Desert Arc is the only nonprofit organization in the desert communities within the larger Coachella Valley – Morongo Basin serving people with developmental and intellectual disabilities including conditions such as Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, Epilepsy and many others.

There are approximately 700 people, ages 18 and older, who are enrolled in Desert Arc’s programs designed to help them secure employment, have a safe place to come to every day, and interact with others. And, most importantly, to reach their highest potential to live, work, and socialize in the community.

Desert Arc is dedicated to social innovation and we have also created a variety of enterprises providing Business Services for companies and individuals. These include our Shredding, Recycling, Landscape Maintenance, Janitorial and Fulfillment divisions. Pathways to Employment is the umbrella for our vocational, on-the-job training and supportive, job placement service programs, working directly for Desert Arc or within our fellow employer network.

Our life-changing programs also encompass an Adult Day Center, Behavior Management, Cafeteria Services, FYI – For Your Independence and ILS – Independent Living Skills supportive living, Sports and Recreation, Transportation programs, and many more.
According to a recent demographic study, 66.9% of the people served by Desert Arc reside with their families, 20.2% live independently, and 12.9% are part of a residential care program, and nearly 99% come from low-income households. Many people have been involved with Desert Arc for over 25 years, but the majority have participated in our programs for 1 to 15 years.

There is much to celebrate, each and every day at Desert Arc…
those we serve, our dedicated Board of Directors, stellar staff, and generous supporters!