About Us
Built on Inclusion, Powered by People
The Arc of Virginia exists to build a world where everyone belongs—and where systems, communities, and opportunities are shaped by the people they are meant to serve. We are a membership organization made up of—and led by—people with developmental disabilities and their families. Inclusion isn’t just a value—it’s how we operate. Our staff and Board include individuals with developmental disabilities and family members who bring lived experience and leadership to every part of our work. Together, their voices reflect the full diversity of developmental disabilities and support needs. We believe meaningful change happens when we listen deeply, lead boldly, and work together.
Led by People with Developmental Disabilities and Families
The Arc of Virginia is the statewide advocacy organization led by and made up of people with developmental disabilities (DD), their families, and their allies. As a membership organization, we are powered by people across the state who share a vision of true inclusion—and it’s their voices that guide our work. Our local chapters, members, and partners drive the priorities that shape our advocacy, outreach, and support.
Together, we’re building a future where all people—regardless of their support needs—are included, respected, and supported to live
A Life Like Yours.
Connected Locally and Nationwide
We are proud to be the Virginia state chapter of The Arc of the United States—the largest national community-based organization advocating for and with people with developmental disabilities and their families. This national connection strengthens our ability to create change, while our network of 21 local chapters grounds us in the unique needs of communities across the Commonwealth. Our local chapters are deeply rooted in their communities—offering support, building relationships, and working alongside families and self-advocates to make inclusion real, both close to home and across the state.
When you join a local chapter, you become part of a powerful movement—connected to The Arc of Virginia and The Arc of the U.S.—working for lasting change.
Rooted in Advocacy
Advocacy is at the heart of everything we do—fighting for policies that protect and advance the rights of people with developmental disabilities while promoting both self- and family advocacy. We believe people with disabilities and their families should be at the center of decision-making, and we work to ensure they have the tools, information, and support to participate fully.
Each year, we provide guidance and direct advocacy to over 500 families—helping them navigate complex systems, connect to critical services, and find a path forward.
From legislative campaigns to advocacy trainings to grassroots mobilization, our work spans local, state, and national levels.
It’s how we move from individual impact to systems change.
Representing the Full Diversity of Developmental Disabilities
Our members reflect the full range of developmental disabilities—including autism, intellectual disability (ID), cerebral palsy, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), Down syndrome, and other lifelong conditions that impact learning, development, and everyday life. Our work recognizes that support needs vary widely—from those who live independently with minimal assistance to those who require round-the-clock care.
The experiences of our members help shape the direction of our advocacy and the priorities we pursue. Even when perspectives differ, we continue working toward a system that honors individual needs while advancing equity and inclusion for all people with developmental disabilities.
A Life Like Yours
A Life Like Yours reminds us that people with developmental disabilities want the same things as anyone else—at every stage of life.
As kids, that means the chance to
play,
learn alongside our peers, and be
included. As adults, it means having a
home of our own, a meaningful
job or way to
spend our days, and
relationships we trust and value. These are the things that make up a good life—for all of us.
Mission
The Arc of Virginia promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
