Frequent Questions

The Arc of Riverside County provides person-centered programs that promote independence, skill development, and community inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Programs may include:

- Adult day services
- Community integration activities
- Social and life skills training
- Employment discovery and job support
- Creative arts programming and personal development opportunities
- These services are designed to help participants build independence and participate meaningfully in their communities.

Inland Regional Center (IRC) serves individuals with developmental disabilities who live in Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

IRC helps individuals and families by:

- Determining eligibility for regional center services
- Developing Individual Program Plans (IPPs) based on personal goals and needs
- Coordinating services such as day programs, employment support, and independent living services
- Connecting individuals to community resources and supports
- Organizations like The Arc of Riverside County provide services that may be coordinated through regional center referrals.

Many individuals are referred to The Arc of Riverside County through their regional center service coordinator. If you or a family member receive services through Inland Regional Center, you can speak with your service coordinator about program options and referrals.

You may also contact The Arc directly to learn more about available programs and the enrollment process.

An Individual Program Plan (IPP) is a personalized plan created for individuals receiving services through a regional center.

The IPP is developed with the individual, their family (if appropriate), and their service coordinator. It outlines:

- Personal goals
- Needed supports and services
- Steps to help the individual achieve greater independence and community participation
- The plan is reviewed regularly and updated as goals and needs change.

Day programs are designed to help individuals build independence, social connections, and life skills. Activities may include:

- Community outings and volunteer opportunities
- Social and communication skill development
- Arts and creative expression
- Health and wellness activities
- Life skills training such as money management and personal responsibility
- Programs are typically tailored to the interests and goals of each participant.

Person-centered planning is an approach that focuses on the individual’s strengths, preferences, goals, and interests.

Rather than using a one-size-fits-all model, services are designed around what matters most to the individual—helping them build independence, pursue meaningful activities, and participate in their community.

An intellectual disability (ID) is a condition that affects a person’s ability to learn, reason, and solve problems. It typically begins before age 18 and may also affect everyday skills such as communication, social interaction, and independent living.

Individuals with intellectual disabilities often benefit from supportive services that help them develop life skills, build relationships, and participate fully in their communities.

A developmental disability is a condition that is significant and ongoing, begins before age 22, and substantially limits functioning in daily activities of living.

Examples may include:
- Intellectual disabilities
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Cerebral palsy
- Epilepsy

People with developmental disabilities can live meaningful and fulfilling lives with the right supports, opportunities, and community inclusion.

The Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Services Act is a California law that guarantees individuals with developmental disabilities the right to services and supports that help them live more independent and productive lives.

The Lanterman Act established California’s regional center system and outlines:

- The rights of individuals with developmental disabilities
- The services and supports available to them
- The role of regional centers and service providers
- The use of an Individual Program Plan (IPP) to identify needed supports
- The law helps ensure that people with developmental disabilities can live, work, and participate in their communities with dignity and choice.

Yes. Community engagement is an important part of many programs. Participants may take part in activities such as:

- Visiting local businesses and community spaces
- Volunteering with nonprofit organizations
- Participating in recreational or social activities
- Practicing everyday skills in real-world environments
- These experiences help individuals build confidence and strengthen connections within their community.

Yes. Many adults with developmental disabilities successfully participate in the workforce with the right supports.

Employment programs may help individuals:

- Explore career interests
- Develop job skills
- Practice workplace communication
- Receive job coaching or employment support
- Employment can promote independence, confidence, and community inclusion.

Yes. Family involvement is encouraged and valued. Families often play an important role in supporting individuals as they work toward their personal goals.

Programs may communicate regularly with families and welcome collaboration to ensure the individual’s needs and preferences are respected.

We’re always on the lookout for individuals like you wanting to get involved. Visit our How To Help section to find out ways to donate or volunteer.

We have a responsibility to our community and our donors and work hard to ensure long-term sustainability of the organization. We make our IRS Form 990 available for review, as required by law. Visit our Financials page to learn more.

Our organization takes our privacy policy seriously and takes steps to protect and ensure the safety of our supporters. We do not sell or otherwise disclose information about our volunteers or supporters outside of our immediate organization. This policy has no exceptions. We do not sell or exchange your information with any other organizations, public, private or nonprofit. For more detailed information visit our Privacy Policy page.