History

The Arc Movement was born 60 years ago from a grassroots movement of families working vigilantly to create services for children and adults who were being denied day care, educational opportunities and work programs.

The National Arc was founded in 1950. The Arc was comprised of a small group of concerned and passionate parents and community members who would be catalyst for changing the public perception of children with disabilities.  For the past 60 years, The Arc has continued to grow and evolve along with the changing needs and issues people with disabilities and their families face.

Today The Arc is the largest national community-based organization advocating for and serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.  With more than 140,000 members and 730 state and local chapters nationwide, we are on the front lines to ensure that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families have the support they need to be members of the community.

Founded in 1955, The Arc of New Mexico has been in the front lines of battles, large and small, for the rights and dignity of persons with developmental disabilities in New Mexico. The Arc works directly with individuals and their families to insure their quality of life and their ability to choose their own way. The Arc of NM also works with the New Mexico Legislature, State Agencies, community leaders, providers, families and other advocates to fight against discrimination, fear, segregation and abuse and for freedom, choice, respect and dignity.