SIDNEY — Shelby County Arc supports individuals with developmental disabilities by providing year-round social and recreational activities. The organization will use its Match Day funds to continue providing a variety of experiences for individuals served.
Programming includes a week-long summer day camp for students, a three-day overnight camp for middle schoolers known as Camp Dalanda, a monthly night out for three different age groups (young children, teens and adults), swim and skate nights for families, and a bowling league.
“Not only are these events popular and fun to attend, they provide opportunities to try new things, increase independence, boost confidence and develop social skills,” said Kendra Hamaker, executive director. “We serve approximately 120 individuals of all ages and from all parts of Shelby County in any given year.”
A large percentage of Shelby County Arc’s annual budget comes from sources that it counts on each year, but things are always changing and gaps remain here and there that have to be filled. For example, earlier this year a longtime fundraiser had to be discontinued and the organization will need to make up for that loss.
Shelby County Arc also learned recently that they will have to find a new way to bus their campers for field trips in the future, which may affect the cost of outings.
“It’s unexpected ups and downs like these that keep our fundraising needs in flux,” said Hamaker. “Match Day is a great way for us to bring in some additional funds that we can plug in where and when they’re needed – and it’s nice to know those funds come from local individuals who want to help!”
To support Shelby County Arc on Match Day, gifts must be made payable to the Community Foundation of Shelby County with: Match/Arc noted on the memo or in an accompanying note or form. Details and forms are available at the Community Foundation website at www.commfoun.com and at Shelby County Arc. Gifts must be received on or before Nov. 27 to be eligible for up to $5,000 in matching money.
