The Arc is a grassroots organization formed in 1950 by a small group of parents and other concerned individuals. Today there are 160,000 members and over 1,400 state and local chapters across the nation.
We work on the local, state and national levels to:
Offer guidance and support to persons with disabilities and their families
Monitor, support and advocate for national progress in education, health, employment, residential living and other aspects of community life.
Raise public awareness of the abilities, rights, and needs of people with disabilities.
Develop and promote effective programs, services, and other kinds of support.
Involve and educate the community about the known causes and prevention of mental retardation is infants and young children.