Mission and History

OUR MISSION

The Arc of Texas promotes, protects, and advocates for the human rights and self-determination of Texans with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Texans with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) can and do make decisions about their own lives—especially when supports and services are available. And these Texans must have an opportunity to inform decision-makers when issues that can affect their well-being are being considered.

The Arc of Texas is a statewide advocacy and membership organization that supports and advocates for these rights. We work with and alongside individuals with IDD and their families to identify barriers and solutions to inclusive education, competitive integrated employment, quality community-based services and supports, and access to civil rights and justice. Our members inform our policies. The Arc of Texas provides support and training so members speak out for their rights through their advocacy work at state agencies and the Texas Legislature. Together, we have a 67-year history of promoting, protecting, and advocating for the human rights and self-determination of Texans with IDD.

OUR VISION

The Arc of Texas envisions a world where Texans with intellectual and developmental disabilities are included in their communities where quality supports and services are available to meet their needs and choices.

Founded in 1953 by a group of parents of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities, The Arc of Texas has been instrumental in the creation of virtually every program, service, right, and benefit that is now available to more than half a million Texans with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Today, The Arc of Texas continues to advocate for including people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in all aspects of society.