The Community Learning Centers offers Site Based Day Habilitation with opportunities for people to immerse themselves in the community. With access to activities in Canandaigua, Victor and Geneva, and landmarks like Kershaw Park, Seneca Lake State Park, local stores, holiday celebrations, libraries, local historical society events and more, there is always something to do and see. When staying indoors folks can participate in recreational activities of their choosing including movement groups, arts & crafts, bingo, trivia games and tabletop activities.

Volunteering is an important part of the activities at each site. Volunteer opportunities include Gleaner’s Kitchen, the Methodist Church Soup Kitchen, Happy Tails, Home Delivered Meals, the Community Support Shoppe and more!

Individuals enrolled in Day Habilitation have access to the Eberhardt Center and the building resources provided, including Creative Expressions programming.

The Sit-A-Spell locations are ideal for those aged 60+, interested in a slower paced, more relaxed environment. The Sit-A-Spell sites are located within the Salvation Army in Canandaigua and on Exchange St. in Geneva.

Community Learning Center Locations:

• Victor Depot on Maple Ave in Victor

• Geneva FLCC on the Geneva FLCC campus

• Canandaigua Sit-A-Spell at the Salvation Army in Canandaigua

• Geneva Sit-A-Spell on Exchange St in Geneva

A comprehensive service/therapeutic experience that fosters creativity through visual arts, music, and horticulture, encouraging individuals to expand upon traditional methods of communication and interaction in an educational environment.

Creative Expressions is designed for people seeking to improve their physical, emotional, cognitive, and social skills by expressing themselves in a variety of creative ways, while getting involved in their community. Group and individual sessions are available.

Activities include:

• Collaborative team building

• Creativity through expressing opinions, setting goals, and exploring new media

• Demonstrating capabilities

• Developing community connections

• Personal enrichment and exploration

• Skills and techniques that provide the tools to interact and engage with others

Additional details:

• Our Art Program gives individuals access to a variety of mediums including drawing, painting, sculpture, book arts and printmaking guided by our art specialist to explore the unique mark each individual makes, influencing the world around them.

• Our Music Program uses a wide range of musical experiences to promote the health and well-being of individuals by enhancing and transforming their lives.

• Horticulture at The Eberhardt Center greenhouse exercises all of the senses, from the smell of flowers and hands-on gardening, to enjoying freshly grown vegetables. Our horticultural specialist ensures individuals have year-round access no matter the weather.

Kaleidoscope is a unique person-centered Day Habilitation Without Walls program, allowing individuals to engage in community activities and resources. Programming occurs in small groups of individuals who, together with staff identify their programming activities and where they would like to go within the community. Individuals explore community connections by shopping, volunteering, attending workshops and visiting local resources and attractions.

Applicant considerations:

Due to the nature of the Without Walls programming, applicants should be able to maintain at least 5 minutes of independence when in the community, be able to administer medication independently or not require any medication during programming times and need minimal behavioral supports.

Here is what some participants have to say about Kaleidoscope:

“I like helping others by volunteering at Home Delivered Meals and the Pop-Up Food Pantry.” – M.S.

“I like doing crafts and going to museums.” – J.L.

“I love it here. I like shopping and cooking groups.” – W.P.

“I like going in the greenhouse and going to the library.” – J.D.

The Eberhardt Center has been a part of the Day Services at The Arc Ontario for over thirty years, offering an enriched learning environment with an emphasis on wellness. Programs support social skills development, promoting independence, training in several areas of daily living: nutrition, safety skills, personal care skills, housekeeping, and healthcare and building community relationships and involvement.

Activities Include:

The Creative Expressions program offers music, art, movement and horticulture to people interested in more creative programs. The classes provide the opportunity to explore creativity while promoting communication, social and teamwork skills. Each program focuses on fostering community connections through partnerships with various businesses and organizations. Whether you want to exhibit in an art show, take part in a musical performance, or improve your gardening skills, there are so many ways to get involved!

The Therapeutic Pool is utilized daily to assist individuals with orthopedic and neurological disorders who experience symptoms of pain, weakness, weight-bearing restrictions, and circulation issues.

Building resources like the Snoezelen Room, the outside Recreation Area, and Sensory Garden offer individuals a place to explore their passions whether it be nutrition, arts and crafts, leisure activities, physical activities, or relaxation activities.

Volunteer Opportunities and Community Involvement: Meals on Wheels, local library, consignment shops, shopping centers, restaurants, and coffee shops.