Disability Rights, Services, and Support for People with IDD and Families
The Arc is the largest community-based organization in the United States advocating for and with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families. We help people get information, supports, and practical tools for inclusion in school, work, health care, and community life.
Our national team works on disability policy, legal advocacy, and systems change. We engage with Congress and federal agencies, participate in disability rights litigation, support fair treatment in the justice system, and deliver programs and resources that reach communities nationwide.
Want to see what this looks like in real life? Watch “This Is The Arc,” a short video that highlights the stories and perspectives of people with disabilities and their families, along with the advocacy and community supports that make inclusion possible.
Strong National Presence
549
State and Local
Chapters Nationwide
Chapters Nationwide
With 549 state and local chapters across the country, The Arc helps people with IDD and families find local services, support, and advocacy.
Chapter services vary by community and may include:
- Individual and systems advocacy
- Education supports and special education advocacy
- Employment and transition supports
- Housing and community living supports
- Person-centered planning and future planning
- Family support and caregiver resources
- Recreation and community connection
Our History: Disability Rights and Inclusion Since 1950
Founded in 1950, The Arc is one of the nation’s largest community-based disability organizations. We have helped advance major disability rights and services milestones, including laws and protections connected to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Medicaid, and community living.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Arc
Is The Arc an acronym?
No. The Arc is not an acronym, and it doesn’t stand for other words. Always refer to us as The Arc, not “The ARC” or “ARC.”
Is The Arc affiliated with other “ARC” organizations?
No. The Arc of the United States is not affiliated with organizations outside The Arc chapter network that use “ARC,” such as the Appalachian Regional Commission, Association of Related Churches, or ARC Raiders.
Some affiliated chapters have local names that include acronyms or legacy branding. These organizations are part of The Arc chapter network.
What is The Arc of the United States?
The Arc of the United States is a national nonprofit that advocates for and supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families.
What does IDD mean?
IDD stands for intellectual and developmental disabilities. It includes disabilities that begin before adulthood and can affect learning, communication, and everyday life. Common diagnoses are autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
Who does The Arc support?
The Arc supports people with IDD and their families. We also work with allies, professionals, and community partners who share the goal of inclusion and full participation in community life.
What issues does The Arc focus on?
The Arc focuses on disability rights and the supports that make community life possible. Key issue areas include Medicaid and long-term services and supports, special education and IDEA, civil rights and voting access, disability and the criminal justice system, employment and economic security, future planning and financial security, assistive technology and digital inclusion, and family support.
Is The Arc nonpartisan?
Yes. The Arc is nonpartisan and works with leaders across the political spectrum to protect the rights of people with disabilities and strengthen the services and supports people and families count on.
Does The Arc provide services?
Many local chapters of The Arc provide direct services and supports in their communities, and services vary by location. The national office also provides programs, resources, and advocacy that support people with disabilities and families nationwide.
Is The Arc a national organization or a network of chapters?
Both. The Arc of the United States is the national office, and we lead a nationwide network of affiliated chapters. Many chapters use The Arc name, and some operate under their own local name while remaining affiliated. Chapters affiliate with The Arc of the United States support the shared mission and meet affiliation standards.
How do The Arc and local chapters work together?
The Arc of the United States is the national organization. Our network includes affiliated state and local chapters that are separate nonprofit organizations. Many chapters use The Arc name, and some operate under their own local name while remaining affiliated.
1. National: The Arc of the United States leads federal advocacy, national initiatives, and coordination across the network.
2. State: State chapters support and connect local chapters, lead state-level advocacy, and may provide programs or convene statewide self-advocacy and family networks.
3. Local: Local chapters provide services, supports, and/or advocacy based on community needs.
Not every state has a state chapter, and local chapters aren’t in every community. Find what’s available near you: Find a Chapter
How do I find disability supports and services near me?
Use Find a Chapter to connect with your local chapter of The Arc. Your chapter can help you understand local services, supports, and advocacy options.
How do corporate partners and funders work with The Arc’s chapter network?
The Arc partners with companies and funders to advance disability inclusion in communities nationwide. The Arc combines national disability policy and program expertise with strong local presence through a national network of affiliated chapters. That means partners can support work that is visible nationally and meaningful locally, reaching people with disabilities and families in local communities. Learn more about partnering with The Arc.
I’m a journalist. How do I contact The Arc?
Visit our Press Center for expert sources, background, and reporting resources, or email our media contact listed there to request an interview or commentary.
Discover More
Explore The Arc’s mission, values, and policy positions.
The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
