By working with your Service Coordinator, families can gain access to innovative technologies that can ensure a safe environment and enhance a person’s independence at home and in the community. There are two different types of adaptive technologies:

Environmental modifications, such as alterations to doorways and bathrooms or adding a wheelchair ramp to a home.

Adaptive equipment such as van lifts, stair glides, ceiling tracks, or other recommended devices.

This innovative program is located on-campus at Finger Lakes Community College and Hobart & William Smith College and designed for young adults, ages 18 – 24. Participants have access to all aspects of a college campus including extracurricular activities, student activities, cafeterias, athletic facilities and can audit classes. These components enhance the program’s curriculum, which focuses on enhancing social skills, promoting independence and increasing community involvement. The College Experience program also focuses on employment interests by offering internships at local businesses.

Modeled after the College Experience program, the Community Experience program is designed for individuals who need additional behavior and medical supports. This program incorporates community-based learning in areas such as job interviewing, use of public transportation, banking and work expectations.

Community Habilitation is a service designed to help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities enhance their skills and maintain an independent lifestyle. Completely customizable and family directed, staff provide guidance and instruction in meal preparation, personal finance, health care and shopping. This comprehensive service offers a flexible schedule and curriculum.

The Community Resource Network is a series of local and national experts who present on a variety of topics such as autism, teenagers and sexuality, Special Needs Trusts and guardianship. These special presentations are geared towards parents, educators and caregivers and are free of charge to attend.

A trio of programs designed to inspire the artist within, Creative Expressions offers instruction in art, music and horticulture. Classes are offered in small groups and participants have access to a music laboratory, art studio and outdoor greenhouse. From flower arranging to vocal lessons to watercolor portraits, there are a variety of different mediums for individuals to explore and express themselves.

To help address difficult situations during non-business hours, Ontario ARC has a Crisis Intervention service available 24-hours-a-day, seven-days a week by telephone. Our trained on-call staff can direct you to the best resources available and develop a plan-of-action.

If you are experiencing a crisis and need immediate assistance, please call (585) 729-4396.

Ontario ARC’s Day Services are designed to maximize opportunities while enhancing social and life skills for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With locations throughout Ontario County, the people who attend our programs are actively involved in the communities they live in. We offer a variety of programs through Day Services, including:

• Community Learning Centers that focus on personal health, community involvement, developing relationships, nutrition and safety skills.
• The Eberhardt Center, which provides extra support to individuals while encouraging community involvement. 
• Pathways for individuals who are looking to enhance their vocational skills and be active in their community through volunteer work.

Transportation is provided through Ontario ARC’s Finger Lakes Bus Service.

Our groundbreaking, comprehensive employment services help alleviate the stress that can come with a job search. We work with each individual one-on-one to determine their career interests and assess their skill levels. Then, a job placement specialist assists in your job search – from finding a position to filling out an application and practicing interviews. After an individual is placed, a job coach takes over and assists a person maintain the skills necessary to succeed in the position.

For more information about Ontario ARC’s employment services, visit For Employers.

The aim of the Family Reimbursement program is to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to continue living at home with their family.  Families can submit applications requesting financial reimbursement toward the costs of goods and services -- including respite – as long as the request is related to the individual’s disability.

To submit an application or learn more about the specific guidelines about reimbursable expenses, please contact JoEllen Meath at (585) 919-2118.

In New York State when a person reaches 18 years of age, they are assumed to be legally competent to manage their own affairs – regardless of disability, unless deemed otherwise. Ontario ARC is able to provide assistance with the legal process that designates an individual or family to act on behalf of those who are unable to manage their personal affairs without assistance. When there are no family or friends to serve as guardian, Ontario ARC may be named to act as Corporate Guardian with assistance from NYSARC, Inc.

Animals have the remarkable ability to raise people's spirits and improve their well-being. To bring these benefits to the people we serve, Ontario ARC offers Pet Connections -- a program connecting pets and people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Working with a certified therapy pet, the people in our programs will see and feel the immediate benefits and gain a new outlet for exercise, social skill development and self-esteem building.

Ontario ARC has teamed up with Finger Lakes Health to offer Project SEARCH – a nationally-renowned program designed to support young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they seek employment in non-traditional jobs.  The program is located within the hospital grounds, completely immersing participants in employment training and instruction as well hands-on internships working side-by-side with Finger Lakes Health staff.  Project SEARCH has a New York State-certified teacher and job coach to enhance job and work skills preparation. 

Recreation is an important part of any well-balanced life. Ontario ARC provides a variety of athletic, cultural and social events that accommodate people with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Bowling, swimming, trips to Buffalo Bills games and museums are available and supervised by our trained staff. Available all year, recreation activities are categorized by age and community-based. Transportation to recreation events is available.

Ontario ARC has a variety of residential options for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are over the age of 18. Homes are located throughout the county and designed to be family-like houses or supervised apartments in all-male, all-female or co-ed settings. Trained skills instructors are on-site 24-hours-a-day and assist with cooking, housekeeping and daily life skills. Residents are encouraged to participate in their communities through work, volunteer opportunities or attending day programs.

Navigating through the world of services can often be overwhelming for families.  Our Service Coordination Department is staffed with experienced professionals who are able to match people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to the supports that best meet their needs.  Service Coordinators help individuals access programs, services and funding supports like Social Security and other government benefits.  They can also assist families to advocate for supports through the schools and other entities as necessary.  As a person begins to get older, they assist in the transition from school-based services to adult services.  Through person-centered planning, a Service Coordinator can be instrumental in connecting individuals to new opportunities such as residential options, vocational services, day programs and different community-based leisure activities.