The Arc of Winnebago, Boone and Ogle Counties  

History:

In 1966, a group of parents of children with disabilities such as mental retardation, Down syndrome, autism, and cerebral palsy decided to ignore the current wisdom that said they should send their children to institutions. They  started a local chapter of the national advocacy organization, The Arc USA, (at that time The Association of Retarded Citizens). Parents and family members came together for mutual support, to promote the welfare of persons with mental retardation, and to cooperate with public and private agencies having similar purposes.

In 1996 the Board of Directors renamed the organization; The Arc of Winnebago, Boone and Ogle Counties. Out of respect for those  stigmatized by being described as “mentally retarded”, that term was removed. The term: "Developmental Disabilities" or "Cognitive or Intellectual Disabilities", now describes such disabilities.

Now, as then, the focus of The Arc remains:

1.      To help families raise children diagnosed with a developmental disability at home.

2.      To support adults to live in their community, close to work, family and friends.

3.      To advocate for full participation of people with disabilities in the life of their communities, with the supports necessary to lead good lives.

Our Vision: A Society For All, Equal Access, Equal Opportunity, Empowerment

Our Mission: We serve people with disabilities of all ages, through support and advocacy.