Fresno Yosemite International Airport and The Arc Fresno/Madera Counties Foster Community Partnership 

Fresno, CA – Today, Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) and The Arc Fresno/Madera Counties (The Arc) held a joint media event to share the positive outcomes for The Arc individuals and its members resulting from a continued community partnership through employment opportunities at FAT. This collaboration enables individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to have meaningful employment leading to job satisfaction and becoming contributing members of their community.

The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities by actively supporting full inclusion and participation in the community throughout an individual’s lifetime. This initiative includes collaborating with partners such as FAT by integrating employment as a key part of living a meaningful and inclusive life for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“Fresno Yosemite International Airport is pleased to be involved with impactful programs and services through The Arc Fresno/Madera Counties that provide advocacy and awareness in support of all individuals and families,” said Director of Aviation Henry Thompson. “We are grateful to be part of the confidence and independence gained through this vocational work experience.”

“Fresno Yosemite International Airport has proven to be an excellent community partner. The open, inclusive, and welcoming environment has assisted individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities obtain professional and personal growth. Our funder Central Valley Regional Center has played a pivotal role in the success of this partnership by providing support and funding,” said Tamica Hill, Executive Director, The Arc Fresno/Madera Counties.

Individuals participating in the Airport Litter Abatement program at FAT benefit from interacting with colleagues, The Arc staff, FAT personnel, and airport travelers and guests, which supports the development of professional and social skills. Participants have a sense of accomplishment from the work performed and contribute to a positive work customer experience by keeping FAT grounds clean and ready to welcome travelers.

“Central Valley Regional Center is proud to support and fund such outstanding programs such as The Arc Fresno and its continued engagement of seeking employment for Californians served by the Lanterman Act.  It is these collaborations that bring communities together, creates inclusion and equality for all who wish to have jobs and foster independence,” said Aaron Olson Director of Community Services, Central Valley Regional Center.

By supporting opportunities for individuals to reach their full potential and become as independent as possible through integrated employment, many participants have been able to establish their own residence, launch their own business, transition to obtain competitive employment, and contribute to their community in various ways.

Fresno Yosemite International Airport – Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) is one of the largest drivers in economic activity in the Central San Joaquin Valley. Domestic and international carriers serving FAT offer Valley travelers daily nonstop flights to Chicago (December 21, 2023 – January 8, 2024), Dallas Fort Worth, Denver, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Portland, Salt Lake City, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Guadalajara, León, and Morelia in Mexico and soon Atlanta (June 2024) and Dallas Love Field (June 2024).

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