The Becky Sheetz Recreation Center operates as The Arc of Blair County’s memorial building, uniquely combining recreation facilities with disability advocacy services in the heart of Altoona, Pennsylvania. This multipurpose center provides state-of-the-art amenities while maintaining its primary mission of supporting individuals with disabilities through programs, advocacy, and community integration. The facility creates inclusive environments where people of all abilities gather for special occasions, educational programs, and recreational activities that foster community connections and personal growth.
The center balances public recreation access with its core mission of disability services, offering rental opportunities when not hosting Arc programs for individuals with developmental disabilities. This thoughtful approach ensures the facility serves both the broader Altoona community for celebrations and gatherings while prioritizing essential services for people with disabilities. The welcoming atmosphere encourages community members to engage with disability advocacy while enjoying modern facilities designed for comfort and accessibility.
The Becky Sheetz Recreation Center operates as The Arc of Blair County’s memorial building, uniquely combining recreation facilities with disability advocacy services in the heart of Altoona, Pennsylvania. This multipurpose center provides state-of-the-art amenities while maintaining its primary mission of supporting individuals with disabilities through programs, advocacy, and community integration. The facility creates inclusive environments where people of all abilities gather for special occasions, educational programs, and recreational activities that foster community connections and personal growth.
The center balances public recreation access with its core mission of disability services, offering rental opportunities when not hosting Arc programs for individuals with developmental disabilities. This thoughtful approach ensures the facility serves both the broader Altoona community for celebrations and gatherings while prioritizing essential services for people with disabilities. The welcoming atmosphere encourages community members to engage with disability advocacy while enjoying modern facilities designed for comfort and accessibility.
The spacious main hall accommodates up to 150 guests with flexible seating arrangements suitable for various event configurations. Professional setup and teardown services come included at no additional charge, simplifying event planning for hosts focusing on their celebrations rather than logistics.
The fully-equipped commercial kitchen supports catering needs for large events, available for an additional $20 rental fee. Professional-grade appliances and ample prep space enable food preparation for full-capacity events while meeting health and safety standards.
The large private yard features a covered pavilion providing shaded outdoor gathering space for events extending beyond indoor facilities. This versatile area supports outdoor activities, barbecues, and overflow seating during peak attendance events.
Ample parking accommodates large gatherings without congestion, ensuring convenient access for all guests including those with mobility limitations. The quiet residential neighborhood setting provides peaceful environments for celebrations while maintaining easy navigation for visitors unfamiliar with the area.
State-of-the-art workout equipment serves fitness enthusiasts pursuing health goals through strength training and cardiovascular exercise. Indoor and outdoor sports courts accommodate various athletic activities, supporting both competitive games and casual recreational play for all skill levels.
The six-week Fall Crafting Series runs Thursday evenings from September through October, teaching basic craft techniques for holiday décor creation. Sessions from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM focus on hands-on projects using simple materials like glue and scissors, making creativity accessible without requiring advanced artistic skills. Registration requirements ensure committed participation across all sessions, with time allocated for completing unfinished projects from previous classes.
The Arc’s primary mission involves advocating for individuals with developmental disabilities through various support programs and family consultations. Staff members dedicate extensive time meeting with families, developing support strategies, and ensuring individuals with disabilities receive necessary services and opportunities.
Partnership with Achieva brings employment training programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities, whether high school students or adults seeking workforce entry. These initiatives focus on developing skills for minimum wage or higher positions, welcoming participants regardless of previous work experience.
Planned educational offerings include financial planning workshops helping families navigate disability-related financial considerations. Emergency drill training ensures preparedness for various situations, while CPR certification courses provide life-saving skills valuable for caregivers and community members.
Regular conferences address topics relevant to disability advocacy, family support, and professional development for service providers. The Arc Scholarship Fund supports attendance at out-of-area camps, trainings, and educational opportunities through coverage of registration fees, travel expenses, and educational materials.
The facility welcomes rentals for bridal showers, baby showers, birthday parties, and organizational meetings within alcohol-free environments. The $30 hourly rate includes facility access, with a $75 security deposit required via money order ensuring responsible facility use.
Arc of Blair County members receive 10% discounts on facility rentals, encouraging membership while supporting the organization’s advocacy mission. Priority scheduling ensures Arc activities and programs maintain precedence over private rentals, preserving the facility’s primary purpose.
Rental packages include complimentary table and chair setup/teardown services, eliminating additional labor costs for event hosts. Trash removal services ensure clean facilities post-event without requiring renter involvement in cleanup activities.
Rental inquiries require advance coordination through phone (814-946-1011) or email (mail@thearcblair.org) during specified hours Monday through Thursday, 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Response times may extend to two business days due to staff commitments to disability support services, requiring patience from potential renters.
Online registration through The Arc website streamlines enrollment for classes and programs, though manual registration remains available for those preferring traditional methods. Cancellation policies include $10 fees for withdrawals less than four days before events, ensuring program viability and resource planning.
Non-members attending Arc programs pay $5 participation fees, encouraging membership while maintaining program accessibility. Members enjoy various benefits including rental discounts and priority program access, supporting organizational sustainability.
Community volunteers support Arc activities and programs, gaining valuable experience working with individuals with disabilities while contributing to meaningful advocacy efforts. The scholarship fund recognizes volunteer contributions by supporting their attendance at educational opportunities enhancing their service capabilities.
Hoagie sales and similar fundraising initiatives generate resources supporting Arc programs and services for individuals with disabilities. Community participation in these efforts directly impacts program availability and quality for Blair County residents with developmental disabilities.
