The Arc of the Emerald Coast

The Arc of the Emerald Coast offers "a path from disability to capability" for children and adults with cognitive, intellectual and developmental disabilities in Okaloosa County and parts of Walton and Santa Rosa counties. Founded in 1992 as Horizons of Okaloosa County, the Fort Walton Beach affiliate of The Arc took its current name in 2015 and focuses on abilities, respect, choice and full inclusion in community life.

Adult Day Training centers fill the day with art, cooking classes, reading and math, bowling, boat rides, dances and outings built around each person's goals. Licensed group homes and a foster home provide round-the-clock staff and training for daily living, while Supported Living coaching, In-Home Personal Supports and respite help people live in their own homes or with family. Supported Employment specialists help clients write resumes, interview, learn job skills and keep jobs with local employers, and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst provides behavior analysis services. A van fleet carries clients to day programs and daily errands.

The Impact 100 Aquatic Center and Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation Education Center, opened in 2017, houses the region's only fully accessible swimming pool for people with disabilities and is open to the whole community.

Families eligible through the Agency for Persons with Disabilities arrange services with a support coordinator, and private pay options are available. Supporters volunteer, donate, and turn out for events like Hats on the Horizon, featuring hats handmade by clients.