutes, with an 8-week commitment.
- This requires a $30 fee to run your background check. This information will be sent to you once you have completed the applications and paperwork.
- *Note: Due to state requirements, anyone who has lived in New York during the past 7 years would need an additional New York background check, which we are unable to process at this time. If you live in NY and have questions, please reach out to info@arcaustin.org
Teaching a workshop
Bring the community into the virtual classroom! We are looking for business and community members to teach a one-time workshop in their area of expertise: social media, music, fixing cars, business start-ups… your knowledge and experience is a valuable education tool!
Social Class
During COVID-19 individuals experiencing intellectual and/or developmental disabilities have a higher risk of experiencing isolation effecting their mental health. Join us in group video chats, socialize with students and help combat isolation.
- This requires a $30 fee to run your background check. This information will be sent to you once you have completed the applications and paperwork.
- *Note: Due to state requirements, anyone who has lived in New York during the past 7 years would need an additional New York background check, which we are unable to process at this time. If you live in NY and have questions, please reach out to info@arcaustin.org
Supply Collection Drive
Through Virtual Education, students learn quality art techniques; however, many students do not have ample art supplies at home. We are looking for contributions of small paint sets, chalk, marker sets, and drawing paper.
As we return to in-person services, our goal is to supply each student with their own backpack of supplies. Help us provide these backpacks and supplies to all our students by visiting our WISHLIST. You can participate as an individual or bring a group or organization together to help fulfill our post-secondary needs with a Backpack Supply Collection Drive.