Welcome to The Arc of Iowa!

Mission: The Arc of Iowa exists to ensure that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities receive the services, supports and opportunities necessary to fully realize their right to live, work and enjoy life in the community without discrimination.

Values:

People First~ The Arc believes that all people with intellectual and related developmental disabilities have strengths, abilities and inherent value; are equal before the law; and must be treated with dignity and respect.  The Arc represents, supports and acts on behalf of individuals and their families regardless of level of disability or membership in The Arc.  The Arc believes in self-determination by empowering people with the supports needed to make informed decisions and choices.

Democracy ~A democratic process involving members, through affiliated chapters, is utilized to take positions on important issues, policies and programs.

Visionary Leadership~The Arc leads by promoting the mission, core values and position statements.  We lead with integrity, accountability, and by open, honest and timely communication.  We work with individuals, organizations and coalitions in a collaborative fashion. There is a valued partnership with volunteer and staff leadership at all levels of the organization that provides mutual support for their respective roles.

Community Participation~ The Arc works toward and believes in the community imperative: that all people have the fundamental moral, civil and constitutional rights to live, learn, work, play and worship in safe and healthy communities of their choosing. The Arc has responsibility to ensure the safety and well being of individuals.

Diversity. The Arc values and insists upon diversity in its leadership and membership.  The Arc actively pursues and welcomes diverse groups (including but not limited to race, ethnicity, religion, age, geographic location, sexual orientation, gender and level of disability).

Integrity and Excellence. The Arc conducts its business with integrity.  The Arc reflects quality and excellence in all its work.

What We Do:

Since 1953, The Arc of Iowa has been a leader in advocacy and the development of services for people with intellectual and cognitive disabilities throughout Iowa.  

Through 25 local chapters and over 1500 Arc members, we remain committed to improving the quality of life for Iowan's with disabilities.

*  Public Policy- Through individual, group, and systems advocacy, The Arc of Iowa and its affiliated Chapters promote quality, inclusive community opportunities and supports for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

*  Government Affairs- An agenda is developed annually to address current issues on the national, state and local level.  The Arc of Iowa will continually communicate with legislators and key decision makers on  policy issues effecting people with disabilities.

*  Information/Referral- The Arc of Iowa and its affiliated chapters provide information and support to people with disabilities, families, and professionals through phone and personal contact, workshops, conferences, electronic and print media. To read the latest edition of The Arc of Iowa newsletter "INITIATIVE" click here.

Become a Member!

Call or e-mail today to receive an application and join 1500 other Iowan's promoting the betterment of people with disabilities.

Why become a member?

• Adding to the overall voice of people with intellectual disabilities, thereby influency public policy
• Raising awareness to make our community a better place to live
• Educating yourself and others about the latest in your local and state chapter efforts in promoting the betterment of people with disabilities

                     Join today! 

(800) 362-2927 :Toll Free

(515) 210 -6686: Des Moines Area

casey@thearcofiowa.org