Wood River, IL (September 16, 2022)

The William M. BeDell Achievement and Resource Center (arc) received a $2,700.00 donation from The RiverBend East Rotary Club to upgrade the school sensory room.

School Principal, Jessica Walton, said, “We were able to purchase some larger items to create a calming environment which regulates the emotions of our students who have severe and profound disabilities.” The new items include a HugglePod (a hanging tent), an instrument board, bubble tubes, sensory mats and a swing.

According to arc Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, Katie DeNardo, sensory rooms are very important for individuals who require an environment to help regulate their sensory system, whether they are over or under responsive to sensory stimuli. This regulates and awakens the basic senses (sight, touch, smell, taste, hear), as well as a deeper sensory system - vestibular (movement), tactile (touch detection), and proprioceptive (deep pressure). This designated room helps individuals with sensory issues learn to regulate the brain’s negative reactions to external stimuli by developing coping skills for these experiences.

Executive Director, Chad Rollins, said, “Our civic community has been very good to arc and we’re thankful to the RiverBend East Rotary Club for providing equipment to help us better serve the children.”

Founded in 1957, The William M. BeDell Achievement and Resource Center is a non-profit organization serving individuals with developmental disabilities throughout Madison County. Over 500 children and adults are served by the School, Family Support Unit, Community Day Services and Residential Programs. The School Program serves 70 students, ages three to 21. To learn more about arc, visit www.bedellarc.org. Contributions to the agency can be mailed to arc, P.O. Box 349, Wood River, IL 62095.