The Arc Morris

The Arc Morris is the premier nonprofit provider of dedicated services, residential housing, and advocacy for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Morris County. Founded in 1953 by a grassroots coalition of parents committed to creating inclusive educational and social opportunities for their children, the agency has grown over seven decades into a vital countywide resource supporting individuals throughout every phase of life.

The organization’s residential services network operates 19 licensed community group homes and supportive apartment complexes located throughout Morris County neighborhoods. Each residence is staffed by trained direct support professionals who provide personalized assistance with daily living skills, medication administration, meal preparation, personal care, and community outings. The program emphasizes self-determination and personal dignity, empowering residents to make personal choices regarding their daily routines, leisure activities, household responsibilities, social connections, and individual life goals in comfortable home environments.

For daytime enrichment, The Arc Morris operates four adult day habilitation centers that offer a dynamic schedule of educational, recreational, and life skills activities. Participants engage in visual and performing arts, culinary classes, computer literacy, and physical wellness programs while giving back to the community through organized volunteer projects with local charities. The agency also provides comprehensive supported employment services, including career interest exploration, job development, resume building, interview preparation, community job fairs, and continuous on-site job coaching to foster competitive community employment, professional confidence, and long-term economic independence for every participating worker.

Family support is central to the organization’s mission. The Arc Morris offers regular respite programs, sibling support groups, and family education workshops to assist caregivers navigating complex state service systems, guardianship procedures, and healthcare coordination. In addition, the agency hosts an active recreation calendar featuring bowling leagues, seasonal dances, weekend trips, and social clubs, as well as inclusive summer day and overnight camp opportunities that foster lasting friendships, self-confidence, teamwork, and personal growth for participants of all ages. These recreational gatherings provide crucial social engagement, active community participation, and peer camaraderie in supportive, accessible community environments throughout the entire calendar year.

Through its dedicated self-advocacy programs, the organization empowers participants to speak out on disability rights, participate in statewide legislative advocacy days, and influence local community policies. Direct support professionals and case managers work closely with families to develop individualized service plans that promote lifelong independence, self-worth, and community belonging. By collaborating with civic groups, local employers, healthcare providers, and dedicated volunteers, the agency ensures that individuals of all abilities are embraced as valued neighbors, coworkers, and community leaders throughout northern New Jersey. Individuals and family members can connect with services through the Morris Plains administrative office, and supporters can contribute through volunteering, event sponsorships, and philanthropic donations to empower individuals with disabilities throughout Morris County.