Tech for Independent Living - The Arc of Northern Virginia

TECH FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING Arc2Independence Who & Where We Serve TFIL Events Videos Contact Us

Tech for Independent Living

Your Personal Support, Always Within Reach

The Tech for Independent Living Program at The Arc of Northern Virginia is dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to achieve full inclusion and active participation in their communities. Through free, customized virtual lessons, the program provides essential tools to build independence and confidence in navigating everyday life.

At the heart of the program is Arc2Independence, our app designed to support individuals with managing daily routines and overcoming challenges. The app offers a comprehensive library of lessons in key areas, including Transportation, Daily Living Skills, Employment, and Safety, accessible on phones, tablets, or computers.

The program also supports disability service providers, group homes, and day programs by offering memberships to Arc2Independence’s general lesson library. These customizable lessons allow organizations to expand their resources and provide tailored support, helping individuals with IDD reach their goals and thrive in their communities.

Join us in building independence and inclusion with Arc2Independence!

womans-hands-holding-iPad-w-Arc4Independence-on-screen

Our mission is to provide tools, resources, and opportunities to help individuals achieve their personal goals, live fulfilling lives, and actively participate in their communities.

We Create Lessons

Our app is designed to meet your individual needs, offering both custom lessons and over 300 pre-created lessons across key areas like Transportation, Daily Living Skills, Employment, and Safety. Whether you prefer a personalized approach, with lessons customized using images, videos, and sounds from your environment, or want to explore our wide range of pre-designed content, we’ve got you covered. With a variety of options and personalized lessons, you can learn new skills, practice routines, and achieve your goals in the way that works best for you.

We Have Virtual Support on a Consistent Tool

Arc2Independence is a reliable tool that provides virtual support, like a travel trainer or job coach, tailored to your personal goals. Accessible anytime, the app offers consistent guidance to help you navigate daily tasks, learn new skills, and achieve independence with confidence.

We Provide Personal Support

Our team is committed to providing personalized support to help you succeed. We take the time to understand your unique goals and challenges. By combining hands-on assistance with the powerful tools in our app, we create a tailored approach to promote independence, build skills, and achieve meaningful outcomes. Whether you’re navigating daily routines, learning new skills, or working toward greater independence, we’re here to guide and support you every step of the way.

We Host Events

We host several events throughout the year, providing opportunities to practice using the app and discover how it can be integrated into your daily life. These events are designed to help you build confidence in activities such as cooking, traveling in the community, ordering food at a restaurant, and much more!

Program Funding

Our program is funded in part by the Enhanced Mobility Grant from the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG). COG unites local governments to address regional challenges, including transportation, housing, and public safety. This grant supports our efforts to provide transportation experiences and lessons that empower individuals with IDD, helping them build independence and navigate their communities with confidence.

703.208.1119 ext. 140 aafrica@thearcofnova.org

Ashley Africa-Osborne

Program Manager

703.208.1119 ext. 140 aafrica@thearcofnova.org

703.208.1119 ext. 117 aschalick@thearcofnova.org

Ashley Schalick

Senior Project Manager

703.208.1119 ext. 117 aschalick@thearcofnova.org

703-208-1119 ext. 143 kwohlers@thearcofnova.org

Keziah Wohlers

Program Specialist

703-208-1119 ext. 143 kwohlers@thearcofnova.org

cmctiernan@thearcofnova.org

Claire McTiernan

Program Assistant

cmctiernan@thearcofnova.org

scornett@thearcofnova.org

Sarah Cornett

Program Assistant

scornett@thearcofnova.org

daniel.soya@thearcofnova.org

Daniel Soya

Program Assistant

daniel.soya@thearcofnova.org

black-mans-hands-holding-smartphone-and-iPad-w-Arc4Independence-on-screen-2

Support Us

Your support makes our work possible

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, The Arc of Northern Virginia relies on private support from individuals, corporations, organizations, and foundations to fund our efforts. Your generous donations help make it possible for us to provide programs, services, and advocacy so that people with IDD can live “A Life Like Yours.”

donate now

Stay Informed with the Latest News and Updates

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Stay in the know

Name(Required)

First Last

Email(Required)