Bakersfield ARC

Bakersfield ARC provides job training, employment and day services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families in Kern, Kings and Tulare counties. Its mission is to create opportunities that promote independence, enhance well-being and nurture a sense of belonging, and it has worked toward that from its California Avenue office in Bakersfield since 1949.

Access Now is a community integration program where small groups spend weekdays volunteering, building daily living and vocational skills and joining recreational activities, with round-trip transportation provided. Tailored Day Services customize one-on-one support around each person's choices, including employment, volunteering and post-secondary education. The Paid Internship Program places participants with local businesses at no cost to the employer, building toward competitive integrated employment, while Supported Employment partners with businesses to provide dedicated work crews of one job coach and three clients. The Social Recreation Program offers choice-driven outings in groups of up to 10 people.

Tailored Day Services and Social Recreation are open to Kern Regional Center clients age 18 and older. Families can call the office Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM. Community members can play in the Annual Golf Tournament each October, give to the Essential Needs Fund that covers gas for work, uniforms and unexpected bills, or become an ARChitect with a monthly gift of $50. Businesses can host an intern or hire a work crew.