The Arc Michigan exists to empower local chapters of the Arc to assure that citizens with developmental disabilities are valued and that they and their families can fully participate in and contribute to the life of their community. Founded in 1951, it is the largest grassroots volunteer advocacy organization in Michigan with 36 Michigan chapters and nearly 5000 family memberships statewide. The Arc Michigan provides information and assistance both to individuals and to local chapters of The Arc. Its activities include:
- Advocate for state and federal activities that benefit people with developmental disabilities
- providing a weekly news and public policy update through the Friday Mail
- distributing a quarterly newsletter to over 5,000 people
- providing parent and professional trainings across the state.
- offering a toll-free information and referral line
- hosting an annual educational conference
- operating grants that work to improve opportunities and quality of life for people with developmental disabilities
The local chapters of the Arc in Michigan support individuals with developmental disabilities and their families in a variety of ways. They serve as a focal pint for information and referral, advocacy and community inclusion within their communities.