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

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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“Choice” Classes

Celia N., Danielle A., John T. and Lucinda L. enjoy the collaborative process.

Twelve participants in Westchester Arc’s “Choices” program are developing language and technical skills through agency-sponsored media classes held at WIHD (Westchester Institute for Human Development).

One of their assignments is to produce a weekly newsletter, which they’ve dubbed Life News. The publication features personal essays, interviews, restaurant reviews and photos. It also celebrates individuality and diversity. One recent article discussed how students spent their Easter and Passover holidays.

“This class is beneficial in many ways. Students learn literacy and computer skills—a prerequisite for anyone wishing to work in the community,” comments Mashal Gonzalez, community integration coordinator. “They also have a chance to convey their thoughts and feelings and that encourages self-advocacy.”

David S. concentrates on newsletter articles.

Another portion of the curriculum, “Through the Lens,” enables students to experiment with both film and digital cameras. They have developed film, used a computer to edit photos and learned to adjust camera settings to accommodate for low lighting, red eye and other environmental factors.

“The great thing about this class is that it brings out each student’s perspective on life. It gives them a chance to be creative and express themselves, while learning new skills,” continues Mashal. Jennifer C. loves looking “Through the Lens.”  “This is great experience for my job goal —working for MTV,” she says.

“Choices” is a hybrid of day habilitation and supported employment services, designed to empower young adults with development disabilities and help them achieve social inclusion. Unlike site-based day habilitation, services are delivered entirely in the community. In contrast to supported employment, participants work and volunteer at community sites and are supervised by staff at all times.

Aurea V. and Seth G. outline story ideas.

“As its title suggests,
our program is about giving young adults different options. Classes at WIHD and
all other activities are based on the wants
and skills of each participant,” concludes Mashal.