Welcome to TheArcLink New York. For 57 years NYSARC, Inc. has been the State's leading voice for people who have developmental disabilities. Due to the collective efforts of NYSARC, its local chapters, donors, volunteers, family members and staff, children and adults who have intellectual and other developmental disabilities can now live, learn, work and play in their own communities.

In 1949, NYSARC, Inc., formerly the New York State Association for Retarded Children, Inc., was formed by parents who were determined to change forever society’s traditional disregard for the needs of their children with intellectual disabilities.

The establishment of our Association marked a turning point for all citizens with intellectual and other developmental disabilities and their families in the United States. As a parent-based organization dedicated to action on behalf of their children, the Association became a unique and effective organizational model which has been duplicated across the nation. NYSARC provided the energy and vision from which all Arcs were born, including The Arc of the United States.

In the years to follow, the Association grew rapidly as a service provider and as the leading advocacy organization in the State. Its founders and leaders were responsible for landmark legislation that secured the rights and dignity of persons with intellectual and other developmental disabilities which is the birthright of every other citizen.

Today, NYSARC, Inc., through our 55 local chapters across New York State, serves more than 60,000 children and adults with developmental disabilities, has a membership of over 71,000, employs 26,000 staff and totals nearly $1.4 billion in operating budgets throughout the State. It is the largest organization of its kind in the nation. NYSARC is proud of its 57 year history and is today as committed as its founders to those we serve.

Through our 55 local chapters, a variety of advocacy, programs and support services are available to children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families. Should you ever need us, please contact the chapter nearest you, or visit our Web site at www.nysarc.org