Arc Guardians played an integral role in the placement decisions of many individuals as they exited the two state facilities and moved to communities throughout New Mexico. Today, individuals served by The Arc live throughout the state. Although the guardian s role has not changed, the activities of the six Arc guardians are very different. Arc guardians are responsible for helping the individuals they serve select appropriate places to live and to work. Guardians attend and participate in all planning meetings for their clients and work with teams to assure that individual needs are met appropriately.
Guardians visit their clients at home and at work and also attend many community activities.
Guardians at The Arc have a working knowledge of all waiver services including residential, day habilitation, supported employment and therapy services. They work with hundreds of behavior, occupational, physical and speech therapists helping to develop individual programs and assuring clients needs are considered. Individuals served by The Arc reside in many different living environments, alone and with housemates in supported living and with families and friends in home-based services. Arc wards attend day habilitation programs at many centers across the state and participate in community-based activities outside of sheltered settings. Several individuals work with support in restaurants, stores, casinos and in community-based jobs.