Mission & History!

Founded in 1951, The Arc Alliance is a family of related agencies that work together to support individuals with disabilities throughout life and advocate for their inclusion in the community.

young woman holding down syndrome child

Our Mission

The Arc Alliance is committed to support individuals of all ages with developmental disabilities and other disabilities and their families, by providing exceptional personal services, support and training; inspiring hope, potential, and well-being, ensuring valued life experiences and treatment expected by all people.

Agencies

Early Intervention
Services

Serves children 0-3 years with developmental delays

Supports Coordination
Services

Serves individuals 3 years through life with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Guardianship
Services

Serve adults deemed incapacitated by a court

Foundation

Raises private dollars to fund above programs and services

National Affiliation:

We are an affiliate of The Arc of the United States with nearly 700 state and local chapters, and the largest nation community-based organization advocating for and serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Group of people cutting ribbon in front of building
The Arc ad in a newspaper

Commitment to Individuals & Families:

Since the late 1970’s, The Arc Alliance’s primary mission was to provide early intervention services to all children and advocacy to all persons with developmental disabilities. The Arc Alliance, The Arc of Pennsylvania, and The Arc of the United States all were founded in the early 1950’s by parents of children with a disability.  The Arc Alliance continues to be a family driven organization and The Arc Alliance leadership and its Board of Directors continues to have a majority of board members who have a member of their family with a developmental disability.  This includes parents, grandparents, siblings, and persons with developmental disabilities.

Rich History:

Over the many decades changes in terminology, descriptions, and understanding has taken place. The Arc Alliance is committed to person first language and respectful ability descriptions. To understand the transformation within The Arc and the community at large some of the terms in the history reflect the time period and the understanding of that time frame.

The Arc Alliance continues to be at the forefront of disability rights for you and your loved one.  Below is a brief history of our impact in the community.

The Arc and The Arc Alliance History through the Decades

1900’s

1950’s

1960’s

1970’s

1980’s

1990’s

2000’s

A Look to The Future:

Although together we have come a long way, there is much more to be accomplished. As a family and with your support, we know that with the appropriate services and supports, each individual with special needs can be a productive member of the community sharing in all the rights we all hold dear.

The Arc Alliance serves you and your family through providing excellent service, support and care through each of the associated agencies. The Arc Alliance Early Intervention serves you and your newborn through three years old.  The Arc Alliance Supports Coordination cares for you and your loved ones from three years old throughout their lives. The Arc Alliance Guardianship Services Agency provides the care and support your loved one requires as an adult

We join with you in envisioning a society in which all people have the opportunities to enjoy living in a community; develop meaningful relationships; and work, pray and play together with appropriate services and supports.

The Arc Alliance and our family of agencies are excited to be part of the progress your loved one can achieve. As a family focused charitable organization we are honored to count you as part of our family.

Ways To Give

There are endless ways to support The Arc Alliance Foundation that will benefit the individuals with disabilities we serve.  Learn more here or choose an option below

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