The Arc of Spokane - Community Access

Spokane County is home to approximately 7,000 people who have an intellectual or developmental disability. A developmental disability is a life-long condition that affects a person's ability to reason, communicate or function independently. Autism, cerebral palsy and Down syndrome are the most commonly known forms of developmental disability, although there are hundreds of different diagnoses. From birth through life, people with developmental disabilities face unique and substantial challenges every day.

The Arc of Spokane believes that having a disability should not prevent someone from enjoying a rich and meaningful life. A volunteer-based, nonprofit agency, The Arc of Spokane works to ensure that people with developmental disabilities in our community, and the people who care for them, enjoy the highest quality of life possible. How? By speaking out on their behalf and by providing programs that help our constituents live, work and socialize in our community. We offer:

ADVOCACY
• A strong voice for our constituents about the social and civic matters that affect them
• Training to help parents communicate effectively with their elected leaders (Spokane County Parent Coalition).
FAMILY SUPPORT • Information about resources available in the community for families
• A support network for parents and siblingsINDIVIDUAL ADVOCACY •Crisis intervention servicesTHE ARC COMMUNITY CENTER • Social, educational and recreational opportunities for adultsHOME OWNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES • Help buying a homeTHE PARTNERSHIP 4 SAFETY • Sexual abuse prevention educationSUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT • Help finding a job• Help developing marketable job skillsFINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
• Bill payment services
COMMUNITY ACCESS
• Social and recreational opportunities for seniorsSUPPORTED LIVING
• Community-based living for adults with developmental disabilities