Sophia Smiles as She "Graduates" EIP 

A beautiful smile that lights up the whole room.  A smile that touches the heart.  Sophia's smile tells it all. 

Sophia began the Early Intervention program in January 2008.  She does not communicate verbally but is able to communicate what she likes and how she feels with her smile as well as using her eyes when choosing activities or toys she desires.  After attending EIP, Sophia is now able to use her voice to communicate "Hi" and "Dada" loud and clear.  She uses a mobile stander to be at eye level with her peers and loves nature walks and spending time with her friends.

Since Sophia recently turned three, she has graduated from the EIP at ARC Marion to attend a new school.  However, her parents promise to bring her back because of all that EIP did for their family.

ARC Clients participate in Hog for Hope Photo Shoot

In recognition of ARC's 50th Anniversary, the Hog for Hope TM fundraiser will be commemorating a flashback to 1959.  In honor of that era, five ARC Marion clients participated in a photo shoot in their poodle skirts, white shirts and leather jackets with the 2009 Hog for Hope TM bike.  Pictured at right:

(standing) Dan Rogers and LouAnn Fox

(seated) Adriel General, Jordan Guthrie, and Andres Cazares

 Arthur Speights

Arthur has been saving all year to go on his dream trip of a cruise. He recently went to the

Bahamas on a 4 day cruise with his peers and had a wonderful time. Arthur flew to Ft. Lauderdale by himself and met with the tour guide at the airport. He boarded the ship and spent the next 4 days swimming in the pool, night clubbing, singing karaoke and even a little gambling at the casino on board as well as sightseeing and shopping in the Bahamas.

Arthur was so excited when he came back that he went to everyone showing all his pictures and telling them about his trip. He enjoyed himself so much that he is trying to make up his mind where to go next year. 

Shalini Amin

Shalini Amin has been attending the Adult Day Training program at ARC for almost 12 years and recently had a few pieces of her artwork displayed at the Fine Arts for Ocala (FAFO) Fall Arts Festival along with 27 other ARC Marion clients.  This is the first year ARC has participated in the event.

Shalini's art was recognized by the FAFO board of directors with one of their Student Purchase Awards for 2008.  FAFO purchases two to four pieces annually from the student exhibit to be a part of their permanent collection.  It will be on display throughout Marion County all year in various locations.  Congratulations, Shalini.  We're so proud of you!

 Kimie LaGreca

Kimberly LaGreca always dreamed of being a feature vocalist and recently her dreams have started becoming reality. The 22-year-old has been a part of ARC’s Supported Living program for four years and says her favorite thing about ARC Marion is her Supported Living Coach, Miss Wendy.

Kimie loves to sing, and started performing at age 5. Her most memorable singing experience was in front of her whole family at her uncle’s wedding. Kimie recently met up with Dolly Parton’s sister, Stella, (pictured left) who encouraged and inspired her to continue in her dreams of singing full-time. Stella also invited her to record at Attic Entertainment in Nashville this winter. (Contact Ocala Models & Talent at 352-369-1212 for more info).

“I came to ARC, because my Mom wanted me to be more independent,” said Kimie. “I am very happy. Everyone in my family is so proud of me in what I have become.” Kimie, we at ARC Marion are pretty proud of you, too!

   Sophia pictured in the ARC Early Intervention Program just before she "graduated." When children turn 3-years-old, they are graduated out of the EIP into Marion County Public Schools.  
       ARC clients pictured with the 2009 custom Hog for Hope Harley-Davidson  Arthur Speights pictured in a casino in the Bahamas          Shalini Amin

Stella Parton poses with Kimie

Read more about Kimie in Ocala Style Health