The Arc Of Katy Prepares To Relocate To Enable Growth

launches capital campaign to furnish new facility 

Focused on the future, The Arc of Katy is preparing to relocate in January to a new, larger, purpose-built facility to enable growth of programs and services it provides for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families.

The new facility is located at 934 Jordan Ranch Blvd. in Waller County, has been designed specifically for The Arc of Katy day programs for adults and teens with IDD, and will support the nonprofit organization’s plans for future growth, according to Fred Shafer, president of The Arc of Katy Board of Directors.

“When we relocate to the new facility, The Arc of Katy will be able to enroll and provide opportunities for more participants in our day programs for adults and teens with IDD,” Shafer says. “The new building is about twice the square footage that we currently lease; includes more activity, meeting, office and storage; and offers flexibility for potential future expansion.”

The Arc of Katy’s use of the new facility is facilitated by community volunteer and property manager Marie Tsakiris and her family. Garlock Construction, LLC is providing design and construction management. “As a nonprofit organization, we greatly appreciate their generosity as use of the facility will help us sustainably deliver high quality, accessible and affordable opportunities for more people with intellectual and developmental disabilities such as Down syndrome and autism spectrum disorders,” Shafer says.

The Arc of Katy Board of Directors is launching a $90,000 capital campaign this month to furnish the new facility. “Our volunteers and staff are focused on creating spaces inside the building and on the surrounding property that are comfortable, healthy, safe, and enjoyable for our participants,” Shafer says. The capital campaign is focused on securing grants, donations and in-kind contributions in 2021-2022 for furniture, appliances, security and audiovisual equipment, storage units, fencing and landscaping.

Shafer further explains that the need for programs such as those offered by The Arc of Katy continues to grow as our community’s overall population grows and as area schools continue to attract families interested in high-quality education and special needs programs, and as more young adults with IDD graduate from high school.

“We believe all people deserve to be included as respected, active members of our community at all stages of their lives,” Shafer says. “The new facility will serve as an enduring center for learning, skills development, social enrichment, recreation and community service.”

An update on The Arc of Katy’s plans will be provided at The Arc of Katy Annual General Membership Meeting to be held from 7 to 8:30 pm on Sept. 21 at Parkway Fellowship North Katy, 5819 10th St. Additional information on the meeting, which is open to the public, is available at www.thearcofkaty.org.