ARC Community Services and Applewild School Collaborate

ARC Community Services and Applewild School, a private school in Fitchburg, may be from two very different “places” but when they gather genuine friendships are formed. About 7 years ago, a mother who was connected to both the ARC and Applewild came up with the idea of forming a partnership between the individuals who are served by the ARC and the third graders at Applewild School.  Seven years later, the partnership has become a much-anticipated tradition for all participants.

In September, Applewild’s third grade teacher Michelle Janoschek and I sketch out a plan for monthly visits to take place throughout the school year.  The schedule includes an orientation for the children, providing an outline of the different activities planned and an overview of disabilities with an emphasis on the abilities of their ARC partners.  Activities include craft projects, group dynamics, gardening, planting marigolds in the community flower boxes, and ending the year with a picnic.

The program serves the needs of both the third graders and their adult partners. Many of the individuals who we support at the ARC take on the role of foster parent or grandparent to the children and they look forward to “going to see the kids” with each visit. The children come to appreciate their adult partners’ unique skills, interests, and personalities and look forward to each visit as well. 

Head of School Christopher B. Williamson originally saw the partnership as part of the school’s commitment to exploring all aspects of diversity; while it continues to serve that purpose, it is much more about appreciating the uniqueness of each individual and building relationships.  Students throughout the school look forward to connecting with the partners who they first met in third grade when the ARC returns to the school to attend the school concerts and plays. The ARC clients are generally the biggest supporters in the audience and they return to their day programs with stories for all, which results in more people interested in attending the next event.

The collaboration between the ARC and Applewild School has assisted in developing meaningful friendships between the ARC adults and the third graders. We each play an integral part in making this process as truly amazing as it has become throughout the years and are confident this will only continue to grow with each coming year.

About the Author: Cheryl Robillard

Cheryl Robillard has over twenty five years experience working in the human services field. She currently is the Director of Day Services at Alliance for Resource Management. Cheryl has an AS in Therapeutic Recreation from Mitchell College and many years spent as a Special Olympic coach and partner.