Kacy Vance 
This month, we wanted to highlight one of the best organizations in Tampa Bay for people with developmental disabilities. PARC has been operating for 65 years here in the Tampa Bay Area.
The organization is also hosting its Top Chefs event this Thursday, August 22. Top Chefs brings together the best culinary minds in Tampa Bay for a fun foodie throw down. Click HERE for all the details and to get your tickets.
Serving 800 people
PARC is a non-profit organization that provides opportunities for children and adults with developmental disabilities. PARC wants to help people exercise their independence and experience life to the fullest. They hope by offering these opportunities, they are helping to create a community where all individuals live with dignity and are treated with respect. Today, PARC serves 800 people.
Providing person-centered programs
Using a “person-centered” approach, PARC provides programs and services helping those exercise their independence and experience life to the fullest.
“Person-centered” is a term that means the services PARC provides focus on the individual and not necessarily their disability. It allows the people with disabilities to grow and flourish to their full potential instead of focusing on limiting their opportunities simply because they have a disability.
PARC has four programs that they employ.
Life Long Learning
This program offers various classes that aim to give people with intellectual and developmental disabilities the skills they need to advance a career in one of six subjects. These programs include the Inspired Artist Studios, the Culinary Arts Program, a Computer Class, Behavior Services, an outdoor work environment, and workforce experience.
PARC Discovery Learning Center
PARC offers the only child care provider in Pinellas County with Early Intervention Services to children with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including those diagnosed with and/or “at-risk” for developmental delays, behavior concerns and autism.
Community Employment Services
PARC provides employment services programs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This program offers an option for on-the-job training. Individuals learn employability skills, socialization, daily living, and self-advocacy skills in safe, supervised environments.
Residential Services
PARC maintains four residences for both adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities in St. Petersburg. They have 94 people living full-time in the program with a range of age and abilities. The residents’ well-being is PARC’s primary concern as they live, work and enjoy life in Pinellas County.
Additionally, PARC offers Supported Living Services to help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities live on their own in the community.
Upcoming PARC Events
PARC hosts its 5th Annual food-centric fundraiser on August 22 at the Morean Center for Clay (420 22nd Street South). The chefs will be paired with individuals from PARC who have received culinary training to collaborate on entrées. Signature drinks and decadent desserts will also be provided throughout the night, and guests will get the opportunity to place their vote for categories like Fan Favorite, Best All Around, Best Flavor, Best Presentation and more.
There are still some early bird tickets left at $75. General Admission Tickets are $125 and VIP tickets are $150. You can purchase yours today by clicking here.
How can you help?
First and foremost, go to their events!!
If you don’t have time for that, donations are always welcome. PARC is open 24/7, 365 days a year. They need all the help they can get. If you want to donate tangible items, access their in-kind forms here.
PARC relies on charitable donations, grants, and other assistance from the community. You can help enrich the lives of more than 800 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Pinellas County. If you want to donate money, click here.
They also have a volunteer program if you don’t have money to spare, but you have time to give! Whether you want to volunteer one time for a targeted project or whether you come regularly to help at one of their many programs, PARC truly appreciates it. They have opportunities for groups, individuals, and events.
