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 career services please contact:
Kim
Spahn
Asst. Executive Director
phone
(914) 428-8330, ext.3107
fax
(914) 428-0322
kspahn
@westchesterarc.org
Westchester Arc
Herbert Katzenberg Center
121 Westmoreland Avenue
White Plains, NY 10606
(914) 949-9300
info@westchesterarc.org
24-hour
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(914) 949-8200
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Claire S. on graduation day.
S.T.A.R. Intern Pursues
Legal Career
Last June, Claire S. graduated from high school and began her journey into the adult world—a transition she was prepared for, thanks to Westchester Arc’s S.T.A.R. (Students in Transition Accessing Resources) program.
S.T.A.R. partners with local high schools to help students, 15 and over, prepare for the working world. The program brings together family, school faculty and the Charles R. Kingsley Life Planning Center to develop each student’s career plan.
Claire worked one-on-one with a S.T.A.R. career planner, who learned that she was interested in government affairs and aspired to being an attorney. Staff then identified an internship at Yorktown Town Hall.
“The internship was a perfect match and exactly the kind of experience Claire needed,” comments mom Cheryl. “Westchester Arc really took the time to understand my daughter. They knew when to take a step back and let Claire figure things out on her own, which she really appreciated. Yet staff was always there if she needed anything.”
Claire thrived at Yorktown Town Hall, thanks to its “hands-on” approach. Every day, she performed different tasks—logging vital records, issuing marriage licenses and processing permits—with enthusiasm and precision. She also fielded phone calls and greeted guests, building valuable social skills.
“Before she started the internship, Claire had trouble talking to people she didn’t know. She would hardly answer the phone at home and refused to call a store or restaurant for information. Working at Yorktown definitely helped her feel more comfortable and confident with others,” continues Cheryl.
“When Claire grew curious about the way our own town handles its government affairs, she called the town clerk and asked for a tour. She also delivered a presentation describing her internship to a large school audience. I’d never seen Claire talk in front of a large audience before. She was so calm and poised, I was very proud of her. I’m truly amazed at Claire’s progress. We’re thankful to S.T.A.R. for helping her locate the internship. It was an opportunity we would have never found on our own.”
Since graduating from high school, Claire has continued to achieve new heights.
This fall, Claire headed to S.U.N.Y. Albany where she plans on majoring in political science. She lives in one of the university dorms, marking the first time she has ever lived away from home.
“Socially, she’s very prepared—again, thanks to S.T.A.R. and the internship,” concludes Cheryl.
“I’m very excited about going to college," says Claire. I’m looking forward to getting a good education and working at another internship, maybe within the state government.”