Ask The Arc

The Arc of Frederick County was founded by volunteer parents who had a vision of making the Frederick community a place where people with and without disabilities could flourish together.  Their original dream continues to live on today with a rich tradition of volunteers embracing the mission of inclusion.

Volunteers support The Arc in a variety of ways.  Individuals and groups can share their time, skills, and connections to strengthen The Arc's efforts.  Parents' Day Out provides safe and fun activities to children with disabilities and their siblings each month to give parents a much-needed break.  this program was created by a group of volunteer Girl Scouts who wanted to share their care-giving skills.  This support was greatly appreciated by parents and has been thriving for two decades.  People of all ages volunteer and are mentored by Arc Support Coordinators who facilitate the day.  Parents' Day Out is a great introduction for new volunteers, groups, or even families to volunteer together.

Individuals can volunteer to share their talents and expertise to introduce people to new skills.  A volunteer provides mock interviews for people as they hone their employment skills; another leads yoga sessions to practice mindfulness; and a group of seniors teach knitting and sewing skills.  Frederick Salsa has offered free dance lessons so people of all abilities can learn together.  Each opportunity enhances people's skills that they can carry with them into the Frederick community.

To cultivate future leaders to carry on inclusion, The Arc relishes incorporating student volunteers.  Middle and high school students can volunteer to learn how to advance inclusion at their schools.  Students can earn student service learning hours, make connections for job references, and their experiences help them stand out on college applications.  This past summer, a volunteer from Frederick Community College provided administrative support and a student from Vanderbilt University supported our Culinary Training and Hospitality Program.  This fall, we are excited to partner with the Hood College Women's Soccer Team for athletic clinics and social opportunities.

The Arc thanks the Frederick community for generously donating their time for more than 65 years of expanding inclusion.  People, groups, and families interested in volunteering can contact jvijil@arcfc.org or (301) 663-0909 x112 for a warm and friendly introduction where we match your skills to support our mission.