The Arc was organized in 1949 and assisted in establishing: ·The County of Summit Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities. ·Blick Clinic for Developmental Disabilities ·Evant Residential Services ·Ardmore Residential Services ·Hope Homes ·CYO Summer Recreation. In 1993, The Arc expanded to include Portage County. The Arc functions as an advocacy agency and support group for people who have developmental disabilities and their families to assist them in ensuring: ·Independence and human dignity. ·Presence and participation in community life. ·Status as valued community members ·Potential for growth and development. Membership in The Arc is open to any citizen of Summit or Portage County who has a developmental disability, their parents, siblings, friends, staff members of service agencies, professionals, and other community volunteers. Services of The Arc are supported by Summit County and Barberton Area United Way Agencies, federal, state, and local contracts, fund-raising events, membership dues, contributions, and memorials. An Endowment Fund has been established for future support. Gifts and bequests may be made from wills and trusts. Lifetime membership of $500 will be placed in the endowment fund. For more information on ways you can contribute to The Arc, email us, or call 330-836-5863. The Arc of Summit and Portage Counties is a member chapter of The Arc of Ohio, and The Arc, A National Organization on mental Retardation.