The Arc extends thanks to parents, family members

The majority of persons in New Jersey with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities reside with family members. November has been designated National Family Caregivers Month.

During November, The Arc of Monmouth wishes to acknowledge and thank parents, siblings and other relatives who care for a person with developmental disabilities in their home. These family caregivers often go to extraordinary lengths to provide the support, guidance, teaching, and hands-on assistance required by their relative with a disability.

The care required varies from person to person. Some care giving is physically demanding; some is emotionally draining. It may be challenging, frustrating and costly.

Family caregivers provide an amount and quality of support that cannot be duplicated by other services. Their care giving benefits not only their loved one, but the entire community.

Persons with developmental disabilities raised in loving family homes are off to an exceptional start in life. They have a firm basis for growth and accomplishment in the future. Such accomplishments are seen every day at The Arc of Monmouth.

A person with mental retardation gets his first job, tries a new sport, earns a promotion, or attends a school prom. Or, she votes in a state election, goes on a long-awaited vacation, or volunteers time at a local nursing home. They actively participate in the life of their communities.

During National Family Caregivers Month, we gratefully thank the parents and other family members who are providing care for a person with mental retardation or other disabilities.

Randall B. Smith

President

The Arc of Monmouth

Tinton Falls