YOP helps non-profit organizations raise private-sector funds by providing partial state tax credits to businesses that make contributions to approved youth development projects.
“St. Louis Arc is dedicated to providing valuable services to individuals and families that need them,” Department of Economic Development Director Rob Dixon said. “We are proud to support organizations like this one that care so deeply about improving quality of life for our citizens.”
Originally established in 1950, St. Louis Arc works to improve the lives of those with autism spectrum disorders, Down syndrome and other intellectual or developmental disabilities by providing a lifetime of support through high-quality services, family support and advocacy.
“The St. Louis Arc is committed to providing early intervention and support so children of all abilities, including those from our most underserved communities, can be ready and able to learn in the inclusive classroom,” Mark A. Keeley, President and CEO of the St. Louis Arc, said. "We applaud the DED for its commitment to strengthening Missouri communities through initiatives like the Youth Opportunities Program.”
St. Louis Arc announced the YOP award yesterday at its Superheroes for Kids event honoring Stephen Kanne, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders.
The funds will help support early education and intervention services for children ages six weeks to six years at the St. Louis Arc’s fully-inclusive child development center, Childgarden. The funds will also help replicate the services based on the inclusive education model at several North County early childhood centers.
In addition to connecting individuals and their families with supportive services and resources, St. Louis Arc also offers several volunteer opportunities from sports, leisure and recreation to special events.
The agency has been accredited by The Council on Quality Leadership (CQL) since 1983 and in 2016 became the eighth organization in the world to achieve Person-Centered Excellence Accreditation with Distinction.
To learn more about St. Louis Arc and the services it provides, please visit www.slarc.org.
About the Youth Opportunity Program:
Each year, the Missouri Department of Economic Development’s Youth Opportunity Program (YOP) partners with non-profit organizations to help thousands of at-risk youth overcome barriers to a healthy, successful life and realize their full potential as citizens. For more information on YOP funding opportunities and eligibility requirements, click here.