Marisol
From the priority area Community Wellness

“It’s hard to explain in words really. She can do her own thing, it’s about freedom.” Clio grasps for the words to detail the change in her sister Marisol since she started attending programs at ARC of New London County, a program they were referred to by the Department of Mental Retardation.

Marisol and Clio live in New London with their family. Marisol has a job and a supportive family, yet a piece of her life was missing.

“Before she would hardly go out. She was completely isolated. She sat in her bedroom and watched TV or played video games,” Clio says. “We’d beg her to go somewhere with us. But now, she has her own friends. She has stories to share with us and a new independence. She has more pride in herself.”

Marisol attends ARC twice each week for programs that expand her horizons. Through community events, socials, and recreation programs individuals gain independence and acceptance. In addition, participants have a chance to connect with their peers. Transportation, typically a barrier for individuals like Marisol, is provided by ARC.

“They don’t have a chance to be part of something social, to be out with friends,” says Lori Goeschel, Recreation Director at ARC. “Because many don’t have access to transportation, or it’s very limited, they don’t get out very often. It’s simple things like going to the movies, to a restaurant or bowling that we might take for granted. But to them, they look forward to it all week.”

“I really like the programs,” says Marisol. “They support me all the way!”

“I hear her talking about the ARC and her new friends and that makes me feel good,” continues Clio. “She wants to do more things, even outside of ARC. She has more energy and motivation.”

Marisol has so much energy in fact that she competed in the Special Olympics this year in track & field. “I tried for years to get her to come out and run with me,” Clio laughs. “Now I can’t stop her.”