The Arc Ontario is a resource for people with disabilities or other challenges and their families. With a focus on providing innovative service options, we are with you every step of the way!
Stories from our Community
The Foundation of Our Success is You
The Arc Ontario community is full of incredibly passionate individuals who have had various experiences with our organization. From receiving services to volunteering to serving on our Board of Directors, we are grateful to everyone who contributes to our success and commitment to being a resource to individuals with disabilities.
Denise Chaapel
Denise Chaapel has been an Arc Ontario community partner for more than 30 years. She believes in the work that we do here in Canandaigua. Denise is an incredible partner who most recently worked with us to open Bad Dog Boutique — staffed by individuals with disabilities or other challenges who receive services from The Arc Ontario.
Lynne Erdle
Lynne Erdle is one of our long-time Arc Ontario supporters. Her commitment and dedication to the work that we do every day spans more than 30 years, including 20 years serving as a Board Member. We are so grateful to have Lynne serve as our Board President for the second time!
First Steps with The Arc Ontario
Navigating through the world of services can be overwhelming for families. You might not know where to begin or what to do. Starting is easy with our Intake Coordinator who can guide you through the process and explore opportunities available to you and your family.
Social Enterprises
The Arc Ontario operates several business ventures that serve the community while generating revenue to help sustain our core mission. These unique ventures evolved from activities in which we were already engaged, that we realized could contribute to the community at large. Click here for more information about our social enterprises.
Important Information
OPWDD Front Door Information Session Videos Now Available
The Office for People With Developmental Disabilities is pleased to announce that new Front Door Information Session videos are now available for viewing on the OPWDD website.
The Front Door Information Session outlines the process of how a person can become eligible for OPWDD supports and services, the types of supports and services available and where they can get assistance. These short videos provide easy-to-understand information about OPWDD services and how to get started receiving services. The videos are separated into segments that provide an overview of important steps in the process and will replace the practice of requiring Front Door Information Sessions in person or online:
Getting Started with OPWDD
The Front Door Process
Eligibility
Services
OPWDD Residential and Housing Supports
OPWDD Employment Services
Self-Direction
OPWDD Care Management
Assessment
Funding
View The Arc Ontario’s 2022-2024 Strategy & Action Plan
We are excited to share with you our 2022-2024 Strategy & Action Plan, which outlines ways The Arc Ontario plans to evolve in all areas including finances, workforce, leadership, structure, and infrastructure so that we may continue to flourish and prosper in the years ahead.
Check Out Our 2022 Annual Report
We are thrilled to share with you our 2022 Annual Report! To view, click here.
The Arc Ontario is Now Offering Adult ADOS Testing to Assist in Diagnosing Autism
The Arc Ontario’s Senior Behavior Specialist, Ashley Hanvey has received certification to administer ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule). This has allowed the agency to begin offering testing while serving as an additional resource for the community in assessing and diagnosing autism and related diagnoses.
The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule is a standardized assessment of communication, social interaction, play, and restricted and repetitive behaviors in children. During an ADOS assessment, a specialist interacts directly with the child in play and social activities. If you would like more information about ADOS testing, or if you would like to schedule an appointment, please contact JoEllen Schaefer, Family Support and Intake Coordinator at jschaefer@thearcontario.org or (585) 919-2118.
NY HERO Act: The Arc Ontario’s Safety Plan
On September 6, 2021, Governor Kathy Hochul announced the designation of COVID-19 as an airborne infectious disease under the HERO Act. This designation requires all employers to implement workplace safety plans. The New York Health and Essential Rights Act (NY HERO Act) was signed into law on May 5, 2021, and mandates extensive new workplace health and safety protections in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of the NY HERO Act is to protect employees against exposure and disease during a future airborne infectious disease outbreak.
In response to this designation, The Arc Ontario has developed a new safety plan to protect the individuals we support as well as our staff members. To view our updated safety plan, please click here.
