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Causes: Developmentally Disabled Centers, Disabilities, Human Service Organizations, Human Services, Job Training
Mission: The Arc is an association formed in 1950 by family members and friends of people with mental retardation. Today there are 120,000 members and nearly 1,000 state and local chapters. The primary objective of the Arc is to secure for all people with mental retardation the opportunity to choose and realize their goals of where and how they learn, live, work, and play. The Arc is further committed to reducing the incidence and limiting the consequence of mental retardation through education, research, advocacy, and the support of families, friends, and the community.
Programs: Outreach - to increase awareness of disability related issues, as well as promoting inclusion for people with developmental disabilities to business, agencies and health care providers and to individuals in the community. The program provides support to teachers and volunteers supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. Outreach is accomplised by with public education and awareness, community training and family support.
advocacy - to advocate with persons with developmental disabilities and their families to help ensure their civil and legal rights as citizens are upheld and maintained. Issues advocated for include employment opportunities, educational opportunities, affordable housing, accessible public transportation, and funding for services. An integral component of this program is learning to develop their own voice as self-advocates.
heathly living - to increase the accessibility of health services and health information to people with disabilities and their families. This goal is addressed through direct service, individual and community/professional training.