Arc Mercer Residential Team Brings Consumers Together for an Unforgettable Beach Day

The Arc Mercer’s residential team recently pulled off one of the most anticipated events of the year: our annual Beach Day at Ortley Beach in Seaside, NJ. With nearly the entire agency’s residential consumer population represented, it was a day filled with sunshine, laughter, and community.

Bringing so many people together for a trip of this scale was no small task. The residential leadership and group home managers spent weeks planning, while the transportation department partnered seamlessly with staff to ensure smooth travel for every participant. Thanks to their careful coordination, consumers arrived at the beach eager, energized, and ready for a full day of fun.

By the time they pulled up, the residential team already had everything set and waiting: over 100 chairs, coolers stocked with water, sandwiches, pasta, snacks, sunscreen, and games. As consumers got settled, staff made sure everyone had what they needed—whether it was a seat in the shade, a bottle of water, or a fresh layer of sunblock.

The day’s activities were as vibrant as the weather. Consumers played cornhole, looked for seashells, shared stories, and enjoyed the ocean breeze. Some even braved the waves with staff nearby to provide safe support. The atmosphere was joyful and inclusive, with everyone, consumers and staff alike, joining in on the fun.

Adding to the celebration, the group also recognized several consumer birthdays. In true Arc Mercer fashion, the entire crowd came together to sing and share cupcakes, creating a moment of pure joy and togetherness.

Events like Beach Day highlight what makes the Arc Mercer community so special. Last year alone, the agency facilitated more than 3,600 community integration activities, each one reinforcing our commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for connection and engagement.

Cleanup was just as smooth as setup, a testament to the dedication and teamwork of our mission-critical frontline staff. This event would not have been possible without their hard work and the innovative planning of our leadership team. 

Together, they made sure Beach Day was a true success—one our consumers will remember fondly until next summer.