Americans have collectively felt the pain of inflation this year.‭ ‬Non-profits are no different.‭ ‬It’s been tough securing funds for Advocates for the Rights of the Challenged (ARC) of the Treasure Coast.‭

Thanks to the help of two very special state legislators, our‭ ‬501‭(‬c‭)(‬3‭)‬‭ ‬not-for-profit organization was able to secure‭ ‬$750,000‭ ‬for two Women’s Accessible Intensive Behavioral Living Environment (WAIBLE) homes.‭

State Sen. Gayle Harrell, R-Stuart, represents Martin County and parts of St.‭ ‬Lucie and Palm Beach Counties.‭ ‬Rep.‭ ‬Dana Trabulsy, R-Fort Piece, represents parts of St. Lucie County. Both lawmakers‭ ‬were‭ ‬instrumental in helping ARC secure these funds for the homes. These homes are for women with intellectual and developmental disabilities who need long-term care‭ ‬that can provide intensive behavioral programming‭ ‬within a structured home environment.‭

The funds we received‭ ‬will go toward modifying two homes currently owned by ARC,‭ ‬so that individuals residing in the homes will be able to age in place long term.‭ ‬Funds will also assist with hiring,‭ ‬training,‭ ‬and certifying behavior professionals and purchasing‭ ‬various equipment used‭ ‬for mobility and therapeutic purposes‭ ‬the residents‭ ‬will‭ ‬require.

Advocates for the Rights of the Challenged is a private not-for-profit dedicated to‭ ‬empowering children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to achieve their fullest potential.‭

Thank you,‭ ‬Sen.‭ ‬Harrell,‭ ‬Rep.‭ ‬Trabulsy,‭ ‬and the Legislative Budget Committee for your support.‭ ‬Now‭ ‬the ARC of the Treasure Coast will be able to provide these‭ ‬women in our care with a place to live‭ ‬in a safe and structured‭ ‬environment.‭

Keith W.‭ ‬Muniz is the president‭ and ‬CEO of ARC of‭ ‬the Treasure Coast.