Riviera Beach, Fla. (February 17, 2023) – The Arc of Palm Beach County aims to build acceptance and inclusion for all children to help them thrive in the community. Thanks to a continued partnership between The Arc and Prime Time Palm Beach County, youth with disabilities will continue to have improved access to high-quality experiences in after-school and summer programs.
The Arc’s Community Inclusion Program coaches, supports, and provides training to 514 out-of-school time (OST) practitioners each year to ensure that every child can participate in OST programs alongside their peers. The program focuses on how to implement interactive activities and strategies that complement the strengths and abilities of all youth. Through the effective use of visuals, person-first language, activity design, and room setup, practitioners foster an environment that encourages communication and enhances social-emotional wellness.
“The Community Inclusion Program gives practitioners the tools and skills needed to promote the inclusion and acceptance of all youth in the community,” said Kimberly McCarten, president and CEO of The Arc of Palm Beach County. “When children with disabilities can share their unique talents and interact positively with their peers and adults, other youth also benefit from the healthy social relationships built through understanding and trust.”
The Community Inclusion Program is made possible with support from Prime Time Palm Beach County, which receives significant funding from the Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County. Prime Time has supported The Arc for nearly 20 years. This year, the program will support an additional Community Inclusion Specialist, enabling The Arc to coach more practitioners and enhance the program’s impact.
Please click the link below for a Word version of this release and a high-res photo, courtesy of The Arc of Palm Beach County:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1esnYGlqTK_BYYlFJ7PDZSLXaf2qUk3da?usp=share_link
About The Arc of Palm Beach County
The Arc is changing the conversation around disabilities by defying definitions, inspiring possibilities, and improving the lives of the people we serve, their families, and our community. Since 1958, The Arc has envisioned a community where every person feels welcome, connected, and accepted.
About Prime Time Palm Beach County
Prime Time Palm Beach County is a nonprofit organization that provides resources and support for out-of-school time professionals to develop programs that inspire children to be their best, and allow them to thrive socially and academically. Prime Time’s integrated model of services is one of the strongest, most comprehensive and well-respected systems for measuring and improving out-of-school time program quality in the nation. To learn more about Prime Time Palm Beach County, visit www.primetimepbc.org.
About Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County
Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County, a special district created by Palm Beach County voters, provides leadership, funding, and research on behalf of the county’s children, so they grow up healthy, safe, and strong. To learn more, please visit www.cscpbc.org or everyparentpbc.org
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