Washington / District Of Columbia / United States
The Arc is the national organization for people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities and their families. It is devoted to promoting and improving supports and services for these people. The association also fosters research and education regarding the prevention of mental retardation in infants and children. The Arc was founded in 1950 and is a grassroots organization with 140,000 members who are affiliated through approximately 1,000 state and local chapters across the nation. At the national level, a 24-member national board of directors and a delegate body of representatives from each chapter guide The Arcs work. The company offers services including early intervention, health care, a free appropriate public education and supports for their families. For adults, services and supports may include preparation for employment, help in finding a job, independent living skill training, leisure and recreation activities and any other supports they need.
