The Arc Of Texas

Causes: Civil Rights, Disabilities, Disabled Persons Rights, Special Olympics, Sports

Mission: The arc ensures opportunities for people with intellectual and related developmental disabilities to maximize their quality of life within our community.

Programs: Advocacy:the arc advocates for the inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities into all parts of the community - from classrooms to the workplace. We advocate for children to receive the services and supports necessary for them to benefit from instruction. Additionally, we conduct monthly parent support group meetings. The arc participates in legislative advocacy by meeting with local and state elected officials to promote programs that support people with disabilities. The fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (fasd) prevention awareness program advocates for health care providers to discuss the dangers of drinking alcohol while pregnant. Fasd is the number one preventable cause of intellectual disabilities.

vocational/residential:the arc owns 17 residential properties, all of which are leased at below market rates to licensed providers to operate as group homes for individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities. The arc owns 2 commercial properties, one of which is leased at below market rates to a licensed provider to operate as a learning center for individuals with intellectual/ developmental disabilities. In 2017, the arc spent over $70,893 maintaining all of these properties so that our clients could live and work in safe, attractive homes and buildings in thriving neighborhoods.

recreation:along with our advocacy work, we provide recreational/social activities each month. Approximately 120 clients attend professional sporting events, dances, theatre productions and/or dinners with karaoke 2 - 4 times each month. The arc's employment advocate works with local businesses, texas workforce commission and service providers to advocate for employment opportunities. The arc sponsors the largest special olympics program in the area, serving over 100 athletes and 100 volunteers in offering 9 sports throughout the year.