FSU PC’S Early Childhood Autism Program partners with Arc of the Bay to serve adult clients

The Early Childhood Autism Program at Florida State University Panama City is partnering with The Arc of the Bay to provide therapy services to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The collaboration, Cultivating Abilities with Resources Education and Support (CARES), was made possible through a $25,000 grant from the St. Joe Community Foundation. The grant was formally presented during The Arc of the Bay's 10th Annual Kohl's Fashion Show on July 25, as community members, supporters and partners gathered to celebrate inclusion and learn about the new initiative.

The CARES Program will merge the strengths of two organizations dedicated to serving individuals with disabilities and their families. ECAP will expand its applied behavior analysis therapy services and expertise to support the Arc of the Bay’s Adult Day Training Program. By combining expertise and resources, the CARES Program will create a more connected support system for families impacted by developmental disabilities while strengthening opportunities for education, advocacy and long-term success throughout the Bay County community.

“We are incredibly grateful to the St. Joe Community Foundation for believing in this partnership and investing in the future of the families we serve,” said Ron Sharpe, CEO and president at The Arc of the Bay. “The CARES Program represents what is possible when organizations come together with a shared mission. This funding allows us to build meaningful support systems that will have a lasting impact on our community.”

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to serving individuals with developmental disabilities across the lifespan,” said Amy Polick, development director of FSU ECAP. “We are excited to work alongside The Arc of the Bay to support their vocational training and life-skills programs, while also creating new opportunities for the families who depend on us.”

The announcement reinforces the dedication of ECAP and The Arc of the Bay to building partnerships that enhance services and create new opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

To learn more about FSU ECAP, visit pc.fsu.edu/ecap. For more information about The Arc of the Bay, visit www.bayarc.org.