Our Mission
Since 1953, The Arc has been and continues to be committed to securing for all individuals with intellectual and other developmental disabilities (IDD), in partnership with their families, legal guardians, or conservators, the opportunity to choose and realize their goals of where and how they learn, live, work, and play.
Our mission is to empower individuals with IDD to achieve their life goals by providing support that leads to greater independence, choice, and full participation and inclusion in the community.
We envision a diverse and equitable community in which all individuals with developmental disabilities are included, respected, and thriving.
Our History
In the early 1950s, little was understood about intellectual and developmental disabilities. Parents were often advised to place their children in state institutions, leading to isolation from the community. In response, a group of parents formed The Arc in 1950 to advocate for a better life for their children at home and in society.
Our Riverside chapter was founded in 1953 and is now one of over 500 Arc chapters across the U.S. Initially focused on educating parents, we’ve evolved into a professional provider of community-based services for adults with IDD.
Despite progress, stigma against people with IDD persists. Just 70 years ago, individuals could be institutionalized without legal recourse. The Lanterman Act, ensuring community services, passed in California in 1969, and public education for individuals with disabilities became federally mandated in 1975. It wasn't until 2012 that the derogatory “R” was removed from laws and language in our state.
While we’ve made significant strides, there’s still much work to be done. At The Arc of Riverside County, we are committed to helping those we serve enjoy the full benefits of citizenship, as guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution. Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness belong to everyone, and we will continue our efforts until that goal is realized for all people with IDD.
