History

Since 1952,The Arc of Chester County has led the way in making inclusive opportunities available to individuals with disabilities in Chester County and the surrounding areas.

While the organization has undergone a few name changes through its history, we are now simply known as The Arc of Chester County. When the organization was founded, there were few programs and services for individuals with disabilities. In line with prevailing thinking, many people with developmental and intellectual disabilities were segregated from their community and/or institutionalized at Pennhurst State School and Hospital, Embreeville State Hospital, and other places. The Arc’s founders defied conventional wisdom by advocating and working for public education and community inclusion for their children.

From the beginning, The Arc has been a respected voice for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. The organization continues to be committed to advocating, educating, and providing services to empower individuals with disabilities and their families to enhance the quality of their lives.

A SERIES OF FIRSTS

With the help of churches, organizations, and interested citizens throughout Chester County, The Arc led the way in making inclusive opportunities available to people with disabilities through a series of “firsts” including the:

First pre-vocational program and employment program in Chester County and community-based residential homes.

First community-based classrooms for children with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities

First recreation program of its kind in Chester County for people with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities, which gives parents a much-needed break from caregiving while providing individuals with disabilities opportunities for community inclusion.

First pre-vocational program and employment program in Chester County and community-based residential homes.

First community-based classrooms for children with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities