Chapter Development
If you share the values of The Arc, we invite you to become an affiliated member or chapter and take advantage of the benefits of working with a nationally recognized organization of like-minded people.
All it takes is a desire to make a difference in the lives of those with disabilities in your community! There are several ways you may choose to serve people with I/DD and their families in your local community. Some chapters choose to be advocacy only, some provide after school programs or summer camps or other activities, and there are others who choose to provide an array of Medicaid Waiver services. Families who are given the opportunity to share their hopes, dreams and needs for those in their care are an excellent resource to determine the direction of a new chapter. It all starts with you and the support of your community to get started!
Not only does your affiliation allow you to be part of a strong national identity, it allows you take a seat at the table to influence the direction of public policy on state and national levels. You also have at your disposal state and national resources to help with nonprofit governance and management, marketing assistance and guidance in best practices. As an affiliated chapter, you can access a password-protected section of www.thearc.org for materials to help your chapter succeed. Moreover, you have the opportunity to join a strong network of experienced, top executives of The Arc offering personal and professional support through the state – Alabama Conference of Executives as well as the national professional group – National Conference of Executives of The Arc.
Alabama Conference of Executives of The Arc (ACE/Arc)
ACE/Arc is made up of chapter Executives for the purpose of providing a forum for all chapters to share their concerns, successes, identify trends in supports and services, advocacy efforts and more. ACE/Arc also provides for professioal development opportunities specific to organizational development and services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. No matter the type of chapter you choose to be, advocacy only or direct service provider, all directors benefit from this networking opportunity. It also provides for a united front when advocacy is needed to address statewide systemic concerns.