For the first time in 50 years, self-sufficient program may need rescue

When clients of the Arc of Benton County get together on weekday afternoons, it might appear to outsiders that the event is nothing more than a pizza party or a night of bowling. But to the developmentally disabled clients who benefit from the Arc’s afternoon socialization program, there’s a lot more to it.

“The real critical issue is friendships,” said Arc of Benton County Executive Director Karin Frederick. “All people with disabilities are at risk of isolation and depression. They have limited employment opportunities, limited funds and limited access to the community.”

For the last 50 years, the Arc of Benton County has been self-sufficient, operating on revenue from several thrift stores and a Bingo hall as well as money from United Way and other sources, supplemented by occasional community fundraisers such as art sales and auctions. But this year, some changes have affected Arc revenue sources.

• The construction of the couplet in Philomath last year diverted traffic from the Arc thrift store there for six months.

• The Arc-run bingo hall in Springfield had to be relocated, which also temporarily halted that revenue source.

When all the money was counted, the Corvallis chapter of the Arc is facing a $50,000 shortfall, which is putting its most expensive program, the afternoon recreation and socialization activities, in jeopardy. The program was created 20 years ago to give adults with developmental disabilities a chance to be involved in their community, spend time together and enjoy supervised events. Caregivers and parents can take a break in the afternoons, knowing their loved ones are safe and having a good time.

Frederick said the Arc’s financial situation is expected to stabilize as traffic returns to the thrift store and bingo hall. But that may not happen in time to preserve the expensive socialization program this summer. In August, the Tuesday afternoon activities have been canceled altogether, and the agency is turning to the community to ask for financial donations to help it through.

“It’s new to us,” Frederick said. “We’ve always just supported ourselves.”

Although the Arc of Oregon holds an annual holiday fundraiser in the area, the Arc of Benton County has not traditionally asked for community donations, and the money raised by the Arc of Oregon goes to the statewide organization, not to the local chapter.

The afternoon recreation and socialization program is offered four days a week through the Arc, and provides a bridge between the work schedules of many clients, who work part time at various employers in town, and the evening, when caregivers or family clients come home from work. By keeping them active and supervised in the afternoons, Frederick said, many parents can still hold down full-time jobs and then resume their caretaking duties in the evenings for those clients who are not living independently or in group homes.

“For a couple of participants, their families wouldn’t have jobs (if it weren’t for the program),” Frederick said.

Ben Wald, whose daughter Bonnie has been involved with the Benton County Arc for decades, said as a counselor he recognizes the crucial importance of structured socialization in his daughter’s life.

“A group like this is very important,” Wald said. “They learn how to relate to their peers, and observe how people ask questions. It becomes their friendship group.”

Wald believes that there is a direct correlation between socialization activities and how individuals function in general.

“I’ve advocated that when an individual is having difficulties, staff should look at whether their socialization needs are being met,” he said.

Marisa Reboa, 27, said the Arc’s afternoon program is important to her.

“I think it’s a wonderful opportunity to get together and socialize,” Reboa said. She has Down syndrome and lives with her parents. She volunteers once a week at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center and works out five days a week at a gym. She takes part in the bowling and swimming activities organized by the Arc.

Reboa, while waiting for her bread sticks to arrive, summed it up best.

“I’m happy to know that I can be a part (of something), and I’m not alone in the community.”

How to help

Tax deductible donations can be made to the Arc of Benton County, 414 N.W. Fourth St., Corvallis, 97330.

Shoppers can also help by patronizing the Arc’s two local thrift stores, the Corvallis Arc Resale Corner at 928 N.W. Beca Ave., and the Philomath Arc Thrift Store at 936 Main St.

What clients say about the Arc

“I love meeting at the swimming pool.”

— Jackie White




“Friday is bowling. I’m good.”

— Chris Askew




“I like to do art. I like swimming in the fall, and being with Sally.”

— Bev Powell




“I think it’s a wonderful organization. We get together and do stuff.”

— Marisa Reboa