When Lee King’s son, Dave, was about to age out of his school services, she didn’t know what options were out there for her son. Having worked at the Training Center in Cape May Courthouse, Lee was already familiar with The Arc of Cape May and knew it would be the right place for Dave.
“The Arc has truly been a godsend for Dave and my family”. Lee shares. “Without their support and devotion, I don’t know what Dave’s fate would have been.”
Dave has been part of The Arc of Cape May Family for over 27 years and is a proud employee of The Arc’s Thrift Shop. “Dave loves helping the customers”, store manager Caterina Dispenza says. “He does an excellent job maintaining and organization our household area and making sure customers have an enjoyable shopping experience.” Dave has been working at the Thrift Shop for the last year after participating in The Arc’s Crew Labor Group for over 27 years. The Thrift store has given Dave the opportunity to establish himself in the community and become self-sufficient.
If Dave is not at the Thrift Shop, you will most likely find him by the Cape May Ferry jamming with the Animal House band. With the support of his devoted family and The Arc of Cape May County, Dave is receiving the support he needs and be an active member in the Cape May community.
“All I want for Dave is for him to be happy and safe”, Dave’s sister, Jennifer King Maggio shares. “I value The Arc for providing a place for my brother where he could be himself and thrive and not be segregated in an institution.”