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The "A Life Like Yours" Movement: Standing on the shoulders of those who came before us.

In1954, what is now The Arc of Southside was formed by families and the community as a local chapter of The Arc of Virginia and The Arc of the United States.  Their hope in building this organization was for their families to have a choice for a better life. 

Families that formed The Arc of Virginia sparked a movement that led to community integration for people with developmental disabilities in Virginia's schools, neighborhoods and communities. Their actions helped pave the way for the services and supports that exist today througout our State. 

While much has been accomplished, the work is not done yet. Thousands of Virginians with developmental disabilities are on waiting lists for community-based services or are living in large, segregated state institutions. As the country continues to face unprecedented fiscal crisis, existing community-based services for people with developmental disabilities are currently vulnerable to budget cuts and/or elimination.

It is our turn to continue the work of the heroes who came before us. The Arc of Southside needs your help to carry on The Arc's important legacy of advocating for the rights and full inclusion of children and adults with developmental disabilities. We hope you will join us in advocating for "A Life Like Yours" for Virginians with developmental disabilities as we work to strengthen and sustain this all too important civil rights movement.

If you would like to receive information regarding Advocacy Alerts on topics and issues that effect people with developmental disabilities, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to be added to our Advocacy Email Distribution List. 

If you or your family member has faced an issue where you felt you were discriminated against due to your developmental disability or if you are having trouble accessing public services contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. at (434) 836.3272 x103 for assistance.

 

Spread the Word to end the Word!

The Arc of Southside believes that ALL people deserve respect.  The words we choose when talking about someone are a strong reflection of our beliefs, impressions and values.  It is NOT about being politically correct, it IS about showing RESPECT.