Membership Matters

The Arc Gloucester was formed in 1957 by parents seeking help for their children with developmental disabilities. At that time, the only support available for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families was institutionalization.

Working in partnership with the stat e and national chapters of The Arc, our members also helped secure major advances in the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities, including:

• Social Security and Supplemental Security Income for adults disabled in childhood.
• Improved standards for public institutions for people with developmental disabilities.
• Special education provided by the public schools for both school-age children and toddlers.
• Protection under the Fair Housing Act Amendments.
• Greater access to the community under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Stay Informed

Preserving and advancing these rights depends as much today on empowered consumers as it did over 50 years ago when a small group of activist parents formed The Arc.

The best route to empowerment is information, and to help you stay informed we proudly invite you to join The Arc Gloucester. Membership in The Arc Gloucester includes membership in the state and national chapters as well, providing you a comprehensive source of information on issues affecting individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

Become a Member today and continue to:

• Encourage and maintain progressive legislation in the areas of education, health, employment, community living and recreation.
• Develop and promote effective programs and services.
• Make the public aware of the needs, rights, and abilities of people with developmental disabilities.

Funding

The Arc Gloucester's funding support comes from federal, state and local governments, the United Way, civic organizations, individual and corporate donations, memberships, and internal fund raising campaigns.

Your support through membership enables us to continually improve and expand our services.