The Arc of Colorado - Advocating for people with developmental disabilities for over 50 years...
Public Policy...
When The Arc was founded more than 60 years ago, public policy at the state level centered on funding state run institutions that “warehoused” people with disabilities. In 1960, the average life expectancy of people with developmental disabilities was less than 25 years. Public school classrooms were closed to people with disabilities. There were no curb cuts or bus lifts for wheelchairs. Children born with disabilities were often taken from their parents and sent to state “training” schools never to be seen again.
The Arc movement fueled by passionate and dedicated family members helped to change that bleak outlook.
The Arc played a critical role in advocacy for PL 94-142 -- now known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA); the Americans with Disabilities Act; State Children’s Health Insurance Programs, Mental Health Parity, and more.
Over the years, Colorado chapters of The Arc have been at the forefront advocating for laws and policy to:
We work with elected officials and leaders of state agencies to advocate for funding, legislation, and policies that make a positive difference in the lives of people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities and families.
See the 2011 Public Policy Platform link: Public Policy Platform 2011
When The Arc was founded more than 60 years ago, public policy at the state level centered on funding state run institutions that “warehoused” people with disabilities. In 1960, the average life expectancy of people with developmental disabilities was less than 25 years. Public school classrooms were closed to people with disabilities. There were no curb cuts or bus lifts for wheelchairs. Children born with disabilities were often taken from their parents and sent to state “training” schools never to be seen again.
The Arc movement fueled by passionate and dedicated family members helped to change that bleak outlook.
The Arc played a critical role in advocacy for PL 94-142 -- now known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA); the Americans with Disabilities Act; State Children’s Health Insurance Programs, Mental Health Parity, and more.
Over the years, Colorado chapters of The Arc have been at the forefront advocating for laws and policy to:
- Close Colorado institutions
- Fund community based services and supports
- Ensure that all Colorado children have access to Early Intervention Services and inclusive classroom education
- Promote supported employment opportunities
- Require health insurance coverage for people with developmental disabilities
- Strengthen laws prohibiting abuse and exploitation of people with disabilities
- Promote self directed services and ensure that services can be provided in the family home
- Expand the definition of developmental disability
We work with elected officials and leaders of state agencies to advocate for funding, legislation, and policies that make a positive difference in the lives of people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities and families.
See the 2011 Public Policy Platform link: Public Policy Platform 2011