First Step Arkansas

First Step Arkansas is community- based provider for individuals with developmental disabilities. The organization assists about 1,900 clients ranging in age and needs, said Brett Chancellor, CEO.

One of the organization’s facilities is located in Malvern.

First Step also has facility located in Hot Springs, Fordyce and Glenwood. About 300 First Step clients live in Hot Spring County and several families from nearby communities come to the Malvern facility for services, Chancellor added.

In total, First Step employees assist clients across 27 counties.

They provide a variety of services including serving children and adults. The organization has a preschool setting program and a residential program for children, as well as working with local public school to serve students.

For adults, the organizations has day services to help clients become more independent along with helping individuals with job ready skills.

Staff also provides assistance in residential setting ranging from helping people in their own homes to an assistance living setting, Chancellor said.

First Step began in Hot Springs in 1958 with a group of parents, civic leaders and health professionals. The organization began with only seven students.

“First Step aims to reach children and adults with developmental delays and disabilities by offering treatment, therapies, and services to help each individual reach his or her full potential,” according to the organization.

Chancellor said staff were hoping to work

Open on new projects in 2020, but instead everything was put on hold due to the COVID- 19 pandemic. Throughout the year, various classrooms and departments had to be quarantines and individuals tested positive for the virus.

He said that is thankful that the virus did not affects children clients much, but noted that adult clients and staff were affected.

Along with continuing to provide regular services, the staff at First Step helped clients and their families through this difficult time.

Chancellor said the staff organized food pantries and assisting families with COVID- 19 testing and vaccines.