It was a first, on Saturday, for a local organization for people with disabilities. The Arc of Blair County held an artisan and craft show featuring works by its members.  

The event followed a year-long instructional program at the Arc, focusing on individual skills. Students learned to use different tools, to budget, and to use social skill to develop their  projects.

Arc Executive Director Maria Brandt said the show was a big success.

“This morning, before our members arrived, they were feeling sick to their stomachs, they were nervous, they didn’t know what kind of reception they were going to receive, but we’ve had so many people come through the door, most of them have sold out and they are now taking orders,” Brandt said.

She added that the event showed that the Arc has great gardeners, florists, and woodworkers who would make great employees for local businesses.