The Arc of Iroquois County

The Arc of Iroquois County provides services, support and advocacy for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Founded in 1953 and based in Watseka, the agency is a member unit of The Arc of the United States and The Arc of Illinois, and it serves communities throughout Iroquois County.

People choose the setting that fits them: their own home, a community setting or one of The Arc's own sites. The Community Integrated Living Arrangements program supports adults who live in rented, purchased or family homes in the surrounding towns, with help that ranges from occasional check-ins to round-the-clock support. Welles Career Center offers pre-employment training and activity programs in art, woodworking, horticulture and sensory experiences, with therapy consultants available by referral. The Iroquois Supported Employment Program pairs job developers and job coaches with people who want paid work in the community.

Families are part of the picture too. The Individual and Family Support Unit offers counseling, education, benefits assistance and home-based supports, and a Drop In Center gives participants a place to cook, learn money skills and spend time with friends. Respite care gives caregivers short-term, in-home relief, and the agency runs its own greenhouse where participants gain hands-on work experience and neighbors can shop during the spring selling season.

All services begin with a screening and eligibility check, and the agency also welcomes volunteers, members and donors who want to back its work.