The Arc is a nationwide organization made up of parents, volunteers and professionals working to enrich the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. Founded by parents in 1946, The Arc is the largest grassroots organization of its kind in the country. The Arc was founded by Minnesota parents more than 50 years ago as the Association for Retarded Children. In 1989, The Arc changed it’s name in recognition that people of many kinds of intellectual  disabilities, including autism spectrum disorders, cerebral palsy, epilepsy and Down Syndrome, are served by The Arc. As a result of The Arc’s efforts, people with intellectual disabilities now have more opportunities to live, learn, work, socialize and participate in their home communities.

Our Vision

Our vision is a world where people with intellectual disabilities are treated with dignity and respect and have equal opportunities to live, learn, work socialize and participate in their home communities.