The Arc of the East Bay

The Arc of the East Bay offers life skills education and employment services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and epilepsy. Based in Hayward, it welcomes people from across Alameda County, and clients set their own annual goals, often with input from their families, with Direct Service Providers helping them reach those goals.

Three day programs fit different needs. The Alternative Ventures Program is a social, recreational and life skills program with volunteer work, fitness, arts and crafts, music and outings into the community. LEAP (Life Skills, Employment, Access & Partnerships) spends the whole day in the community five days a week, building work-based learning and independence. SCOPE, the Supported Community Options Project of the East Bay, centers on domestic skills, recreation, community access and vocational activities such as computer lab work, shredding and packing.

Through Community Services, the supported employment program, The Arc matches people with local employers and continues job coaching for as long as someone is working, at no cost to the individual or the business. LifeLinks Golf introduces participants to the game with volunteer coaches and an annual Community Challenge Tournament, and the Bogey Bash golf tournament in May raises funds for programs.

People are referred through the Regional Center of the East Bay, and families can start with a program inquiry. Volunteers coach golf, lead community outings, teach skills, serve on the board or committees, and employers can hire clients or host volunteers.