These programs are designed to showcase the variety of recreational opportunities that exist in the community while at the same time meeting new people, developing friendships, and having fun! Each program fosters the development of social skills, helps to promote independence, and provides opportunities for community inclusion.

INTEGRATED CAMP SUPPORT

The Arc of Onondaga assists individuals, ages 6-18, to fully integrate into existing programs or camps during summer vacation and school breaks. The goal of the program to provide the needed supervision and supports for youth to successfully attend and participate in existing programs of their choice, such as Rosamond Gifford Zoo, Beaver Lake Nature Center, YMCA, and Day Camps. Support will be provided on a one-to-one basis and individualized to the person for up to two weeks. Limited slots available. OPWDD eligibility required.

*Please note that families are responsible for the cost of camp, Arc of Onondaga only provides the one-to-one support.

SITE-BASED RESPITE

The site-based respite program is designed to provide short term respite for family members of children with developmental disabilities, ages 8-18. Running in the evenings or on weekends, families drop their child(ren) off at an Arc of Onondaga location with Arc of Onondaga staff. During which Arc staff provide support through a variety of activities including art and crafts, music, movies, games, and homework help. Respite is often offered during Art Surge classes.

ART SURGE

Art Surge is an art program for ages 8-18 who have been diagnosed with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Utilizing arts as an outlet, Art Surge supports the social, creative, and sensory needs of the individuals it serves by allowing participants an opportunity to understand the creative process from conception to completion – promoting communication, self-expression, trust and socialization skills. The program offers various forms of artistic expression that revolve around a theme that culminates into a final project at the end of the year that may include various activities such as photography, painting/watercolors, drawing, fabric design, sculpture, food design, dance, puppet making, yoga and movement.
Classes may also be held during the site-based youth respite program but will still be open to those not receiving respite service.

RECREATION FOR ADULTS

The Medicaid Waiver Respite program is designed to provide short term respite for family members of individuals with developmental disabilities. Individuals must be 18 years of age or older and live in a non-certified residence (such as with a family member) in Onondaga County. Some of the activities that individuals have been involved in are dances, movie making classes, acting with The Redhouse Arts Center and much, much more! Transportation to and from events is provided for most activities.

*Please contact Sarah at [email protected] for more information.

FAMILY REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM

Family reimbursement through the FSS program is provided to help families by easing the expenses of providing care for family members with intellectual or developmental disabilities. The program provides funds to assist individuals and their families with accessing needed respite services and goods. Funding is intended to complement, not supplement, other support and assistance programs. To be eligible to receive/be enrolled in FSS, a person must: 1. Have established eligibility for OPWDD services; and 2. Reside with one or more non-paid family member (i.e., biological, adoptive, or extended family or non-paid caregiver in the absence of biological, adoptive or extended family)

*Please contact Shannon at [email protected] for more information.