What We Do
The Arc of DFW Area was created by families, for families. We are an all-volunteer agency which does not provide direct or paid services. Our mission is to empower individuals and families with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) to live life as they define it through advocacy, awareness, training and support.
The Arc of DFW Area provides information and referrals to the I/DD community and provides educational, advocacy, and awareness opportunities. More specifically, we offer regular training on I/DD topics, such as special education, transition to adulthood, legal rights and options, and Medicaid supports. We also seek to collaborate with local and state policy-makers to advocate for the I/DD community and educate them on I/DD priorities.
Educational Resources
The Arc of DFW Area is here to support the I/DD community by empowering its members with knowledge and support resources.
We provide regular educational opportunities on I/DD topics, such as special education, transition to adulthood, legal rights and options, and Medicaid supports.
Self Determination Group
The Arc of DFW Area is honored to be affiliated with The Self-Determination Group. Established in 2014, The Self-Determination Group is run by and for individuals with disabilities (14 & older) with the support of an advisor.
We provide regular educational opportunities on I/DD topics, such as special education, transition to adulthood, legal rights and options, and Medicaid supports.
Self-determination is a combination of attitudes and abilities that lead a person to create a meaningful life based on their own wants, needs, desires and dreams.
Self-determination is about being in charge, but is not necessarily the same thing as self-sufficiency or independence. It means taking control and responsibility for one’s life. Practicing self-determination also means one experiences the natural consequences of choices made.
Learn More about the Self Determination Group
Workforce and Employment Resources
The Arc of DFW Area believes the disability community is one of the most overlooked talent pools in today’s labor force, while at the same time many individuals with disabilities are legally being deprived their right to earn pay commensurate with their work. We support individuals with disabilities having a career of their choosing while making meaningful wages.
Learn More about Workforce and Employment Resources
Parents & Care Givers Resources
The Arc of DFW Area has remained true to our heritage. We were founded by families of individuals with I/DD and it continues to be our passion to support families and individuals with I/DD. When we find valuable resources to help on this journey, we want to share them with the community and pay forward the support we’ve received.
Learn More about Parents & Care Givers Resources
Advocacy Resources
The Arc of DFW Area works to empower members of the I/DD community and their families to be their own best advocate. As an organization, we also collaborate with policy makers about the needs of the I/DD community.
To begin the journey to advocacy you should create a vision; looking ahead and planning for what you or your loved one wants and needs. To do so you must be informed about your or your loved one’s disability. You will also want to learn about options and possibilities and connect with others. This is where The Arc of DFW Area can help.
Learn More about Advocacy Resources
Knowledgebase::
See Disability Differently
- A Different Perspective
- Advocacy: Disability Rights
- Beyond Programs: A Parable
- Segregation vs. Community
Help is Available
- Family Support
- Government Funded Resources and Services
- Guardianship Alternatives
- Assistive Technology
Learn and Grow Together
- Inclusive Education
- Post-Secondary Education
- Special Education
Life After School
- Employment
- Housing