Who is Arc of East Central Iowa?

 Who is the Arc of East Central Iowa?

Founded in 1953 in Cedar Rapids, The Arc of East Central Iowa is a non-profit agency that supports over 800 individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families. Due to the advocacy of determined parents, institutions are now the exception and not the norm. Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) were enacted to provide services that promote independence, community integration, and removal of barriers. The Arc is an authorized agency for HCBS services and it accounts for the majority of services the Arc provides.

What do they do?

The Arc offers many programs and services that enhance the lives of their clients. These programs include Supported Community Living (SCL), Consumer Directed Attendant Care (CDAC), Intermittent Medical Monitoring and Treatment (IMMT), HCBS Habilitation Services Program, and Community Integration. 

Read more about the Arc's services and programs.

How do they enhance our community?

With doors open to everyone, this welcoming environment brings people of all abilities together to live, learn, and grow by participating in different ways with other organizations. The Arc places emphasis on getting clients out in the community for recreational, social, and skill building opportunities.  

"We improve the quality of life for individuals and families affected by epilepsy, autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, ADHD, and brain injury. We believe in building better lives for people with disabilities and their families." - The Arc

Why is being an inclusive organization important?

The Arc believes in choice for all. "If we don't interact with those outside of our organization, so much opportunity for choice is lost. Diversity is the seed of progress." - The Arc