Board of Directors Nomination Application and Materials | Page 2

If You Would Like to Learn More About Us: Go to our web page www.thearcmd.org to learn more
about our advocacy and programs. You can also visit any of our local chapters on-line through our
website. Also visit our national website for our position statements: www.thearc.org.

Core Values of The Arc
PREAMBLE
From its beginning, a major strength of The Arc movement has been that parents, family members
and volunteers have governed the organization. In recent years, self-advocates have also assumed
important roles. Parents, family members, self-advocates and other volunteers are the driving force
in The Arc. From the grassroots of The Arc come the dreams, the philosophy that drives the core
values, the ability to shape public policy and the mutual support that parents and self-advocates
provide for one another.
Core values of The Arc are those values that are subscribed to and pursued at all three levels of The
Arc – national, state chapter and local chapters by volunteer and staff leaders.
THE CORE VALUES ARE:
People First The Arc believes that all people with mental retardation and related developmental
disabilities have strengths, abilities and inherent value; are equal before the law; and must be treated
with dignity and respect. The Arc represents, supports and acts on behalf of individuals and their
families regardless of level of disability or membership in The Arc. The Arc believes in selfdetermination by empowering people with the supports needed to make informed decisions and
choices.
Democracy A democratic process involving members, through affiliated chapters, is utilized to take
positions on important issues, policies and programs.
Visionary Leadership. The Arc leads by promoting the mission, core values and position
statements. We lead with integrity, accountability, and by open, honest and timely communication.
We work with individuals, organizations and coalitions in a collaborative fashion. There is a valued
partnership with volunteer and staff leadership at all levels of the organization that provides mutual
support for their respective roles.
Community Participation. The Arc works toward and believes in the community imperative: that all
people have the fundamental moral, civil and constitutional rights to live, learn, work, play and
worship in safe and healthy communities of their choosing. The Arc has responsibility to ensure the
safety and well being of individuals.
Diversity. The Arc values and insists upon diversity in its leadership and membership. The Arc
actively pursues and welcomes diverse groups (including but not limited to race, ethnicity, religion,
age, geographic location, sexual orientation, gender and level of disability).
Integrity and Excellence. The Arc conducts its business with integrity. The Arc reflects quality and
excelle nce in all its work.
Approved by the Delegate Body, October, 2000