In the quiet heart of Carlsbad, where the Pecos River winds through the desert landscape, stands one of the city’s most enduring treasures—CARC, Inc.
From a Father’s Vision to a Lifelong Mission
CARC’s story begins in the 1960s, long before the world fully recognized the rights and potential of individuals with developmental disabilities. Bob and Barbara Forrest’s son, Gary, was born with Down syndrome in 1962—at a time when children like him were often excluded from traditional education and community life. Schools did not have special education programs. Parents had to create their own spaces of care, learning, and belonging.
“Bob was like, ‘We’ve got to do something different,’” Karla recalled during our tour. And so, they did. The Forrests purchased what was then a bird farm and transformed it into a school and training center—a place where Gary and other children could learn, work, and grow. They planted pecan trees. They built classrooms and workshops. Eventually, they even added a swimming pool and a gymnasium to support therapy and recreation.
CARC became not just a program, but a movement—a living expression of love, dignity, and opportunity. Over time, it expanded into nine group homes on the property, each one staffed with caregivers who work around the clock to support residents’ daily lives, goals, and independence.
A Place of Safety, Dignity, and Belonging
For many families, CARC represents both peace of mind and hope. Parents and guardians know that their loved ones are not just cared for, but truly seen and valued.
“This is [like] college,” Karla recalled the explanation to a visiting parent. “You’re sending them to college—a place where they can grow, learn, and live. You can come see them, take them to church, to family events. They’re still part of your life—this is just another home.”
Some residents have been with CARC for decades. Tater, for instance, has lived there since he was 14 years old—longer than some of the buildings have stood. Others, like Elijah, are newer to the community, finding their way into meaningful routines and friendships. Elijah, just 19, works for an oil and gas company cleaning offices and watering plants. “I love that job,” he said, beaming.
Over the years, CARC has evolved—expanding its vocational programs, adjusting to new regulations, and even learning unexpected lessons on how resourcefulness and teamwork has kept the campus thriving.
The Pecan Program: Growing Together
One of CARC’s earliest and most beloved initiatives still thrives today—the pecan program, a sweet symbol of the organization’s roots and resilience. The pecan orchards planted in those early years continue to provide meaningful work for residents and staff alike.
The process is beautifully simple but deeply purposeful. Residents help harvest, sort, and package pecans, learning valuable vocational skills along the way. Some also assist with other jobs across the community—from helping at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park to assisting in local offices or working in CARC’s own dining hall.
Each task is an opportunity for growth and pride. One resident, Kurt, smiled as he described his favorite part of the job: “Weed eating.” Then, just as proudly, he added that he helps harvest and sort pecans, too. Others light up when asked about their shifts—whether it is shredding documents, serving lunches, or planting in the greenhouse.
The pecan program is not just about pecans; it’s about purpose. “Everybody’s doing something,” the staff explained. “By nine o’clock, every person here has somewhere to be—working, learning, or helping.”
The pecan program remains a proud tradition, a reflection of how the organization itself has grown: deeply rooted, resilient, and productive. Every nut cracked and bag filled represents more than just a product—it represents possibility.
A Legacy That Endures
As CARC continues to flourish, the spirit of Bob and Barbara Forrest’s original mission is as alive as ever. Their son Gary, who passed away in 2023 at 59 years old, lived a long, full, and happy life—working in document destruction, tending the garden, and harvesting pecans. His legacy and his parents’ vision live on in every handshake, smile, and shared meal on campus.
For over six decades, CARC has cultivated more than pecan trees—it has grown a legacy of dignity, independence, and belonging. Each pecan harvested is a reminder that purpose and compassion are the strongest roots a community can have.
CARC is more than a facility. It’s a community within a community—one that reminds us that inclusion, purpose, and compassion are the real cornerstones of Carlsbad’s strength. From the orchard rows to the dining hall, from laughter at the dances to the rhythmic crack of pecans being sorted, the heartbeat of CARC is steady, strong, and full of love.
Photos by Rancher’s Daughter Photography
Ways to Get Involved
- CARC’s impact thrives on community connection—and there are plenty of ways to be part of the mission:
- Shop local. Choose CARC pecans and greenhouse plants for your kitchen or garden.
- Lend a hand at events, dances, or seasonal projects.
- Hire a team. Partner with CARC’s vocational programs to provide supported work opportunities.
- Contributions go directly toward housing, transportation, and enrichment activities for residents.
- Even the smallest acts—a smile at the store, a visit to the greenhouse, or buying a bag of pecans—make a difference.
www.carcinc.org
Article written by Karey Jeffress and originally published in Focus Regional 2025 Winter edition.
Karey Jeffress
Karey L. M. Jeffress, Ed.D., MPH, NREMT, is an educator and community advocate committed to preparing the next generation of healthcare leaders. She teaches Allied Health at Carlsbad High School, where she creates engaging, hands-on learning experiences that introduce students to careers in health professions. Dr. Jeffress brings both advanced academic training and real-world experience as a public health professional and nationally registered EMT, and is dedicated to empowering young people in Carlsbad to achieve their goals and build healthier futures. She is also a certified Mental Health First Aid and QPR Suicide Prevention instructor, using her platform to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and expand resources for mental health across her school and community. Her favorite things include her husband Dale, her dogs, coaching cross country, going to concerts and baseball games, the outdoors, and good nachos.
