Proudly serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1949
WE HAVE EXPANDED OUR SERVICES!
PROUDLY SERVING KERN, KINGS and TULARE COUNTIES
What is Bakersfield ARC?
Bakersfield ARC is a non-profit organization that has been providing essential job training, employment, and support services in Kern County for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families since 1949.
Our Mission is simple: To create opportunities that promote independence, enhance well-being, and nurture a sense of belonging. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where individuals of all abilities are able to reach their full potential.
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Your donation directly impacts lives by removing financial barriers and giving our clients the opportunity to participate fully in life. Click Here to Donate today!
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We believe everyone deserves the chance to thrive. The Essential Needs Fund is dedicated to helping our clients cover unexpected personal expenses that can stand in the way of their well-being and success.
What Does the Essential Needs Fund Cover?
Your contributions provide financial assistance to individuals with IDD for:
• Gas for Work: Ensuring our clients can reach their jobs without transportation stress.
• Work Uniforms: Helping clients obtain necessary clothing and tools for employment.
• Unexpected Bills: Covering emergency medical, utility, or unforeseen expenses.
• Childcare Costs: Providing for essentials like diapers and other critical items.
• Health & Nutrition: Supporting health and wellness programs that enhance client well-being.
By donating $50 a month, you become one of our valued ARChitects, helping build futures for individuals with IDD. ARChitects provide long-term, sustainable support, ensuring that our clients can overcome financial obstacles and access the resources they need to succeed.
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Please visit our Tailored Day Services Program Page!
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Click here to learn more about our Access Now Program.
Click here to learn more about our Paid Internship Program.
Click here to learn more about our Supported Employment Program.
Click here to learn more about our Tailored Day Services Program.
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Click here to see current job opportunities at Bakersfield ARC.
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In the works! Will update shortly!
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If you are interested in partnering with Bakersfield ARC in any capacity or would like to explore what that would look like, please give Erika a call directly at 661-932-0215
Join us for
A Night for Bakersfield ARC 2026
“Teaching and educating our Clients to voice their needs within society so they may work together to benefit those around them. We speak favorably on behalf of our Clients and help them see their potential.”
“Every person has value and something to contribute in life. Our goal is to help bridge the gap with our Clients and the community to see each other as important and worthy.”
“Facilitating a sense of community so our Clients have a sense of being known and as a community pursue their goals and dreams. We also provide opportunities for local business owners to employ our Clients.”
In 2023, we celebrated 75 years as an organization!
Enjoy this brief overview video of the history of Bakersfield ARC from our President and CEO, Shawn Kennemer. There is also a notable mention from the previous President of Bakersfield ARC (25 years), Jim Baldwin.
Enjoy!
Parent Story
Debbie Wise has been a board member for Bakersfield ARC for many years. This past year, her own daughter had the opportunity to take part in the services we provide. Watch this two minute video to hear more!
Client Testimonials
Our Clients are the heartbeat of all the services we provide at Bakersfield, Kings and Tulare ARC. Some have been with our organization for 40 plus years, and others are here for a short time utilizing our programs and services. We are proud to know these men and women, and watching them achieve their goals is incredible!
Check out this compilation video for a little behind the scenes of who our amazing clients are!
PROGRAMS WE OFFER
Access Now
We understand that every individual has unique needs and aspirations. Our team of dedicated professionals works closely with individuals in the program to determine what they want from services and to support their efforts to pursue their own goals with an emphasis on developing community integration, independent living and vocational skills.
Tailored Day Services
We break down barriers to successful employment by focusing on the ability of the individual and matching them with best business for success. Tailored Day Services (TDS) is designed to maximize an individual's needs and personal choice through customization of day services and individualized services on a one-to-one basis.
Paid Internship Program
We focus on the ability of the individual, and match them with the best business for success. The Paid Internship Program (PIP) is designed to give individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) the opportunity to gain skills necessary to obtain Competitive Integrated Employment in their preferred field.