Overview
Initially organized in 1952 and incorporated in 1967, The Arc of Lincoln/Lancaster County is the local chapter of a nationwide network of parents, professionals and concerned citizens committed to promoting and protecting the rights and interests of people with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities.  One in every ten families has a member with mental retardation or other developmental disability.  The Arc has assisted individuals and their families in the Lincoln/Lancaster County area with realizing their goals of where and how they learn, live, work and play.

Individual And Family Support Services
Provide individualized support and assistance to over 1500 families and individuals annually. Offer opportunities for people who share a common relationship or concern to come together, explore issues, share ideas and support one another.

• Family Connections – Meeting monthly during the school year, this program is a way for families and professionals to gain information from a variety of resources in a casual atmosphere.  A free meal is available for all who attend, and free respite/childcare is provided for individuals with or without disabilities, while informational sessions are presented on a variety of topics.
• Dads Events – Quarterly meetings for fathers who have sons or daughters of any age with a disability.
• Sibshops – A fun time and sharing experience for 8-13 year olds who have a brother or sister with a disability.
• People First of Lincoln – A self-advocacy group for people over the age of 18 who have developmental disabilities.  Members are provided with opportunities to learn from one another, improve decision-making skills and build self-confidence.
• Women Investing in Now (WIN) – An opportunity for women who share a part of their lives with an individual with developmental disabilities to focus on supporting themselves and each other.
• People First Junior – People First-Junior is a self-advocacy group for youth between the ages of 14 and 18 who experience developmental disabilities.  People First-Junior will help youth learn skills they will need to successfully transition into the adult world.  Based on the People First model, members will help guide the group, and determine future topics and activities.

Vacation Program

• Provides supervised vacations and cruises for over 300 vacationers each year to various locations such as: Branson, New Orleans, San Francisco, as well as offering Disney Cruises and trips to the Bahamas.  Participants pay for the trip of their choice and we provide volunteer sponsors for their assistance.

Group Residences

• The Arc owns 10 houses providing homes for 50 individuals with disabilities.
• The Arc owns 3 duplexes providing homes for 13 individuals with disabilities.
• Residential services are provided by local service provider agencies.

The Board of Directors consists of volunteers who have a concern for the quality of life of individuals who have mental retardation and other developmental disabilities.