Heritage Centers - Now known as The Arc Erie County

About

At The Arc Erie County New York, we support children and adults with disabilities and their families in achieving their desired quality of life by creating opportunities through comprehensive quality services.   As a leading agency in Western New York for over 65 years, we take pride in our mission and advocacy that builds and strengthens the entire community.   We are deeply dedicated to the people we support and their families who rely on our expertise to assist them in the discovery and delivery of life-long educational, employment, vocational, residential and support programs and resources. They turn to us to assist them in exploring all the available service options within our communities, so they can find meaningful opportunities, employment, a safe place to call home and the ability to achieve their greatest potential.   Our far-reaching knowledge and capabilities allow us to customize programs to individuals’ wants, needs and interests, thus encouraging independence and a desire to reach personal goals.   We understand you may be overwhelmed trying to get the information you need.  If you are seeking programs and supports or looking for opportunities for your loved one, please allow us to help you by contacting us at (716) 856-4201.

Services Provided

Employment

• Work experience (e.g., volunteer, intern, apprentice, employment training programs)
• Skill development (e.g., technology, employability skills, pre-employment)
• Career development (e.g., career counseling, job club, mentor)
• On-the-job training and support (e.g., job coach, assistive technology, supported employment)
• Youth and adult employment programs

Independent/Community Living

• Housing/Residential services (e.g., apartment, low-income housing)
• Supported living (e.g., in-home assistance, group living)
• Daily living skills (e.g., cooking, cleaning, budgeting)
• Recreation (e.g., parks, sports centers, arts, summer camps)

Healthcare

• Health specialists serving youth with disabilities (e.g., developmental pediatrician, occupational therapist, physical therapist, behavioral support)

Family Supports

• Evaluations (e.g., psychological, neurological, assistive technology, developmental)
• Respite services

Education/Training

• Preschool/early childhood programs
• Certificate programs (e.g., food handling, welding, first aid/CPR)
• Vocational training programs
• School-age programs

Other Services

• Advocacy
• Assistive Technology

Supported Age Ranges

• Early childhood (0-5)
• School age (5-18)
• Young adult (18+)

Counties Served

• ERIE