Arc plans events to increase awareness

The Arc of Monmouth, a volunteer-based organization devoted to the lifelong issues of mental retardation, will mark National Mental Retardation Awareness Month in March.

Throughout the month, The Arc of Monmouth will join chapters of The Arc around the country in a media and public awareness campaign aimed at bringing attention to issues concerning people with mental retardation and their families, for the 26th consecutive year.

The Arc will hold a dinner-dance with the theme “Celebrating The Arc Family,” March 18 at 6:30 p.m. at Jumping Brook Country Club, Neptune. In addition, there will be displays at a few libraries in the county with information about the programs and services offered by The Arc and literature about mental retardation.

During the last two weeks of March, a spring clothing drive will be held. Anyone who would like to donate to the drive may bring their gently used or new clothing — appropriate for the spring season — to one of The Arc’s three thrift shops: in Red Bank at 77 Monmouth St.; in Tinton Falls at 1158 Wayside Road; or in Freehold Township at Freehold Raceway Mall on the upper level. The proceeds will go toward The Arc’s programs and services for people with mental retardation.

The Arc of Monmouth serves more than 1,500 individuals with metal retardation each year with education, vocational training, residential services, health care, supported employment, recreation, social services and advocacy. For more information, call (732) 493-1919 or visit www.arcofmonmouth.org.