What began with six children in 1969, has now grown to more
than 500 children and adults in 2019 being served by Rainbow of Challenges in
Hope. Patti Manus, alongside a small group of mothers of children with
developmental and intellectual disabilities banded together to open what was
then known as the “School of Hope”. The primary focus of the school was to
provide developmental treatment and therapy for children with delays.
The group soon discovered was the need was great in Hope and
the surrounding area. Roots
began to take hold and more children and staff where added. Volunteers came out
of the woodwork. Generous help and donations came from community leaders and so
began the growth of Rainbow of Challenges (ROC). ROC now employs approximately
500 and serves children and adults in Hempstead County and 34 additional
counties in South Arkansas.
In addition to the adult day centers Rainbow Industries, ROC
Enterprises, and Rainbow Junction in Arkadelphia, sites include Making
Rainbows-Hope and Lewisville. ROC likewise has residential facilities, Omega
Home, North Town, South Park Place, Hilltop Place, and Parkview apartments
located in Hope. ROC is also proud of sister-sites for children and adults located
in Prescott.
Children, birth to five-years-old, receive early childhood
developmental therapy so they begin kindergarten with the skills necessary for
a successful education. The ROC/PNC therapy component provides
speech, occupational, and physical therapy for children that are overseen by
highly specialized pathologists and therapists.
Adults are provided with a balanced day of instruction, work,
and fun while reaching their individualized goals. ROC Adult Services in Hope include the
repurposing work from Rainbow Industries and Rainbow Junction, along with the recycling
center at ROC Enterprises, ROC’n Reruns thrift store, the Melon Patch
restaurant, and Rainbow Industries gift baskets. ROC Enterprises also produces
annual contract work for Firestone Building Products in Prescott.
Each
of these services provide opportunities for the individuals to earn spending
money which is then spent throughout the community, teaching valuable life
skills. And, any proceeds received from the recycling market are directed back
into ROC/PNC programming.
This year, Rainbow of Challenges celebrates 50 years of service,
providing expert care and guidance to the individuals served. Numerous events
have been planned throughout the year to spotlight the monumental mark
including a special anniversary reception slated for Wednesday, April 24, from
4:00-6:00 p.m. at Hempstead Hall on the campus of UAHT in Hope. The public is
invited to attend and former board members, staff and others connected with the
organization especially encouraged to come share their fond memories.
“ROC is excited to celebrate with the community our 50th
anniversary,” said CEO Judy Watson. “Without the vision of Patti for a better
life for individuals with special needs, the longtime support of community
members and businesses plus lots of prayers, ROC would not have been
successful. The quote “it takes a village” really does stand true with the
services and supports we provide.
“We want to take the time during the reception to thank everyone that has been involved in our success and we cannot wait to see what the next 50 years will bring, and with the support of the community, the sky is the limit.”