Arizona Recreation Center for the Handicapped (ARCH)

The mission of ARCH (Arizona Recreation Center for the Handicapped) is to enhance and maintain the quality of life of individuals with disabilities, by providing therapeutic recreation services, educational and wellness programs, socialization opportunities and basic living skills, in our recreational facilities and in the community.

ARCH is a 5-acre recreation center in the heart of Phoenix, offering a full range of programs and activities for individuals of all ages with developmental disabilities. ARCH has made a unique and lasting contribution to the lives of thousands of people since its inception 1975 when it was first named ARCH which stands for 'Arizona Recreation Center for the Handicapped'. We provide a fun, safe environment for youth and adults seeking recreation and sports related activities. During a typical week at ARCH more than 350 clients (5000 annually) come to our campus to participate in a wide range of programs including Day Treatment for Adults, Adult Drop-In, ARCHKids Program, Special Olympic Training, Adventure Club, Performing Arts, Health and Fitness activities and Life-Skills Education. Participants come from residential neighborhoods, group homes, schools and partner programs from all over the Valley, 85% of which are from low-income families. The average ARCH adult client spends 7 hours on campus each day. Without ARCH 50% of participants would not have an alternative for day supervision. 60% of children and teens enrolled in our ARCHKids Program receive extended care supervision through ARCH, while parents work. Our Center is unique because we offer self-directed education based on a participant's own choice of activities. It is the only facility of its kind in the State of Arizona and one of only three such organizations in the US.