ArcGNO Mardi Gras Recycle Center

As a private, non-profit organization, STARC has helped thousands of people since we started nearly 35 years ago. While we've grown over the years, our services still involve individuals reaching out to individuals to connect with the ability that lies behind the disability. You could say that we're in the business of building independence, day by day and step by step.STARC was founded in 1972 by Laura Delaup with two other mothers after her eight-month-old daughter, Heaven, was bitten by a mosquito and contracted encephalitis. The disease left Heaven developmentally disabled, and she became one of three original STARC participants. Today, STARC's east and west divisions serve over 700 individuals and their families in St. Tammany, Washington, St. Helena, Tangipahoa and Livingston parishes at any given time.

Arc of Greater New Orleans, situated in Westwego, LA, is a non-profit organization committed to enhancing the independence and well-being of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities like Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and autism. With a history spanning 67 years, they provide support to over 750 individuals across several parishes, including Jefferson, Orleans, and St. Tammany. The organization offers a range of services to empower individuals with disabilities, from family supports coordination for young children needing therapy to residential support services aiding adults in developing daily living skills. Community integration programs operate in four centers, promoting independence and self-esteem. Additionally, they provide employment services, job placement assistance, and run social enterprises like Paragon Industries that offer employment opportunities. Transportation services are also provided for jobs, community center activities, and social outings. Through education, advocacy, and support, Arc of Greater New Orleans aims to foster a community in the Greater New Orleans area that embraces and celebrates individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Generated from the website content