partially accurate, if that phrase were applied to the delivery of services from the Chenango
County ARC. The realm of services and how those services are delivered has evolved
tremendously as we look back on this year. Since a group of caring parents first chartered the
Chenango County ARC in 1964, it is truly impressive to reflect on the growth and diversity of
services that have occurred since that year.
Beginning with a sheltered employment program in 1969, simple work tasks were completed
by the first two individuals who were there as the doors to the agency opened. Today, the
workshop is a complexity of packaging machines, assembly lines and a world far apart from
that original storefront in Oxford where it all began.
Then, in 1978 the agency began providing residential services with one Community
Residence. Today there is a spectrum of living arrangements available depending on the
wants, needs and abilities of those we serve.
In the early 1990’s a new shift in the delivery of services occurred which emphasized
individuality. Case Management (which evolved into Service Coordination), Day Habilitation,
Pre-Vocational Services, Medical Dental Services and other concepts were developed. These
programs were developed to provide a more focused type of service based on who the person
is and what their needs are. Conceptually it is termed “Person Centered Planning”. It is that
concept that leads us into this new millennium.
Throughout all these years, as programs and their delivery systems were adjusted and
tweaked, so too were the demands that were placed on staff. Staff not only adjusted, they
excelled. Even as some staff members left the agency, others stepped in to fill their shoes
without missing a step. And that is the one constant: today’s staff is as dedicated to serving
those in our programs as was the staff of decades ago. Fortunately, some things never do
change.
