Since the early 1950’s, our grassroots advocacy is the foundation of our agency.  Our founding parents wanted to create a rightful place in society for their children, develop educational opportunities, increase physical, verbal, communication and daily living skills and promote better personal and social opportunities.  They realized their children deserved to have a fair chance to succeed in life.

As a result of their efforts, children with developmental disabilities were able to go to school, adults were moved out of institutions and people were employed in community positions.

Due to their grassroots action and those by The Arc New York (formerly NYSARC, Inc.) led the United States in establishing the rights of children and adults with developmental disabilities.

Legislative Advocacy

Family members, friends, volunteers, staff and self advocates were unwilling to rest until they succeeded in making real change.  They realized that true progress was linked to the passage of key federal and state legislative mandates.  Thanks to their relentless, hardworking efforts, the people we serve are now able to conquer everyday challenges and achieve their dreams by working, learning, socializing, volunteering, recreating and leading full, productive lives.  Consequently, they are being accepted and integrated throughout their communities.

Currently the purpose of Legislative Advocacy is to provide, educate and inform family members, advocates, staff members and the community of impending local, state and federal legislative issues that affect the lives of individuals, families and the agency itself.  Our hope is to quickly disseminate information and raise awareness to all of our stakeholders.

For up-to-date information, please refer to Advocacy (thearcny.org)