The Arc is recognized as the foremost partner with families and people with developmental and intellectual disabilities to support and enhance the quality of their lives. The Arc does this through advocacy on behalf of individuals and families at all levels, providing information and technical support to individuals, families, and organizations to assist them in fulfilling their dreams.

The Arc of Shelby County and its national office advocate for specific policies and programs that benefit people with developmental and intellectual disabilities and their families. The Arc also educates policymakers, people with developmental and intellectual disabilities, service providers, families, and others on best practices and issues that impact people with developmental and intellectual disabilities and their families. The Arc’s goal is to be a national force that creates the environment and the opportunities for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities and their families to have choices as they live their lives in the community.

The Arc of Shelby County is an affiliate of The Arc of The United States and The Arc of Alabama and is a partner of United Way of Central Alabama.  The Arc of Shelby County is also accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF).