Member News

Rochester, NY — The Arc of Monroe is proud to introduce ArcNext, a new 8-week paid internship program designed to “grow our own” future workforce and expand inclusive employment opportunities across the community. By investing in hands-on learning and career exploration, ArcNext opens doors for people with disabilities while strengthening the pipeline of passionate, skilled professionals in human services. Developed with an eye toward both opportunity and evolving workforce needs, the program reflects The Arc’s commitment to building a more inclusive, empowered future.

ArcNext provides early, hands-on exposure to the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities, connecting young people with meaningful career pathways before they’ve fully entered the workforce. Through immersive, real-world experience, interns will build critical professional skills while directly supporting people in The Arc of Monroe’s Job Path Supported Employment Program.

“Too often, young people aren’t exposed to careers in this field until much later,” said Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist Kat Murphy. “ArcNext is about changing that—introducing emerging professionals to this work earlier, building passion and purpose, and ultimately strengthening the workforce in a meaningful, sustainable way.”

Caregivers remain at the heart of the human services field, yet the profession continues to face ongoing workforce shortages and growing demand. ArcNext responds by investing in the next generation of caregivers—developing a pipeline of skilled, values-driven professionals who are passionate about making a difference and advancing equity and inclusion in their work every day.

A Hands-On, Career-Building Experience
Unlike traditional internships, ArcNext is rooted in experiential learning. Interns are fully immersed in day-to-day operations, gaining direct, person-centered experience while developing key competencies such as communication and professionalism, teamwork and adaptability, job coaching, modeling, and rapport-building.

Interns also participate in weekly professional development sessions featuring Arc staff and industry leaders, along with shadowing experiences across the organization’s diverse programs.

ArcNext reflects The Arc of Monroe’s commitment to innovation, workforce development, and inclusive communities—investing in both the professionals of tomorrow and the people supported today.

For more information, visit https://arcmonroe.org/internship/

About The Arc of Monroe
The Arc of Monroe has been working passionately for 70 years to enhance the quality of life for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Arc shines a light on the abilities of the people it supports – over 1,500 people in 42 locations throughout Monroe County. As an organization with over 800 employees, The Arc is committed to supporting the local economy by being a partner and collaborator that aids in the economic development of the Monroe County community. Learn more at ArcMonroe.org.