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The Arc of Greater Williamsburg Seeks $1 Million for New Facility

Community members come together to support The Arc of Greater Williamsburg's funding efforts.

News Summary

The Arc of Greater Williamsburg is urgently seeking to raise $1 million within four weeks to purchase a property in James City County. This facility will better support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities by providing dedicated spaces for various programs. With about 250 families currently served, the need for improved facilities is critical, especially as they plan for a larger $2.5 million fundraising campaign later this year.

Williamsburg – The Arc of Greater Williamsburg, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, urgently needs to raise $1 million in cash or pledges within the next four weeks. This funding is essential to secure a property located at 438 McLaws Circle in James City County, which the organization aims to purchase to better serve the community.

The Executive Director of The Arc, Pam McGregor, highlighted the organization’s pressing need for dedicated space, which is backed by a space needs analysis conducted by a local architect. The analysis recommends that the organization require between 7,000-10,000 square feet to house administrative offices, day-program spaces, and arts and cultural centers. Currently, The Arc operates across multiple locations without a dedicated facility, serving approximately 250 families in Williamsburg, James City, and York counties.

In early May, The Arc signed a purchase agreement for the proposed property and placed $50,000 in refundable earnest money. With the aim of avoiding large debt, the organization has plans for a larger fundraising campaign set for August, with a goal of raising $2.5 million if they successfully secure the initial $1 million needed.

The property in question is a single-story building that features a two-story enclosed courtyard, making it suitable for the services The Arc plans to offer in the future. The organization currently provides various programs aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including educational, health, wellness, life skills, cultural enrichment, as well as social and recreational activities.

The day program currently serves about 20 individuals four days a week at the Abram Frink Jr. Community Center in Grove, illustrating the limited nature of their existing facilities. Moreover, young adults face significant challenges when they age out of special education programs at age 22, often leading to isolation. The Arc endeavors to counteract this issue through its various support services.

One of these services is the Wheels4Work program, which provides employment opportunities for participants, along with necessary transportation services. The organization aims to engage the community and leverage support from local foundations, organizations, and students from the College of William & Mary to enhance their offerings.

The Arc of Greater Williamsburg is part of a national network of approximately 600 chapters and was established in 1976. The organization’s ongoing commitment to advocacy and improved quality of life is largely reflected in its array of programs designed for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Looking to the future, The Arc plans to establish The Arc Education Center, which will allow the organization to consolidate all its services under one roof and enhance its capacity for programs. This initiative underscores the importance of securing financial support from the community.

Donations towards the $1 million goal can be made directly through The Arc’s website at thearcgw.org. Community members are encouraged to become involved to ensure that The Arc can continue to serve individuals with disabilities effectively and sustainably.