The Arc of Greensboro was organized in 1953 by parents of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The initial focus of this grassroots effort was changing public perception of children with mental retardation as well as educating the community about the extraordinary potential of this special population. Much time and effort was spent advocating for services for children and adults who were denied access to day care, preschool, education and vocational training programs.

The Arc of Greensboro was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 1961 and is affiliated with a nationwide network of similar entities that promote and advocate for opportunities that empower people with developmental disabilities to have choices as they live their lives in the community. The Arc of Greensboro is a membership organization – the members elect the Board of Directors and approve the organization’s by-laws. The organization strives to recruit directors and staff who are sensitive to the community’s racial and ethnic diversity, as well as the special concerns of people with disabilities.

The Arc of Greensboro is an organization of and for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, promoting and protecting their human rights and actively supporting their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes. The Arc of Greensboro was created in 1953 as a grassroots community group of parents and other concerned stakeholders to advocate for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Arc of Greensboro is affiliated with a network of similar organizations at the state and national level that advocate and promote inclusive environments and opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to have choices as they live their lives in the community. The Arc of Greensboro continues to grow and adapt to the ever-changing needs of our

The Arc of Greensboro is committed to identifying and securing life-long opportunities for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through advocacy, services, programs and education, The Arc supports individuals and their families in choosing options that lead to productive and satisfying lives. The Arc of Greensboro is an accredited non-profit, United Way organization that provides a variety of services which benefit individuals with an intellectual or developmental disability. The Arc promotes community inclusion,

We believe that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are entitled to the rights afforded every American and that they demand to be included and participate as full members of the community. Here at the Arc we believe everybody deserves a choice and a voice!  We believe in and support the concept of People First. The Arc believes that all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are defined by their own strengths, abilities and inherent value, not by their disability.