About Us:
Founded over 50 years ago, The Arc of Massachusetts represents the interests of over 120,000 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
We enhance the lives of people through legal and legislative advocacy, information and education, much of it through 20 chapters in communities throughout Massachusetts. We work closely with other state and national human services organizations, legislators, elected and appointed public officials.
Together with The Arc of the United States, we combine the best elements of grassroots support and advocacy so that individuals can thrive in their communities or address the barriers in their way.
The Arc of Massachusetts's focus is full integration into the community for all activities. Through advocacy and collaboration with others, The Arc of Massachusetts has helped to establish and maintain significant legislation and funding on both the state and federal levels.
Our accomplishments include:
AT THE STATE LEVEL:
Establishment and growth of community-based services.
Legislation and funding for quality of supports, including Salary Reserves for Direct Care Staff.
Creation of a separate state agency to address the needs of individuals with intellectual & developmental disabilities.
Passage and implementation of Chapter 766, the Massachusetts Special Education Law.
Establishment of the Respite Care and related family support services.
Passage and implementation of Turning 22 law/funding for students graduating from high school.
Waiting List funding for adults who need housing, employment, or day services.
Fair Housing legislation.
AT THE FEDERAL LEVEL:
Supplemental Social Security and Medicaid long-term services.
More flexible funding from Medicaid, such as the home and community-based waiver.
PL 94-142: The Education of All Handicapped Children Act (Federal Special Education Law).
Vocational Rehabilitation Services.
The Developmental Disabilities Act.
Early Intervention and Childhood programs.
Housing Programs in HUD.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, OR TO APPLY, VISIT http://www.arcmass.org/InternBios/tabid/643/Default.aspx
Where we're located:
The Arc of Massachusetts
217 South St.
Waltham, MA 02453