History & Background
The Arc of Tri-Cities was founded in 1950, to aid parents and families with children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The Arc of Tri-Cities strives to meet the ongoing needs of Benton and Franklin County Washington multicultural families with children and vulnerable adults. Through its programming and support, The Arc of Tri-Cities aims to enable each IDD individual to achieve his or her fullest human potential.
Many children with IDD grow up to become independent and productive citizens. They can do so only with the committed support of a caring, connected and engaged community. The Arc of Tri-Cities currently serves about 2,000 individuals with IDD and their families. The Arc of Tri-Cities is the local chapter of a broader national organization committed to meeting the needs of the IDD population. Beyond simply meeting the needs of the IDD community, the Arc of Tri-Cities works to create
inclusive opportunities for individuals of all abilities in the Tri-Cities area and to promote inclusiveness in the broader community.
The scope of actions undertaken by the Arc extends beyond the visible day-to-day programs. The Arc’s mission encompasses and drives an extended and complex array of related actions, including school systems, transit systems, government agencies and other entities of the community.
The Arc’s operation is currently measured against the Standards of Excellence (An ethics and accountability code for non-profits) and has a Guide Star Rating of Gold.