The Arc of Durham’s Family Support Services help families and individuals with developmental disabilities develop new skills, access information, obtain direct services and supports, learn about innovative programs, receive financial support and build relationships that greatly impact their lives. By leveraging community programs and linking families to an array of existing resources, The Arc and families are together creating systems of support that meet individualized needs.
The sibling group began several years ago at the request of four families, two of whom were Arc members. Siblings of children with developmental disabilities have an opportunity to confidentially express what it is like to have a sister or brother with special needs. SibShop participants meet once a month at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church for pizza and games; sessions are facilitated by two genetic counselors from Duke University.
It has evolved into a great experience for the young participants, most of whom are quite anxious for the “next sibling group”!
Parent Link-Up is an opportunity for parents and adult family members of people with developmental disabilities to have some respite from daily caregiving and seek support from their peers. We meet on the fifth Tuesday of the month (about 4 times per year) for dinner and lively conversation.
Every year, First In Families seeks out volunteers to help the families we know have a joyful holiday experience. Consider adopting a family, or part of a family, as your Christmas contribution to the Durham community. Anonymous donations for families to receive gift cards to do their own Christmas shopping are also welcome.
Donors may sign up at any time – please specify the size of family you would like to adopt and if you are willing to meet the families in person to deliver your gifts. Families we have served in the past year will be eligible to sign up for Holiday Pals assistance from the first week of October until mid-November.
