Description: The Arc was created in 1950 by parents and concerned individuals looking for avenues and opportunities to provide better lives for their family members with developmental disabilities. Today there are 120,000 members and nearly 1,000 state and local chapters across the nation.

Mission: The Arc is an association formed in 1950 by family members and friends of people with developmental disabilities.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 developmental disabilities 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 developmental disabilities through education, research, advocacy, and the support of families, friends, and the community.