Last Updated June 2025
This Fact Sheet is available for download in the following languages:
- English: Programs of The Arc of IL
- Spanish Español: Programas y Servicios de Arc of IL
- Polish Polski: Programs of The Arc in Polish Programy dla osób niepełnosprawnych
- Arabic عربي Programs of The Arc in Arabic برامج للأشخاص ذوي الإعاقة
- Simplified Chinese 中国人 Programs of the Arc in Simplified Chinese 残疾人项目
- Traditional Chinese 中國人 Programs of the Arc in Traditional Chinese 殘障人士項目
- Tagalog: Programs of The Arc in Tagalog Mga programa para sa mga taong may kapansanan
- Urdu اردو Programs of The Arc in Urdu معذور افراد کے لیے پروگرام
Because this Fact Sheet is in image form, you may prefer the PDF download. See below for a sample image.
What We Do
We advocate, support, and connect individuals with disabilities and families to ensure they can live as they choose. By influencing policy and expanding services, we improve accessibility, protect rights, and provide resources, training, and education, empowering individuals and families to thrive in their communities.
Advocacy: We fight for disability rights and equity.
Family Assistance: We connect people to build an expansive network.
Resources: We uncover resources and services.
Training: We connect with advocates and gain valuable information.
Our History
The Arc was founded in 1950 by parents of children with disabilities who believed they deserved more. The Arc of Illinois now supports over 300,000 individuals with disabilities and their families across the state.
Programs
Our Advocacy and Public Policy is to drive systems change and transform support services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in Illinois. Join Our Voice! www.thearcofil.org/join-us/
- REV UP Illinois – REV UP Illinois’ mission is to build the power of the disability vote. REV UP stands for “Register, Educate, Vote, Use your Power!” 815.464.1832 x1027
- Going Home Coalition – Going Home Coalition is a diverse statewide network of self-advocates, families, community service providers and allies. We purposefully advocate to create systems change and transition away from institutional living by increasing community capacity and empowering fair and equal choices and opportunities for people disabilities. 815.464.1832 x1027
The Family Advocate Program offers extensive outreach to adults and families across Illinois, specifically those selected from the PUNS list or notified in advance of an upcoming PUNS selection. 815.464.1832 x1032
Family-to-Family Health Information Center
The Family-to-Family Health Information Center collaborates with families and professionals to address health-related issues for children and youth with special health care needs and disabilities under the age of 22. Toll Free: 866.931.1110 815.464.1832 x1017 Español: 708.218.1958
The Family Support Network is dedicated to identifying resources, funding, and services. By focusing on the needs of both individuals and their families, we work to remove barriers and pave the way for long-term support. 815.464.1832 x1032
The Family Transition Project assists individuals and families who are exploring the opportunities of community living, specifically for those currently residing in large institutions. 815.464.1832 x1019
Illinois Life Span offers information and resources on supports, services, and advocacy for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages, as well as their families and other stakeholders throughout the state, through our website and toll-free helpline. Toll Free: 800.588.7002 815.464.1832 x1028 Español: 708.218.1958
The Training Department offers educational programs and training for self-advocates, family members, and professionals across the state. View Our Events! www.thearcofil.org/events/category/arc-events/ Email: training@thearcofil.org