Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Arch Street Center?
  • Arch Street Center is a recreational drop-in center for an adult mental health population.
• Do our members live here?
  • No. This is a day center. The majority of our members live independently or live in group homes.
• How do you become a member?
  • We are a referral-based program. Your case worker, doctor, or psychiatrist can fill out a referral and once it’s received and approved, you come in for an intake appointment, and you are now a member.
• How long do the intake appointments take?
  • The intake appointment goes over the rules of the Center, what we expect from our members, and what our members can expect from us. These appointments typically take between 15-30 minutes.
• Is therapy included in membership?
  • No. While Arch Street is a therapeutic environment, we are strictly a recreational based program.
• Who is eligible for membership?
  • Any adult who has a serious mental health diagnosis is eligible to become a member.
• What kind of activities do you have?
  • We offer at least one structured activity every day. These range from onsite activities like Bingo, arts and crafts, and pool tournaments to off-site activities like going to the beach, sporting events, and museums.
• Are children allowed in the Center?
  • No. The Center is strictly adults only.
• Where does your funding come from?
  • About half of our funding comes from the County (Lancaster County Behavioral Health & Developmental Services). The rest of our funding is from our special events (annual Fishbowl Fundraiser, ExtraGive, etc), grants, and from the generosity of our supporters.
• Are you a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization?
  • Yes! Arch Street Center is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our tax ID is 23-2258376. All donations are tax deductible either in full or in part.
• Do you provide any transportation?
  • We have a Center Van that we use for outside activities as well as “city run”.
• What is City Run?
  • When appropriate, we will drive members who live in Lancaster City close to their homes when the Center closes. Members are responsible for getting to the Center on their own.
• How do I find out if the Center is closed due to bad weather?
  • We will post any closings on social media and on our website.
• How are you handling the COVID pandemic?
  • We are following state guidelines and taking every precaution to keep our staff and members as safe as possible.
• Are there volunteer opportunities?
  • Yes, we offer a variety of ways that you can get involved. Check out our volunteer tab and contact Susanne with any questions.

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