Contact: Liz Morrell, Executive Director – The Arc Fond du Lac (920) 279-0779

(Fond du Lac, Wis. – June 24, 2020) – The Arc Fond du Lac has implemented routine and regular COVID-19 testing for residents and caregivers in its nine group homes serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). People with disabilities, older adults, and individuals with underlying health conditions are particularly vulnerable as are those who reside in congregate settings, such as group homes or other assisted living facilities. Routine and regular testing is another strategy to help residents of The Arc Fond du Lac remain safe while pursuing a meaningful life within the community through work, day programs, recreational activities, and essential social connections with loved ones.

The Arc Fond du Lac worked closely with state and local health officials to establish its testing program. Kimberly Mueller, Fond du Lac County Health Officer, states “We are grateful to have great community partners that doing all they can to keep our vulnerable population safe. This increased testing will allow us to understand where the virus is and contain it. This is an amazing opportunity for our community to keep each other safe. “ The Arc Fond du Lac is one of the first providers in Wisconsin to begin routine & regular testing in Adult Family Homes without confirmed cases of COVID-19 among residents.

“As we move forward in these unprecedented COVID-19 times, The Arc Fond du Lac has doubled down on its commitment to our residents, our members, and our staff to provide a safe, healthy environment,” stated David Oldenburg, President of The Arc Fond du Lac Board of Directors. “We do this to protect those who are the most vulnerable. We do it because it is the right thing to do for our community. That is The Arc difference! As President of the Board of Directors and, more importantly, as a parent of a vulnerable child, I am grateful for the exceptional leadership The Arc has shown in keeping people safe.”

The Arc Fond du Lac annually serves more than 800 people with I/DD in Fond du Lac County and surrounding areas. A part of the community since 1963, The Arc Fond du Lac supports people of all ages with I/DD and their families through its day programs, youth programs, Special Olympics, community enrichment, respite services, and transportation programs.

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The Arc Fond du Lac is a 501(C)3 organization dedicated to empower people with I/DD to independence and integration in the community through advocacy, education, training, and support through its programs and services. For more information, visit: arcfdl.org