Stone Belt Arc, Inc.

Stone Belt Arc is South-Central Indiana's oldest and most extensive provider of comprehensive supports for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The organization traces its origins to 1958, when nine local families united to establish a single classroom in a Bloomington church basement for children who were excluded from public schools. Over the following decades, the grassroots initiative grew into a regional pillar operating primary service hubs in Bloomington, Bedford, and Columbus, serving more than 1,000 children and adults annually throughout Monroe, Lawrence, Bartholomew, and surrounding counties.

The agency's adult day programs focus on community inclusion, lifelong education, and personal self-advocacy. Participants choose from diverse activities designed to build daily living abilities, communication techniques, and social relationships. A hallmark of Stone Belt's day services is its renowned fine arts program, which offers professional studio instruction in painting, ceramics, printmaking, and fiber arts. Participating artists regularly exhibit their artwork in community galleries, local businesses, and regional festivals, earning income from sales and establishing identities as recognized local artists whose creative voices enrich the entire region.

Community employment represents another cornerstone of Stone Belt's mission. The organization believes that every person who wants to work should have the opportunity to earn a meaningful living alongside their peers. Employment consultants work closely with each candidate to identify individual strengths and career goals, collaborating with hundreds of area businesses ranging from retail stores and dining establishments to university facilities. Job coaches provide customized on-site training, helping individuals master workplace tasks, integrate into team settings, navigate work transportation, and maintain long-term career stability.

Stone Belt also operates specialized clinical and outpatient mental health services tailored specifically for individuals with developmental disabilities. Highly qualified behavioral clinicians, licensed counselors, and therapists deliver functional behavior assessments, individualized behavior support plans, and individual or group counseling. In addition, physical, occupational, and speech therapists work with clients to improve mobility, sensory processing, and daily functioning, ensuring coordinated, interdisciplinary care that addresses the whole person.

Through its residential services division, Stone Belt supports individuals living in apartments, group homes, and shared living arrangements across South-Central Indiana communities. Staff provide personalized assistance with health management, grocery shopping, household maintenance, and civic participation, enabling residents to live safely with maximum independence. Families and individuals can connect with Stone Belt to explore service options and navigate state Medicaid waivers. Community members can get involved through charitable contributions, volunteering, artwork purchases, or employer partnerships.

Stone Belt Arc actively champions self-advocacy and community education across the region through dedicated leadership initiatives. Participants are encouraged to speak for themselves, sit on advisory committees, and help shape organizational policies and service offerings. The agency also provides comprehensive training for regional employers, civic groups, and educators, promoting disability awareness, workplace accessibility, and inclusive practices that ensure individuals of all abilities can participate as valued community members.