ARC of Boone County president describes services, funding and client-made products on Katie's Corner

Molly Whitehead, president of the board of the ARC of Boone County, outlined the nonprofit's history, programs and funding during an interview on Katie's Corner. She said families began organizing in the 1950s and the organization was formally established in 1970 to provide services for people with disabilities.

"So the ARC in Boone County was actually kind of started to form in the 19 fifties," Whitehead said, describing the group's grassroots origins. She said the ARC helps clients develop life skills through day services and offers employment opportunities through affiliated business operations. "There are people who are working for Main Street Enterprises. They fill, bird feeders for Mister Canary, which is a separate business entity," she said.

Whitehead said the ARC's primary funding source is Medicaid waiver services. "The ARC is primarily funded through Medicaid waiver services," she said, adding that revenue from separate business entities and community fundraising help pay for activities and supports not covered by waivers.

The program also showcases client-made goods. The host noted ornaments, bird feeders and artwork on display; Whitehead said those items are produced by clients and that volunteer artists help teach and support programming. She invited community members to support the organization by visiting the ARC's office in Lebanon, "just behind Titus," where a display space shows items available for purchase.

The interview closed with the host thanking Whitehead for explaining how the ARC operates and how the community can support it. No policy actions or formal votes were discussed during the segment.