The Arc of Palm Beach County prepares for 2016 Pack-A-Thon! Volunteers needed to “Band Together” to package 100,000 glow-in-the-dark rubber bracelets in 10 hours!
Community volunteers will package a Guinness World Records number of glow-in-the-dark rubber bracelets during a 10-hour event to raise awareness of and funds for The Arc of Palm Beach County.
The October 10 Pack-A-Thon will take place at the South Florida Fair & Expo Center in West Palm Beach, where up to 400 supporters of The Arc’s programs for adults with developmental disabilities will “Band Together” and stuff 100,000 “Arc in the Dark” rubber bracelets into clear, plastic envelopes for distribution and sale to the public. The goal is twofold: to raise $100,000 for the organization through a dollar-apiece proceeds and to celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
“In observance of National Disability Employment Awareness Month this October, The Arc’s adult clients literally will have a hand in the project by packaging these bracelets, and the public is invited to join the fun by participating in the ‘Band Together’ day,” said Kimberly McCarten, the nonprofit’s CEO.
Clients of The Arc’s Career Transition Program, which provides a pathway to the development of a variety of life skills necessary in the workplace and beyond, will participate in the Pack-A-Thon, along with those donating their time. Hours are from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Throughout the day a schedule of activities will unfold, including a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10:30 a.m. with County Commissioner Paulette Burdick, West Palm Beach Mayor Jeri Muoio, and Riviera Beach Mayor Thomas Masters; performances by high school marching bands, photos with fun costumes and props, and music by a live deejay. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided to those who sign up for shifts.
“The goal is to get as many people in the community to volunteer as possible,” McCarten said. “We also want others to come out to purchase the bracelets, as well as the art that will be on display in The Arc’s pop-up art shop.”
Mixed-media works created by The Arc’s clients will be sold during the event to raise additional funds for the agency. Also, information tables will be set up to offer literature on child safety during the Halloween season of outdoor festivals and trick-or-treating.
“Help The Arc make Guinness World Records history,” McCarten said. “The day will be filled with energy and excitement and will showcase our clients at their very best.”
Volunteers are needed and community service hours will be given to students. For information, call 842-3213 or visit arcpbc.org/arcinthedark.
