The Arc’s Mission

The Arc of Wake County partners with people with developmental disabilities and their families to help them achieve their life goals.

The Arc’s History

The Arc, a national organization serving people with disabilities, was founded in 1950 by a group of parents concerned about the lack of services for their children with developmental disabilities. The Arc movement quickly spread throughout the United States. Since then, nearly 1000 state and local chapters of the Arc and their members have advocated for community services to support people with disabilities and their families.

In 1954, our local chapter, now known as The Arc of Wake County, was formed. Our chapter and its members were active in establishing the first classes for children with developmental disabilities in the public schools, special programs in various churches, residential and employment programs, recreational opportunities and respite care services.

Today, with a membership of nearly 250 individuals and families, The Arc of Wake County provides:

• advocacy
• information & referral
• public awareness
• community education services