The Arc of Gaston County works to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting health and wellness through exercise, life skills, nutrition, employment, peer relations, self confidence, and family.
The Arc of Gaston County is a local non-profit that serves children and adults with Developmental Disabilities. We were established in 1961 by parents, community members, and medical professionals who sought a better life for their children and wanted to be the voices of change. No programs or activities were available to assist in the development and care of children and adults, nor to support their families. We became an affiliate chapter of The Arc of the United States and The Arc of North Carolina, and now serve as a primary resource for people of all ages with Developmental Disabilities, their families, educators, and support personnel in our community. Recent numbers reflect that there are over 6,000 individuals with Developmental Disabilities in Gaston County alone.
The Arc of Gaston County is a small advocacy and support chapter of The Arc. We do not provide any services through Medicaid or other or state/federally funded services. We service the community, and our programs are available for free or for a minimal cost.
Guiding Principles of The Arc
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.
Equity
The Arc believes that people 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.
Community
The Arc believes that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities belong in the community and have fundamental moral, civil and constitutional rights to be fully included and actively participate in all aspects of society.
Self-determination
The Arc believes in self-determination and self-advocacy. People 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
The Arc believes that society in general and The Arc in particular benefit from the contributions of people with diverse personal characteristics (including but not limited to race, ethnicity, religion, age, geographic location, sexual orientation, gender and type of disability).