The Arc of Monroe prioritizes people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and the services they need to live full, independent lives in our community.
Many of the programs within The Arc focus on this aspect of independence, whether it’s through their role in a program, a job they have, or certain skills. And once someone is nearing the end of their program, progress doesn’t stop there. There are options for that person to grow and further their independence, whether that be in a different program that may allow the person to gain more skills on their own or employment, where the end goal is to eventually become self-sufficient.
When someone finishes a program, it is not the end of the road. It only opens up more opportunities and new paths to take. Carmela Whaley is the Admissions Coordinator for The Arc of Monroe. She says once this happens, it’s time to discuss next steps with the Admissions and Engagement team.
“Typically, team meetings occur to discuss next steps whether it be an internal movement to an alternate program or even a different service option. Our department, Admissions and Engagement, can discuss all of The Arc’s service offerings, coordinate tours, explain the referral application process, and next steps,” says Carmela.
The opportunities available to someone transitioning out of their current program are dependent on their personalized goals. These goals could be better fit for Community Prevocational programs or Supported Employment services. At The Arc of Monroe, we have a plethora of programs including some that focus on college-aged skills, some that focus on autism and provide a sensory-friendly environment, some that focus on more community involvement, and some that focus on various levels of job skills. Through team collaboration and communication within the program staff and the Admissions and Engagement team, The Arc is able to find the right next step for someone.
“Our department is there to assist in any way possible to ensure a smooth, streamlined transition from program tour coordination to the completion of the referral application and required paperwork, which hopefully leads to enrollment.”
The ultimate goal for people in these programs is to become independent enough to become employed and make money for themselves. Carmela says The Arc wants to be promoting people moving onto the least restrictive service setting that can still support their needs and personalized goals, while promoting employment first.
She goes on to say “Anyone who wants to work, can, and our amazing program staff are there to help them achieve that goal.”
Carmela Whaley, Admissions Coordinator
Carmela Whaley started her career with The Arc of Monroe as an Individual Support Specialist, getting hands on experience supporting people at Fairport Day Services back in 2009. She later returned to agency in 2015 to join the Community Outreach and Enrollment team, which has since been renamed the Admissions & Engagement team. Her role as Admissions Coordinator has been to support people inquiring about program information, coordinating program tours, and overseeing the referral application process. It’s her responsibility to know about the programs offered by The Arc of Monroe so she can best support people to reach their personal and professional goals within our programs and services. Carmela lives with her husband and 5-year-old daughter in Irondequoit and have loved getting out in the community as much as they can, whether that’s visiting libraries or taking their daughter to playgrounds.