The Point/Arc in Covington, KY, has a rich and impactful history rooted in the dedication of parents advocating for their children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).
Origins and Mission
Founded in 1972 as an advocacy group by three parent organizations, its initial focus was to advocate for the educational rights of their children with I/DD.
Renamed The Point Arc in 1991, it has since grown into a comprehensive agency offering a wide range of services to help individuals with I/DD reach their highest potential in various aspects of life.
Their mission is to provide opportunities for individuals with I/DD to achieve their highest potential educationally, residentially, socially, and vocationally.
Holistic Approach and “Filling the Gaps”:
The Point/Arc distinguishes itself by taking a holistic approach, providing around-the-clock programs and continuously identifying and filling service gaps that might not be addressed by other organizations or government funding.
Their services are designed to provide real-life experiences and integrate individuals with I/DD into the community as contributing members, fostering self-esteem and pride.
Key Milestones and Programs
- 1972: Founded as an advocacy group by three parent organizations.
- 1982: Opened The Point Restaurant, their first social enterprise, providing vocational training.
- 1985: Established The Point Commercial Cleaning Company and Employment Program, offering job training, placement, and ongoing support.
- 1984: Developed the Everybody Counts Program, an elementary school program promoting understanding and acceptance of individuals with I/DD.
- 1996: Established The Point Commercial Laundry.
- 1979: Established their headquarters at 104 Pike Street, a location that has remained their home base for over 50 years.
- 2023: Purchased ZELS Pretzels, their fifth social enterprise, creating job opportunities.
- 2022: Celebrated their 50th Anniversary and opened their 18th residential home.
The Point/Arc’s Zembrodt Education Center (ZEC): - 2025: The ZEC, which is part of The Point/Arc, has a specific opening day for its classes. According to LINK nky, one source says that it is set for August 26th.
- 2026: The Point/Arc is opening a new Advanced Care Home for individuals with physical disabilities that prevent them from living in their regular group homes. This home will be the 19th residential group home for the organization, and it’s the first of its kind in Kentucky. The new facility will feature wider doorways, overhead lifts, and six bedrooms, plus an extra for visitors. The home is scheduled for completion by the spring of 2026.
- Social Enterprises: Beyond vocational training and placement, they operate several social enterprises, including Point Perk Coffee, Point Apparel, Point Commercial Laundry, and ZELS Pretzels, providing real-world work experience and fostering independence.
Current Operations and Community Impact
The Point/Arc serves more than 1,500 individuals annually through its diverse programs.
They strive to ensure at least one-third of their employees are individuals with I/DD.
The organization continues to grow and expand its services, demonstrating a commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the I/DD community in Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati.
In essence, The Point Arc’s history in Covington, KY, is a testament to the power of parental advocacy and a dedication to providing comprehensive, innovative, and inclusive programs that empower individuals with intellectual and developmental differences to lead fulfilling lives and become integral members of their community.
Contributed by Robin Rider-Osborne | redbird_12001@yahoo.com
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