Mission & Vision

Mission

The Arc of Centre County embodies and protects the human rights of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and practices person-centered planning which actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.

Vision

The Arc envisions a future in which individuals with disabilities are included as active members in their community, a future where quality services and supports respond to their needs and personal choices and a future enabling inclusion to its fullest extent.

Core Values

People First

The Arc believes that all individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are defined by their own strengths, abilities, and inherent value not by their disability. People with IDD have varying strengths, abilities, and interests. Each person is unique.

Equity

The Arc believes that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are entitled to the respect, dignity, equality, safety, and security accorded to other members of society, and are equal before the law. Society must remove barriers and correct injustices that limit opportunities for people with IDD. Extra action is needed to help people with IDD and their families, who face other forms of bias or discrimination.

Community

People with IDD are part of and contribute to the fabric of society. Everyone benefits when people with IDD are present and participate.

Choice

The Arc believes in self-determination and self-advocacy. Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, with appropriate resources and supports, can make decisions about their own lives and must be heard on issues that affect their well-being.

Diversity

Human diversity is beautiful and powerful. We celebrate, honor, and seek to understand the differences in our identities and life experiences.

Rights

People with IDD have human and civil rights, which must be protected.