A Leader in Disability Rights
The Arc is the largest national community-based organization advocating for and with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and serving them and their families. We work tirelessly to uphold our vision that every individual and family living with I/DD in the United States has access to the information, advocacy, and skills they need to support their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
Strong National Presence
600 +
STATE AND LOCAL
CHAPTERS NATIONWIDE
CHAPTERS NATIONWIDE
The National Arc Movement was born as 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 nearly 75 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 150,000 members and a growing number of 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.
Deeply Rooted History in New Mexico
Founded in 1955, The Arc of New Mexico is a statewide chapter that has long been fighting for the rights and dignity of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities in New Mexico. New Mexico is a culturally diverse state with all types of families seeking support for their loved ones with disabilities. The Arc works directly with individuals and their families to insure their quality of life and their ability to choose their own way, while respecting their cultural traditions. The Arc of New Mexico 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.
At one time there were over 15 local chapters around the state. Today there is only one – The Arc of San Juan County. The decline in the number of local chapters can be attributed to aging of the membership and no recruitment of younger leaders, financial hardship or disaffiliation by choice.
Despite the decline in local chapters, the Arc membership, services, and programs continue to grow statewide. The Arc serves individuals and families in all regions of the state. In addition to the Albuquerque Metro office, we have employees working in other regions throughout the state of New Mexico. Services include Guardianship Services, Representative Payee Services, Special Needs Trust Program, Public Policy, and Advocacy and Education programming.
About The Arc of New Mexico
Discover more about the values that guide our work.
The Arc of New Mexico 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.
