LARC receives funding for new Autism Resource Center
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LARC has been awarded funding of $150,000.00 from the Robert Rosenheim Foundation for the creation and development of an autism resource center in Torrington. The funds will be paid out over three phases in a three-year period. “We are very happy to support the work that the resource center will provide to Litchfield County youth and their families,” noted Michael Samartino, board member of the Robert Rosenheim Foundation.
“LARC is deeply gratified for the support from the Robert Rosenheim Foundation,” said Michael Menard, LARC executive director. “This certainly is one of the most important projects for the city of Torrington and surrounding towns. We are honored to have the support of the foundation.”
Each of the three phases will feature different components to address needs of parents, children and young adults. Revisions and adjustments will be made as needed. Phase 1 will establish LARC as a resource for parents whose children have been diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). LARC’s Autism Resource Center will be staffed with experts who are trained in ASD and the challenges parents and children face. The Autism Resource Center will include an activity space furnished to appeal to children with ASD where they can play while their parents access information. There will be space for parent support groups and special events. A fenced in outdoor area will be available during warmer weather as a place of respite where parents and children can relax and socialize. Additionally this outdoor space will be available for special events and activities.
Phase 2 will include the launch of a high school program. Services will include assistance with homework, counseling for teens, as well as a comfortable space for students to relax and socialize with peers. Special activities will be offered in a variety of disciplines including cooking, music and art therapy.
Phase 3 will offer comprehensive preparation for employment, assistance with independent living, financial planning and more. The goal is to have Phase 3 fully operational in three years.
According to Menard, “we have witnessed over the last several years an increase in the number of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Though LARC has provided services over the years to individuals with autism in our Transitions, Vocational, Residential and summer camp programs, the agency has not provided a comprehensive program. We believe that the Autism Resource Center will be a great asset to the community for families preparing their sons and daughters for competitive employment and living independently in the community.” During the past several years LARC has worked with area high schools, providing transition services for students. The resource center will build and expand on these services to meet a broader need for students with ASD and their families.
“We are excited to be a part of funding this important resource for our community,” said Diane Libby, Robert Rosenheim Foundation board member. LARC is securing additional funding from the community to support the entire three-year project with the goal of developing sustainable funding sources for the center.
“LARC is deeply gratified for the support from the Robert Rosenheim Foundation,” said Michael Menard, LARC executive director. “This certainly is one of the most important projects for the city of Torrington and surrounding towns. We are honored to have the support of the foundation.”
Each of the three phases will feature different components to address needs of parents, children and young adults. Revisions and adjustments will be made as needed. Phase 1 will establish LARC as a resource for parents whose children have been diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). LARC’s Autism Resource Center will be staffed with experts who are trained in ASD and the challenges parents and children face. The Autism Resource Center will include an activity space furnished to appeal to children with ASD where they can play while their parents access information. There will be space for parent support groups and special events. A fenced in outdoor area will be available during warmer weather as a place of respite where parents and children can relax and socialize. Additionally this outdoor space will be available for special events and activities.
Phase 2 will include the launch of a high school program. Services will include assistance with homework, counseling for teens, as well as a comfortable space for students to relax and socialize with peers. Special activities will be offered in a variety of disciplines including cooking, music and art therapy.
Phase 3 will offer comprehensive preparation for employment, assistance with independent living, financial planning and more. The goal is to have Phase 3 fully operational in three years.
According to Menard, “we have witnessed over the last several years an increase in the number of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Though LARC has provided services over the years to individuals with autism in our Transitions, Vocational, Residential and summer camp programs, the agency has not provided a comprehensive program. We believe that the Autism Resource Center will be a great asset to the community for families preparing their sons and daughters for competitive employment and living independently in the community.” During the past several years LARC has worked with area high schools, providing transition services for students. The resource center will build and expand on these services to meet a broader need for students with ASD and their families.
“We are excited to be a part of funding this important resource for our community,” said Diane Libby, Robert Rosenheim Foundation board member. LARC is securing additional funding from the community to support the entire three-year project with the goal of developing sustainable funding sources for the center.
In LARC's Autism Resource Center you will
The Staff
The staff of Transitions believes in a team approach and consists of a program coordinator, certified special education teacher, transition/vocational coaches, behavior specialists, clinical counseling, support and related services consultants. We consult with CT State agencies including DDS and BRS as needed for planning and provision of adult services upon graduation.
The Location
Transitions is located in state-of-the-art space at LARC (314 Main Street, Torrington). The classroom includes a fully equipped kitchen, Smart Board, laundry area, and accessible restrooms. The community of Torrington and surrounding towns serve as the "extended classroom".
For More Information
To learn more about Transitions, please fill out the form below, call 860-482-9364 x350.
The staff of Transitions believes in a team approach and consists of a program coordinator, certified special education teacher, transition/vocational coaches, behavior specialists, clinical counseling, support and related services consultants. We consult with CT State agencies including DDS and BRS as needed for planning and provision of adult services upon graduation.
The Location
Transitions is located in state-of-the-art space at LARC (314 Main Street, Torrington). The classroom includes a fully equipped kitchen, Smart Board, laundry area, and accessible restrooms. The community of Torrington and surrounding towns serve as the "extended classroom".
For More Information
To learn more about Transitions, please fill out the form below, call 860-482-9364 x350.
The Arc of Litchfield County, Inc. | Privacy Notice | Title VI Compliance
314 Main Street, Torrington CT 06790 | 860-482-9364 | larc@litchfieldarc.org | EIN 06-6075006