Arc of the United States facts for kids
The Arc of the United States is an organization that helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. These are conditions that can affect how a person learns, understands, and develops. The Arc was started in the 1950s by parents who wanted to support their children with these disabilities. Today, The Arc has chapters in many states and local communities across the country. Its main office is in Washington, D.C..
What is The Arc?
The Arc works to make sure people with disabilities have good lives. They speak up for their rights and help them with important things like finding jobs. They also help employers make their workplaces welcoming for everyone.
How The Arc is Funded
The Arc gets its money from different places. A lot of it comes from people who donate to the organization. They also get money from membership fees paid by people who join local and state chapters. Sometimes, the government also gives them grants or pays for their services.
The Arc believes in treating everyone with respect. They have spoken out against using harsh methods to change the behavior of people with disabilities.
The Arc's History
The very first group of families like this was called the Children's Benevolent League. It started in Washington state in 1936. Later, a chapter was formed in San Francisco in 1951.
Over the years, the organization's name changed several times.
- From 1953 to 1973, it was called the National Association for Retarded Children.
- From 1973 to 1981, it became the National Association for Retarded Citizens.
- From 1981 to 1992, it was known as the Association for Retarded Citizens of the United States.
- In 1992, it changed to its current name, The Arc of the United States. This change happened as the organization grew and wanted a name that better reflected its mission and showed more respect.
Standing Up for Respect
In 2008, The Arc strongly disagreed with a movie called Tropic Thunder. They felt the movie made fun of people with intellectual disabilities. The Arc, along with other groups like the Special Olympics, asked people not to watch the film.
The Arc explained that the movie's portrayal of a character with an intellectual disability was offensive. They said it promoted harmful ideas about people with disabilities. The Arc called for protests and educational campaigns. They also asked the movie's creators to talk with disability advocates. They wanted to explain why the film was hurtful and to encourage more understanding.
