A Leader in Disability Rights
The Arc is the largest national community-based organization advocating for and with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and serving them and their families. We work tirelessly to uphold our vision that every individual and family living with IDD in the United States has access to the information, advocacy, and skills they need to support their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
Strong National Presence
600 +
STATE AND LOCAL
CHAPTERS NATIONWIDE
CHAPTERS NATIONWIDE
With hundreds of state and local chapters across the country, The Arc’s chapter network is on the frontlines from first breath to last to ensure that people with IDD have the support and services they need to be fully engaged in their communities.
Our chapters provide a wide variety of services, supports, and advocacy for people with IDD and their families. This varies by chapter and includes but is not limited to: individual and public policy advocacy; residential, educational, and vocational services; person-centered and financial planning; recreational activities; and other supports that meet the unique needs of the community.
Deeply Rooted History
The Arc was founded in 1950 by parents who believed their children with IDD deserved more – to be included in their communities and to pursue fulfillment and happiness just like everyone else. Ever since then, The Arc has continued to grow and evolve along with the changing needs and issues people with disabilities and their families face — and has played a pivotal role in changing the public perception of disability.
Discover More
Learn more about the values that guide our work.
The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
