Eligibility & Enrollment
The Community Outreach and Enrollment Department at The Arc of Monroe is your first step for services within the agency.
Getting Started
Your initial contact with the department will determine if you meet the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) eligibility requirements. If you meet the requirements, you can begin the referral process and explore opportunities within The Arc of Monroe. If you have not received eligibility from OPWDD, the department can also assist you with this process. The Community Outreach and Enrollment department also works closely with community agencies such as the Rochester City School District, Finger Lakes DDRO, ACCES-VR, and other providers to enhance the opportunities and connections for individuals needing services.
Referrals to Job Path Employment Services occur though ACCES-VR. They can be contacted at 585-238-2900. Community Information Sessions at ACCES-VR explain the vocational rehabilitation process and occur every Thursday at 10am and 1:15pm (ASL interpreter available) at Rochester District Office, 109 South Union Street, Rochester, NY 14607. Reservations are not required.
What is OPWDD?
OPWDD coordinates services for people in New York who have developmental disabilities through a network of nonprofit agencies. The Arc of Monroe is one of the nonprofit agencies that OPWDD oversees. Visit OPWDD website for more information.
What is ACCES-VR?
Adult Career and Continuing Education Services -Vocational Rehabilitation (ACCES-VR) provides a variety of employment related services for eligible students and adults with disabilities. Services focus on helping individuals to prepare for, obtain and sustain employment relative to their personal strengths and goals. Visit ACCES-VR website for more information.
Are you Eligible?
Matt Fico | Director of Admissions and Engagement
Matt oversees community engagement by providing guidance and information to schools, community care coordinators and families looking for adult services, through the referral process, while also providing support to leadership for all Arc programs and services.
Carmela Whaley | Admissions Coordinator
Carmela manages all activities related to The Arc’s referral application process for programs such as Community Habilitation, Community Prevocational, Family Support Services – Behavior Management, Group Day Habilitation, Recreation-Respite, and Residential Habilitation service areas.
Julia Gallagher | Engagement Coordinator
Julia manages all activities related to community outreach and education in the recruitment of people with IDD and with a focus on aging out students and their families who are interested in enrolling in The Arc’s programs and services.
Not sure where to start or have a question?
Please reach out to our Community Outreach Coordinator at (585) 672-2222, or fill out the form below. We will be happy to walk you through the process.