Contra Costa Association For Citizens

Founded in 1972, Ala Costa Center offers after school learning programs for students with developmental disabilities. The center provides a wide range of activities, including community integration, specialty classes, sign language, music, dance and creative activities. Students are given a selection of different activities to experience, which develops their personal preferences and ability to learn. Headquartered in Berkeley, Calif., it enrolls students between the ages of 5- to 22-years and are grouped based on age and skill level. Its classrooms include the explorers, adventurers, voyagers, navigators and the apartment. The curriculum is designed to help students develop skills in independent living, mobility, fine arts, expressive and receptive language, functional academics, social interaction and vocational readiness. Ala Costa Center has a large playing field that offers many recreational opportunities, such as soccer, basketball and tennis, along with play areas for both preschoolers and school-aged children.

Since 1953, The Arc-Solano is involved in planning, develops programs and services for adults with developmental disabilities and their families. Based in Vallejo, Calif., the organization features three core programs and focuses on promoting the interests of developmentally disabled people through support, education and advocacy. It offers Alternatives in Curriculum and Training (ACT), a behavioral day program for serving the special needs of consumers with a dual diagnosis of developmental and mental health disability. Its other programs include transitional service (TS), a community-based independent living skills program, a resident arts program. The Arc-Solano is a member of The Arc of the United States, Vallejo Chamber of Commerce, United Way of the Bay Area and other organizations.