The ARC of Westmoreland Adult Training Facility

About The ARC of Westmoreland Adult Training Facility

The Arc of Westmoreland, a private nonprofit corporation, was founded in 1954 by a group of 13 parents meeting at the Irwin Park Playground in Irwin, PA. These families recognized the need for community services for children and adults with disabilities. Since its founding and official incorporation in 1962, the volunteer-driven organization continues to grow in scope and commitment as one of the largest providers of services for children and adults with special needs in Westmoreland County. On July 1, 2009, The Arc of Westmoreland and ACHIEVA family of organizations unanimously approved an affiliation. Thus began a new chapter which gave both organizations an opportunity to expand supports and services to children and adults with disabilities in Southwestern PA, as well as to become more efficient through economies of scale. The Adult Training Facility (ATF) provides services and support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who require supervision and assistance in meeting personal needs. The Arc of Westmoreland is committed to enhancing the quality of life of these individuals by teaching new skills, maintaining current abilities and providing the encouragement to demonstrate those skills while participating in activities and community outings. In the Adult Training Facility, students are offered training in daily living skills, including; personal hygiene, feeding, oral hygiene and self-help skills. Students also work on cleaning, laundry and kitchen (set table, wipe table, load dishwasher) skills. Fine motor skills are developed through a variety of packaging, sorting and collating activities. Gross motor skill work includes recreational sports (non-contact), balance activities and a physical exercise program. Students receive training in social skills, problem solving skills and communication skills. A total communication approach is used with most individuals. The program also offers a sensory processing area including; aromatherapy, massagers, passive range of motion, tactile activities, relaxation techniques, cause/effect activities and environmental awareness. Arts & Crafts and Music activities are a part of the regular weekly schedule. Students may be offered community integration activities, depending on their individual schedule. The Adult Training Facility Program provides care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities between the ages of 18 and 59.