Our Biggest and Best Year so Far!
For 80 years, Easterseals Arkansas has been a beacon of support, advocacy, and empowerment for individuals with disabilities and their families. Throughout our history, we have remained committed to fostering independence, building inclusive communities, and helping people live their fullest lives. As we reflect on the milestones of this past year, we are reminded of how far we’ve come, but also of the exciting future that lies ahead.
This year is particularly special as we also celebrate 20 years of service at our preschool and outpatient therapy center in Stuttgart, a facility that has provided life-changing care for children and their families. Additionally, we proudly mark 40 years of our Outreach Program, which continues to extend critical resources and support to educators and families across Arkansas.
As we honor these milestones, we are filled with hope for the next chapter of our journey. The next 80 years will bring new challenges, but we remain unwavering in our mission to empower individuals with disabilities to live, learn, work, and play in their communities. Together, we are building a brighter, more inclusive future—one where possibilities are endless, and no one is left behind. We have been unlocking possibilities for 80 years and will continue to unlock even more in the years and decades ahead.
The Academy Groundbreaking
Easterseals Arkansas’ private K-12 school is undergoing a major renovation and expansion. This milestone represents the beginning of a transformative journey toward a brighter future for students and families, who will be profoundly impacted by the Academy’s mission. The project is partially funded by the State of Arkansas’ Restricted Reserve, a contribution facilitated by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders. The Academy currently serves 78 students with a waitlist of about 200 students. This expansion will allow Easterseals to extend its reach, supporting even more students in the years to come.
The Feeding Clinic Renovation
Easterseals Arkansas’ Feeding Clinic underwent a beautiful facility renovation this year. The Feeding Clinic offers specialized support to families with children facing pediatric feeding disorders or challenges, providing a lifeline for those struggling with mealtime difficulties. With a multidisciplinary approach, the clinic brings together experts in speech therapy, occupational therapy, and nutrition to create personalized feeding plans that address each child’s unique needs. Whether the challenges involve difficulty chewing, swallowing, or transitioning to new textures and tastes, our team collaborates closely with families to ensure that every child can achieve safe and effective feeding outcomes.
Phase 2
This year brought the launch of another new program.Phase 2 Young Adult Program is designed to support young adults with disabilities as they transition into adulthood, offering them the tools, skills, and opportunities needed to lead more independent and fulfilling lives. This program focuses on a wide range of areas essential to adulthood, including life skills, social development, vocational training, and community involvement. Participants receive individualized support tailored to their unique goals and abilities, ensuring that each young adult is empowered to pursue their dreams—whether it’s finding meaningful employment, living more independently, or developing stronger social connections.
Roommate Housing
Roommate Housing is a cutting-edge model designed to enhance the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting greater independence within the community through shared living arrangements. The program utilizes a unique housing and matching process tailored for individuals receiving the Community and Employment Supports Waiver. To date, there are 19 adults living in shared spaces through our Roommate Housing program.
The homes are equipped with state-of-the-art smart-home technology, including smart locks, thermostats, medication dispensers, and personalized apps for to-do lists and reminders. This technology is customized for each resident. Additionally, remote monitoring technology, such as video doorbells, motion, and stove sensors, ensures safety and security. With this advanced technology, one direct support professional can monitor up to ten homes simultaneously and can be reached by program participants through a portal device to address any real-time support needs they might have.
