Our History
The Arc of Bristol County began in 1959 as a grassroots organization of parents whose children had intellectual and developmental disabilities. Families who once believed they were alone found support and fellowship among other families facing similar challenges. It is an organization with a 64-year track record, helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities gain many rights afforded by citizenship. They work, own homes, and contribute to the rich diversity of their community. The Arc’s advocacy, research, programming, and outreach have been pivotal in these advances.
Today, The Arc of Bristol County provides a wide array of supportive services to over 2,600 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and their families, helping them to maximize their talents and abilities, develop independent living skills, and participate as contributing citizens of their communities.
