In a reciprocal get-to-know-you-better visit, representatives of the Oneida Indian Nation toured facilities of The Arc, Oneida-Lewis Chapter, NYSARC this week in order to learn more about the diverse programs and services offered by The Arc organization to its individuals.

Last fall, Arc officials came to the Shako:wi Cultural Center to learn more about the Oneida people and history, to discuss how the organizations might work together, and how The Arc might have programs that would be of benefit to the Nation. That conversation continued this week, as Nation staff members toured several of The Arc’s many programs, including Precise Promotions, a work-site shop, a residential home, a children’s services program, and dropped in on the College Works program on the MVCC campus.

The Oneida Nation and The Arc, Oneida-Lewis have a long-standing friendship, and have supported one another in various ways for many years. The two organizations collaborate already. The Arc’s workshop programs have trained individuals with the skills they need to become Nation employees. Currently, 17 individuals work in various departments of the Nation’s Turning Stone Resort and Casino, including food and beverage and hotel operations. The Nation also has supported The Arc Oneida-Lewis in the past through grants from the Oneida Nation Foundation. In addition, The Arc used the Nation’s Four Directions Productions studio to produce a promotional video, and The Arc has held workshops, golf tournaments, and special events at the Nation’s Resort facilities.