The Arc of Monroe County recently developed two major initiatives designed to increase the social capital of individuals we serve, our staff and our organization. One Good Turn was established in 2004 to demonstrate our commitment to volunteerism. Only two years later our constituents had reported over 10,000 hours of community service in the Rochester area. Through this reporting, we witnessed new relationships, shared knowledge and expanded resources. Community neighbors and businesses understood more about people with disabilities and they began to see individuals we serve and our organization in a different light – a useful and functional light; and our community was strengthened because of it. Soon after, The Institute for Social Inclusion was established to begin driving the concepts of social capital throughout our community. This article shares what we have learned about the power and impact that social capital has for people with disabilities. Throughout, there are examples to document the critical relativity to vocation, school-to-work transition, and the role of service providers for individuals with disabilities. WHY … The Arc of Monroe County has dedicated so many resources to furthering our person-centered services through the cultivation of social capital.
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