The Arc of Indian River County

The Arc of Indian River County has supported people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families in Vero Beach and across the county since 1975. Its mission is to help each person reach their own life goals, and it advocates for full acceptance of people with special needs as valued members of the community.

The Adult Day Training program builds life skills, independence and job readiness through social enrichment, volunteer work and recreation, with regular visits from partners like Ballet Vero Beach and a monthly HealthRHYTHMS drum circle. Participants also helped restore the Indian River Lagoon: their Oyster Mat Project with the University of Central Florida led UCF to name The Arc Reef in their honor. Supported Employment pairs people with job coaches for resume building, interview practice and on-the-job training with local employers. The Arc also runs six group homes, including one designed for medically fragile adults, plus supported living, behavior services and transportation to programs, jobs and appointments.

For teens, Youth Outreach offers a free monthly respite evening during the school year for ESE students ages 14 to 21 at the West Campus, giving families time to themselves.

The community can volunteer, shop the Amazon wish list, buy an engraved brick for the Pathway of Possibilities, or join fall events: the Tommy Danaher Memorial Golf Classic, the adults-only Friday Fright Night and the Special Needs Community Halloween Party.