The Arc Of Norfolk

Programs: People first state convention: the arc of norfolk sent 2 volunteers and 7 self-advocates to kearney, ne for the people first of ne state convention. A grant from the nebraska planning council on developmental disabilities assisted with some of the travel expenses of this program. This convention offers a wealth of leadership and self-advocacy training. It also offers a social opportunity for natural friendships to develop. Individuals spend 3 days and 2 nights in kearney for this convention. For several of our constituents this is the only out of town travel they experience all year. This program had a total cost of $716 with a $500 grant from the region iv dd council.

the arc of norfolk hosts an annual holiday soup supper every december for self-advocates, family and staff. This is one of our largest events. For many individuals who experience a disability and have no family nearby, this may the extent of their holiday celebration. We serve over 250 people a soup dinner and cinnamon roll at this event. Santa makes a visit and hands out gifts to every self-advocate. This year the john w. Carson foundation helped provide a grant so that we could upgrade our typical $1 gift to a $5 gift card. We were also able to hire a catering company to prepare all of the food versus arc board members who had typically done all of the meal prep in the past. This event had a total cost of $2,793. 29 for catering, gift cards and decorations. These expenses were covered by a grant from the john w. Carson foundation.

other program services: the arc of norfolk advocates for the rights of citizens with developmental disabilities and their families. During the month of march, the arc of norfolk worked diligently to promote dd awareness and to encourage people to learn more about the persons in their community who experience a disability and to recognize their talents and abilities. We take extra steps during this month to raise awareness about the needs and rights of the people we serve as well as celebrate their contributions to our communities and society as a whole. In recognition of dd awareness month we hold a pancake supper for our constituents, family members, staff and concerned citizens of our community at a cost of $378. 89.