Community Navigator

Through the Community Navigator program, clients are linked to services and resources that help remove barriers to meeting their basic needs and stabilize crisis situations. Community Navigators provide educational opportunities and support in order to foster the development of stronger natural support systems, which enable participants to be less reliant on formal (paid) support systems. Community Navigator services promote self-determination, provide advocacy, and identify opportunities for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, their families, caregivers, and providers in order to help them become more independent, self-sufficient, and develop social networks and connections within the community.

The Arc provides advocacy and education for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and assists them in locating resources, navigating systems of support and making community connections.

Here are some of the ways The Arc of NC can help connect the dots:

  • Accessing services
  • Housing and transportation
  • Financial planning and assistance
  • Various sources of benefits
  • Information regarding legal help
  • Information on guardianship and alternatives
  • Opportunities to meet people and build relationships
  • School meetings/IEPs
  • Finding community activities and volunteer placement
  • Creating relationships
  • Problem solving

When supported, individuals will learn to better:

  • Promote self-determination
  • Increase independence
  • Interact with and contribute to your community

A Community Navigator can be your guide! To qualify for this service, an individual must qualify for Medicaid and have an I/DD diagnosis.