Detailed Introduction
Liberty ARC, the Montgomery County Chapter of The Arc New York, is a leading non-profit organization committed to providing exceptional support and services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Established in 1957 by a group of visionary parents, Liberty ARC was founded on the principle of ensuring that their children, and others like them, could lead fulfilling lives with access to appropriate education and care within their local community.
Located at 5 Market St, Amsterdam, NY, Liberty ARC has grown significantly over its six decades, evolving its programs and services to meet the diverse and changing needs of the individuals it serves. The organization's core mission is "Together we support people with disabilities to achieve a quality of life each person values." This mission is underpinned by a person-centered approach, ensuring that services are tailored to individual preferences and goals.
Liberty ARC offers a wide array of programs designed to promote independence, community integration, and personal growth. These include:
Residential Services: Providing various living arrangements, from supervised homes to semi-independent apartments, tailored to different needs and designed to foster a sense of belonging and community.
Day Services: Offering programs that enhance life skills, promote community connection, provide recreational and creative opportunities, and offer vocational support, often utilizing technology for individualized learning.
Career & Employment Network: Dedicated to helping individuals gain vocational skills and secure meaningful employment opportunities. This includes job coaching, training, and placement services.
Family Support Services: A crucial component, this program offers respite care, recreational activities, after-school programs, summer camps, community habilitation, and medical transportation, all designed to support families and caregivers. They also provide a caring community, information, referrals, and advocacy.
New Dimensions in Health Care: Demonstrating a commitment to the holistic well-being of the individuals served.
Liberty ARC is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, which includes parents and relatives of individuals with disabilities, ensuring that the organization remains true to its founding values and vision. As a member of The Arc New York, Liberty ARC actively advocates at both statewide and local levels to champion the human rights and full inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in all aspects of community life. The organization also engages with the community through various initiatives, including fundraising events, volunteer opportunities, and partnerships, reinforcing its role as a vital resource in Montgomery County and beyond.