The agency was founded in 1962 by a group of parents, frustrated by the lack of support services and quality education available for their children. While many services now are available for families, the system is far from perfect. The Arc of Greater Cleveland can provide desperately needed assistance by working with and on behalf of families to ensure that their family member with intellectual disabilities receives the services he/she needs to experience quality of life.

The Arc of Greater Cleveland has been an independent advocate fighting for the basic needs, safety and rights of children and adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities by helping families secure support services, financial assistance, housing, education and training, employment, health care and much more. The Arc of GC is the only independent voice in the area fighting for equal rights and equal access to services for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

How does The Arc of Greater Cleveland help?

• Provides information and resources to individuals and families to help them navigate the confusing public and private service systems
• Investigates and helps resolve issues that individuals or families might have with service providers
• Teaches individuals with intellectual disabilities how to protect their basic rights and receive equal access to services
• Serves as a watchdog for any agency or organization that provides services for individuals with intellectual disabilities