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Frequently Asked Questions

Nationally, The Arc provides an array of services and support for families and individuals, and includes over 140,000 members affiliated through more than 700 state and local chapters across the nation. The Arc is devoted to promoting and improving supports and services for all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The Arc’s vision is that every individual and family affected by intellectual disability in the United States has access to the information, advocacy, and skills they need to participate as active citizens of our democracy and active members of their community. We work to ensure that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families have the support they need to live an ordinary American life.

We ensure that:

• People with intellectual and developmental disabilities direct their own lives. People choose their services and supports from many available sources.
• People are empowered through nonprofit advocacy. State and federal governments administer programs and set budgets that meet everyone’s needs.
• The Arc is a tax-exempt nonprofit organization governed by a volunteer board of directors.
• People with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families are valued, respected and included in all communities.

The thoughts of the group were expressed in these words by Alan Sampson: “To me, this is a thrilling and auspicious occasion; another milestone carved from travail and tears, and indomitable purpose in the progress against intolerance and for understanding.”

1. To promote the general welfare of mentally retarded individuals.
2. To further the advancement of research and therapy.
3. To develop a better understanding.
4. To further education and training of professionals.
5. To encourage membership, aid parents and coordinate activities.
6. To encourage and implement legislation.
7. To gather and disseminate information and to develop integrated programs for people with mental retardation.
8. To solicit funds.

Twenty local units ratified the constitution February 6, 1951 and the organization came into formal existence.

• 1950: Founded as the National Association of Parents and Friends of Mentally Retarded Children.
• 1952: The name was changed to the National Association for Retarded Children (NARC).
• 1974: The name was changed to the National Association for Retarded Citizens.
• 1980: The name was changed to Association for Retarded Citizens of the United States.
• 1991: The name was changed to “The Arc” and, for the first time, the word ‘retarded’ was removed from the name.

Arc Area Publications