Welcome to Cal-Nev-Ha Division 42!

Hello Fellow Kiwanians-

It is hard to believe that we are already wrapping up the first quarter of the year. The first quarter has been quite eventful, from natural disasters to the inauguration of our new President to returning to The ARC of Ventura County for our DCM.

First off, a huge THANK YOU to The ARC for opening their doors to us, but most importantly for all the work that they do. The ARC of Ventura County is a non-profit corporation that was establish in Santa Paula in 1954, by a group of teachers and parents who believed that their children deserved a full life. Since then, the ARC has been committed to promote and protect the rights of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The ARC provides programming that assists individuals to pursue their respective personal goals (Community Connections), provide an environment and space for individuals to interact and engage in meaningful activities (Community Integration Day Programs), prepare individuals to live independently (Training for Independent Living, and Supported Services for Independent Living), train and coach individuals for gaining and maintaining employment (Employment Services), as well as educating individuals on their rights in order for them to advocate for their rights in the community. The ARC also provides individuals who are non-verbal with a voice through their Digital Literacy Program, through the use of assistive technology devices and personalized application programs. Through their MOVE Program, they assist individuals who are prone to wheelchairs acquire improved motor skills to increase mobility and make life more accessible.

Learning about everything that they do and provide to the community was extremely heartfelt and also hit home. I was able to make a personal connection to the Program, as my brother was both prone to a wheelchair and non-verbal. It was through a like-minded program that my brother was able to live the fullest life he was able to. Through specialized programming, he was able to attend school, interacting and engaging with others who shared his similar conditions. The individuals who worked with him on a daily basis were the reason he was excited to get on the bus every morning and returned home with a smile from ear to ear.

I ask that we as Kiwanis continue to be inclusive, believe in diversity, and continue to serve our communities through an equitable lens. It is through that approach that efforts like that of The ARC Foundation make such an impact on those whom they serve. Everyone deserves an opportunity to be the best versions of themselves; we as Kiwanis are able to provide support and resources to make it happen. All your efforts, big or small, make a huge impact and difference in the lives of others. THANK YOU! 

Temo Solorio