EARC: Five Decades of Changing Lives 

Each day, 55 Edmond residents with developmental disabilities wake up with an enhanced sense of purpose, belonging, and independence because of their involvement with Employment and Residential Centers (EARC). 

For over five decades, EARC has operated to provide adults with developmental disabilities the support they need to lead successful lives, whether through employment, daily living support, or residential services. But local thrifters are most likely to recognize the non-profit from its three thrift store locations – two in Edmond, and one in Guthrie. 

The thrift stores are staffed by employees who, because of a range of disabilities, may struggle to find employment elsewhere. But at EARC, they are met with the coaching, support, and environment to thrive. EARC Executive Director, Bonnie Wells, says that it’s less about the paycheck— although payday is always exciting—and more about the sense of individuality the opportunity develops. 

“Our mission is to try and help our individuals have the best quality of life they can,” Bonnie said. “In 46 years of working in this field, I’ve learned that the best way to do this is to help them build independence, financially, and in every way possible. Imagine never being able to buy someone you love a gift, or not being able to contribute to household expenses or pursue your own hobbies and tastes—that is one of the things EARC is able to change for our clients.” 

The employees are supported by staff like thrift store manager Sandi Miles whose research and leadership maximizes the value of every donation, and job coach Rose Owens who has turned individuals with no prior employment experience into teams that “hate to miss a day of work.” 

In addition to employment opportunities, EARC offers assisted living, daily living support, group homes, and an intermediate care facility. These services expand the incredibly limited choices caregivers often face, especially once adults with disabilities have left the school system. 

“Before Community Residential Programs like EARC were funded in the 1980s, caregivers who needed to work were left with limited options like state institutions or nursing homes for care,” Bonnie said. “But these aren’t always the best options for our clients, as young adults with long lives ahead of them.” 

EARC’s living options enable the adults they serve to live at varying levels of independence while transportation and outings equip them with skills like grocery shopping, paying bills, using self-checkout, and engaging with their community. 

“The services we provide aren’t just to give people a place to live out their days,” Bonnie said. There is a difference between living in a community and being a true part of one. We are creating a structure where they can build their unique lives.” 

Those interested in contributing to EARC’s mission are invited to volunteer, donate used items, and the most fun form of contribution: shop! Find your nearest EARC location at earcinc.com.