Mission Statement
The Arc is committed to securing for all people with developmental disabilities the opportunity to choose and realize their goals of where and how they learn, live, work and play.
The Arc's Core Values
People First
The Arc believes that all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities have strengths, abilities, and inherent value; are equal before the law; and must be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of the level of their disability.
Democracy
The Arc is an organization of, by and for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Our policy decisions are made by informed voting members, organized into affiliated State and local Chapters.
Visionary Leadership.
The Arc values new ideas, innovation and inspired leadership. We seek constantly to improve our focus, knowledge and effectiveness.
Community Participation.
The Arc works toward ensuring that all people have the fundamental moral, civil, and constitutional rights and opportunities to live, learn, work, play, and worship in communities of their choosing.
Diversity.
The Arc seeks and supports diverse leadership and membership. Our concept of diversity includes but is not limited to race, ethnicity, religion, age, socio-economic status, geographic location, sexual orientation, gender, family status, and type and level of disability.
Integrity and Excellence.
Members, leaders and Chapters of The Arc promote our mission, core values, and position statements with integrity and accountability. We conduct our business according to the highest ethical standards.
The Mission of The Arc of Mississippi is:
- To promote the general welfare of persons with developmental disabilities in the State of Mississippi
- To serve as a parent support and advocacy organization
- To further research on all aspects of the condition of developmental disabilities such as the cause, prevention, medical and social treatment and methods of special education and training
- To develop a better understanding of the condition of developmental disabilities by the public and to cooperate with all public, private and religious agencies; international, federal, state and local departments of mental health, rehabilitation, education and health; and institutions
- To further training, education and recruitment of personnel to work in the field of developmental disabilities
- To encourage the formation of local units, to advise and aid these units in the solutions of their problems and to coordinate the efforts and activities of these units
- To further the implementation of legislation on behalf of persons with disabilities
- To serve as a clearinghouse for gathering and disseminating information regarding persons with developmental disabilities and to foster the development of integrated programs on their behalf
- To solicit and receive funds for the accomplishment of the above purposes
- To further the objectives of The Arc of the United States
Approved by the Board of Directors, July 2005