Our mission is to empower children and adults with developmental disabilities to achieve their potential based on personal choices, abilities and interests...

For more information about our recreational services contact:

Dave Gasparri
Director of Recreational Services
(914) 428-8330
ext. 3218
dgasparri
@westchesterarc.org

Westchester Arc
Herbert Katzenberg Center
121 Westmoreland Avenue
White Plains, NY 10606
(914) 949-9300
info@westchesterarc.org

24-hour
Crisis Intervention:
(914) 949-8200

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The new X-Men pack a powerful punch. Pictured from left are: Rogue, Mary Beth W., Carolyn H., Julissa L., Storm, Chris M. and Jose G.

Lights, Action…Echo!

Westchester Arc Tours Universal Studios

Westchester Arc’s Club Echo, a recreation and travel program for adults with developmental disabilities, recently visited Universal Resorts in Orlando, Florida, where vacationers road high-speed coasters, interacted with story book characters and relived scenes from their favorite movies.

Six travelers spent four days touring Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure with recreation specialist Annabel Bayon and staff writer Mark Williams. Favorite attractions included Shrek:4-D, Men in Black: Alien Attack, Jaws and The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman.

Carolyn H. relives classic Hollywood.

Thrill-seekers Jose G., Carolyn H, and Chris M. came face-to-face with ferocious dinosaurs on the Jurassic Park River Adventure and dodged fireballs and ancient demons during Revenge of the Mummy.

“I thought the mummy was going to get us, but we showed him!” boasted Chris.

“It was really cool to see dinosaurs come to life in Jurassic Park,” added Carolyn.

Later, Mark and Jose battled Dueling Dragons and experienced the big, green rage of the Incredible Hulk Coaster.

“I love roller coasters” commented Jose. “This is the best vacation.”

“I think I screamed louder than anyone,” joked Mark. “I’m a big fan of roller coasters, too, but these rides were intense! The second time we went on the Hulk, Jose started yelling, too. Not because he was afraid, but because he didn’t want me to ‘scream alone.’”

Those seeking a slightly gentler experience were charmed by attractions modeled after The Cat in The Hat and One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish. Everyone enjoyed posing with super heroes Wolverine, Captain America and Cyclops and shopping for souvenirs.

Jose and Mark conquered Dueling Dragons

“One of my favorite moments was when we all went on Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barge,” comments Annabel. It was a water ride based on the cartoon and we all got drenched. Everyone was laughing and having a great time. Mark and I definitley got it the worst, which made the experience even more hilarious.”

After an action-packed day, travelers dined at the Hard Rock Cafe and the Olive Garden, strolled along CitiWalk and relaxed by the pool.

During the plane ride home, a fellow passenger recognized Jose from Stop & Shop in North White Plains, where he bags groceries. “Did you have a good time on vacation?” she asked.

Mary Beth W. flies with the fishes.

“The best! I wish I could stay in Orlando for a longer time,” responded Jose. “Hey, Mark. How about you and I go back to Orlando for six months?”

“Sorry, buddy. I have to get back home. I have a story to write.”

“About us?”

“Indeed. I’m going to make you famous.”

“But this nice lady recognized me. I’m already a celebrity!”

Club Echo gives individuals 18 years of age and older the chance to enjoy vacations with their friends, while accompanied by knowledgeable, dependable staff. Day trips are taken to local sports venues, theaters, museums and other sites of interest. Weekends, four-day mini-excursions and longer trips have included Lake George, Cape Cod and Las Vegas.

Vacationers "take the plunge" on the Jurassic Park River Adventure.