The Arc of Space Coast

The Arc of Space Coast helps adults with intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities in Brevard County build safe, productive and joyful lives. Established in 1956 and long known as Bridges, it offers employment, residential, advocacy, therapeutic and educational programs, working alongside the county's other disability support agencies.

At its main facility in Rockledge, day programs are customized to each person's goals. The Enrich Program provides full-day therapeutic care for people with significant needs, COM/PASS and Life Skills Level III build personal, household and community skills at each student's own pace, and the I-Force Work Experience Program offers paid packaging and assembly work with local business partners. Participants also elect an Advocacy Council that speaks up for their needs and helps plan monthly events and field trips.

Three group homes, Springwood Estates and Woodsmere in Rockledge and Melrose in Titusville, provide 24-hour supervision, meals, transportation and social gatherings for residents who want as much independence as possible. Real jobs come through its Material Recycling Facility on Patrick Space Force Base, which serves Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and Kennedy Space Center, and through Live Scan fingerprinting services. Patriot House in Melbourne is a six-bed transitional home that helps homeless veterans with disabilities move into stable housing over 18 to 24 months.

The Arc of Space Coast accepts Medicaid Waiver and private pay, and families can call to schedule a tour. Volunteers help in group homes, day programs, transportation, the recycling facility and the thrift store in Rockledge, and fundraisers include the Wacky Tacky Golf Tournament and Purse Bingo.