Programs and Services
We offer a variety of programs and services for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities and their families. We provide programs, information and resources to assist in their journey. We also raise awareness through public outreach and media.
Parents For Parents is a support group for families of children with developmental disabilities and their families. We help the individuals and their families by providing programs, information and resources to assist in their journey. We also help by raising awareness through public outreach and media. Our Parents for Parents program is partnering with ESU7 and The Arc of Norfolk for the first Community Resource Fair on Sunday, April 21st from 1:00-4:00 at The Columbus Community Center - downtown Columbus. This event will have informational booths for families and individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. There will also be kids activities and informational speakers. There is no cost to attend.
Pals N' Play are play therapy sessions designed to aid in the growth and development of school age children (5-21) with a disability through the use of a variety of fine and gross motor activities, exercise, dance, crafts and just A LOT of FUN!! The children are paired with a "pal" to help with the activities. The program strives to promote social interaction, expand motor skills and develop interpersonal skills. We focus on the child's strengths and help build friendships with peers. It is also a time of respite for caregivers, as siblings are welcome, too! Registration is required!
Summer Friends Special Needs Camp is a summer day camp experience planned especially for school age children (age 5-21) with special needs. Campers are paired with a "pal" for support at this four day camp held from 9:oo a.m. to noon, Monday thru Thursday for one week in the summer. The week is concluded with a special Talent Show/Family Night on Thursday evening. This Summer Camp strives to promote social interaction, expand motor skills and develop interpersonal skills. We focus on the child's strengths and help build friendships with peers. Registration is required and camp is limited to 24 campers.
Columbus People First Chapter is a chapter of a state advocacy organization for adults (age 18 and over) with intellectual and developmental disabilities. People First is run by its own board consisting of self-advocates. This group encourages its members to have the confidence to see themselves as PEOPLE FIRST. Meetings are held the third Monday of the month from 7:00-8:30 p.m. at Columbus United Methodist Church. Stop by to find out more and become a part of our PEOPLE FIRST chapter.
Project Guardian Angel is a special project of The Arc of Platte County in partnership with the Columbus Police Department to help ensure the safety of individuals with disabilities in the community through a database housed at the police station.
Community Resource Fair is a free community event for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as their families and guardians, seeking out opportunities to expand and explore knowledge from reputable local and state wide agencies and programs.
BUILDING BRIGHTER HORIZONS FOR TOMORROW, ONE PUZZLE PIECE AT A TIME
This is coordinated by:
The Arc of Platte County
The Arc of Norfolk
Nebraska Transition
Educational Service Unit 7
Services
Information, Networking and Advocacy through newsletters, mailings, e-mails and various programs.
Collaboration with organizations and individuals working on disability issues.
Public Education and Community Awareness on the contributions and needs of individuals with developmental disabilities as well as preventable causes of developmental disabilities such as fetal alcohol syndrome and shaken baby syndrome.
Support and Mediation during meetings with school officials or service coordination to discuss IEPs, IFSPs, IPPs, Behavior plans, services received, etc.
Lending Library with a variety of materials available for checkout by parents, educators, self-advocates, providers and interested individuals.
Legislative Updates
