The Arc of Chester County is dedicated to providing services and programs that build better lives for people with mental retardation and other disabilities.

Description:
The Arc provides services and support to people with disabilities throughout their lifetime. Many come to the early intervention program as infants and then access other services, including advocacy, parent support groups, community employment, life skills training, or recreation. The agency serves nearly 1,200 people annually throughout Chester County.

History:
The Arc was organized in 1952 by parents concerned about the lack of educational opportunities for their children with mental retardation, as well as by the lack of understanding of the general public and elected officials about this population. In the very early years of The Arc, there were few programs and services for special needs individuals. In line with prevailing thinking, many were institutionalized. Families defied conventional wisdom by advocating and working for public education and community inclusion for children with disabilities, a role that continues today. The Arc remains dedicated to enhancing the dignity and promoting the welfare of all citizens with special needs. The private, non-profit organization is committed to securing the opportunity for all individuals with mental retardation to choose how they live, learn, work and spend their leisure time.

Contact person: Diane Carey, Executive Director, (phone), (email)
Office fax number: (610) 696-8300

Address:

900 Lawrence Drive West Chester, PA 19380 (See a map)

Web Site: http://www.arcofchestercounty.org

Directions:

From Route 202, exit onto Paoli Pike, traveling west. Turn left onto Five Points Road. Follow Five Points Road past the West Goshen Community Park to Lawrence Drive. Turn right onto Lawrence Drive and follow to the end of the. . . (more)   Nearest Bus Stop: N/A For maps or information, please see http://www.septa.com/

Miscellaneous Information

Are court referrals welcomed?
	No