Empowering the Developmentally Disabled
The Arc of San Diego is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing support and opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. With a mission to empower these individuals to achieve their full potential, The Arc has been a vital resource in the San Diego community for many years. The Downtown San Diego Lions Club is proud to maintain a partnership with The Arc, holding a minority position on the Board of Directors and providing financial and operational support since 1977.
Lions Workshop Building: A Legacy of Support
In 1977, the Downtown San Diego Lions Club took on a significant project to build a classroom and workshop facility, later known as the Lions Workshop Building. This facility was designed to provide work training and skill-building opportunities for developmentally disabled citizens in San Diego. The Lions Club and its Welfare Foundation funded half the cost of the project, showcasing their dedication to improving the lives of these individuals.
Located at The Arc’s North Shores Vocational Center on Aero Drive, the workshop allows participants to engage in meaningful work. Private industry contracts with The Arc to complete assemblage and packaging projects, providing individuals with valuable skills and an opportunity to integrate into the community. This model not only offers professional development for the participants but also helps them gain confidence and independence.
A Day of Recognition: Lions Workshop Day
The importance of the Lions Workshop Building and its impact on the community was recognized on October 20, 1977, when then-Mayor Pete Wilson declared the day as Lions Workshop for the Retarded Day. This recognition reflected the collaborative efforts between the Downtown San Diego Lions Club and The Arc of San Diego to provide long-term support and resources for those in need.
In keeping with this tradition of service, the Downtown San Diego Lions Club later funded the restoration of the workshop, ensuring that the facility remained a key resource for the developmentally disabled community in San Diego.
The Arc’s Vocational Training Programs
The Arc of San Diego offers a range of vocational training programs through its North Shores Vocational Center, helping individuals gain practical skills in various industries. These programs are designed to teach participants essential job skills, build their self-esteem, and increase their opportunities to join the workforce.
How to Get Involved
The Downtown San Diego Lions Club continues to support The Arc of San Diego in its efforts to empower individuals with developmental disabilities. To learn more about how you can get involved, donate, or learn more about The Arc’s programs, you can contact them at (619) 685-1175 or visit their website at www.arc-sd.com.
