The Arc of Atlantic County hosted a joyful and inspiring Fall Arts and Fashion Show on September 26, 2025, shining a spotlight on the creativity, individuality, and style of participants in its Adult Day Habilitation Program. The event featured original artwork and upcycled fall fashions reimagined from donations to The Arc Makes Cents Too Thrift Shop.
Guests were welcomed into a gallery space filled with paintings, mixed media, and handcrafted art created by program participants. The highlight of the afternoon was a live runway show—a dynamic blend of art, fashion, and celebration that showcased each participant’s unique personality and talents.
A portion of this year’s artistic offerings were supported through a 2025 partnership with Stockton University’s Access to Art program, held at the Noyes Arts Garage in Atlantic City. The experience provided a professional, community-based setting where participants were guided in developing their artistic voices while building confidence and self-expression.
In the weeks leading up to the fashion show, participants selected their favorite pieces to model with guidance and encouragement from staff. The show featured three wardrobe changes amidst a runway decorated with festive Fall Foliage.
Participants worked with staff to learn how to walk the runway, strike a pose, and shine under the spotlight—complete with cheers, applause, laughter and plenty of “paparazzi” cameras capturing the moment.
“The excitement in the room was electric,” said Scott Hennis, CEO, of The Arc of Atlantic County. “It was more than a fashion show—it was a celebration of inclusion, expression, confidence, and community.”
Each outfit was transformed from donated clothing into one-of-a-kind, fashionable statements by participants and volunteers, reflecting a creative commitment to both sustainability and personal style.
The Adult Day Habilitation Program at The Arc of Atlantic County provides adults aged 18 and older living with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) the opportunity to explore their interests, develop social skills, and engage in meaningful, community-based activities.
Approximately 100 individuals participate in the program weekly, Monday through Friday.
Participants are grouped by shared interests and enjoy a wide range of experiences including community outings, volunteer and job training, arts and crafts, karaoke, music therapy, multimedia activities, sewing, a sensory room, and special visits from community partners.
The Day Habilitation Program is a place for adults aged 18+ living with disabilities to participate in community-based and in-center activities which encourage them to explore their artistic talents, hobbies, activities which help them develop their social skills, have fun and live the lives they choose.
Approximately 100 people attend the Adult Day Habilitation Program weekly. Activities include community activities and trips to local attractions, volunteer & job training opportunities, arts and crafts, karaoke, music, recreation, sewing, multi-media activities, a sensory room, visits from furry friends from the Atlantic County Animal Shelter and more.
For more information about The Arc of Atlantic County’s programs, services and special events, please visit thearcatlantic.org or contact Mary Ruley Moyer, Director of Development and Community Outreach, at 609.485.0800 x 135 or mmoyer@thearcatlantic.org.
