HISTORY

The Arc of North Carolina has been providing advocacy and services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1953.

The Arc of NC – since 1953.

The 1950s

Beginning

  • Nearly 200 people met in High Point and formally organized State ARC (now called The Arc of North Carolina). Within 3 months, the membership totaled 1,272.
  • 551 children are in special education classes across the state.

The 1960s

Growth

  • The NC ARC became an official State Chapter of the National ARC.
  • Due to the advocacy of the ARC, Governor Terry Sanford established the NC Council on Mental Retardation.
  • Legislature appropriated funds for first ADAP services.
  • Governor Bob Scott publicly states appropriations for services for people with disabilities would not have passed if not for the work of The ARC.

The 1970s

Successes

  • Bill passed to extend instruction to children with special needs who are under six years of age.
  • Housing Development in NC started with grant from Division of MH/MR/SAS.

The 1980s

Transitions

  • First corporate guardianship services provided.
  • Focus on transition from school to work initiated by The ARC.
  • The ARC of NC receives grant for PARENTS project.
  • The Arc sponsors first Self-Advocacy conference with more than 570 participants

The 1990s

Expanding

  • Leads in establishing the DD Consortium.
  • 200th group home opens in NC.
  • 1993- ARC/NC officially changes name to The Arc of North Carolina.
  • 200th group home is opened by The Arc of NC.
  • The Arc of NC hosts Family Service Centers for the Special Olympics World Games

The 2000s

Anniversary

  • The Arc of NC celebrates the 50th anniversary of the organization.
  • The Arc provides support services to more than 2,600 people with disabilities in NC.
  • The Arc manages more than 400 properties statewide, providing stable and affordable housing to more than 2,300 people.
  • The Arc provides services to people in nearly every county statewide
The 1950s
The 1960s
The 1970s
The 1980s
The 1990s
The 2000s