Our History

1959 – The local unit launched a program to help adults with intellectual and related developmental disabilities over 16 find vocational training. It co-sponsored a home training program to provide sick care for member’s children.

1960 – The unit entered an agreement with the Camden county Office of the New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services to transport clients to sheltered workshops in South Jersey.

1961 – A two-week summer camp was offered at the American Legion Home in Woodbury along with a two-week swim program for youngsters with intellectual and related developmental disabilities at the Raccoon Valley Swim Club.

1964 – The unit was one of seven sponsoring agencies of the new Occupational Center of Gloucester County (later renamed the Abilities Center)

1966 – The unit hired William Thurston as its first executive director and opened an office at 39 Cooper St. in Woodbury.

1968 – Camp Sun ‘N Fun opened in Williamstown, offering two weeks of residential camping and four weeks of day camping.

1972 – The unit opened Hessian House, its first group home, in Woodbury, as a state pilot project.

1975 – The unit changed its name to the New Jersey Association for Retarded Citizens – Gloucester County Unit.

1976 – For the first time Camp Sun ‘N Fun offered eight weeks of camping, saving weeks for residential camping.

1980 – Show solidarity for the national movement, the unit changed its name to The Arc Gloucester County.

1987 – The seventh group home, Herbert House in Monroe Township opened.

1988 – Camp Sun ‘N Fun expanded with the purchase of 10 acres adjacent to the north side if the camp. The purchase was possible with the help of a $10,000 grant from Commerce Bank.

1989 – The Olympic-sized Jerry Campbell Pool was built at the camp with private donations and support from the Mobil Foundation. Jerry’s Dad, Mobil’s Bill Campbell, was a major Arc supporter.

1990 – Mike Carlin, after 16 years with the unit, succeeded Marge Hull as executive Director.

1993 – Following Arc-US, the local unit adopted the trade name, Arc Gloucester.

1996 – The annual golf tournament was taken over by former Glassboro Mayor Bill Dalton, whose efforts immediately tripled proceeds for Camp Sun ‘N Fun.

1997 – Assistant executive director Ana Rivera followed Mike Carlin as executive director.

2001 – The Arc Radio show started and continues today.

2003 – The Arc TV Show Debuts.

2005 – Mobile Dental services started at the Chestnut Ridge ATS in partnership with the New Jersey Foundation of Dentistry for persons with Disabilities.

2006 – The North Main group home opened, serving four women from the community waiting list.