Programs at THEARC

THROUGHOUT 30 YEARS OF PROVIDING HOUSING FOR THE RESIDENTS OF SOUTHEAST WASHINGTON, THE SMITH COMPANY HAS ENDEAVORED TO BUILD HEALTHY COMMUNITIES AS WELL AS QUALITY RESIDENCES.

In Ward 8, residents desperately need a place to gather for recreation and community activities, and children need safe, supervised places to learn and play. To meet that need, the company formed a non-profit organization, Building Bridges Across the River, to develop such a place. THEARC is modeled on the town hall concept and brings cultural arts, recreation, education, and health providers together under one roof.

The 16-acre campus situated on Mississippi Avenue in Oxon Run was completed in 2005. THEARC is within walking distance of over 7,000 children. The $27 million, 110,000 square foot facility houses local and national service providers, including:

• ArtReach
• Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Washington
• Covenant House Washington
• Children’s National Medical Center
• Levine School of Music
• Trinity University
• Washington Ballet
• Washington Middle School for Girls

THEARC’s location within Oxon Run Park offers the opportunity for outdoor recreation and exploration of the city’s natural resources. The campus features two ADA-compliant playgrounds, a basketball court, and a community garden.

A 365-seat state-of-the-art theater showcases local and national talent and provides a venue for local schools to hold assemblies, concerts and graduation ceremonies. THEARC serves more than 85,000 individuals annually.

For more information:
THEARCDC.org