Mission, Vision, and Values
Mission
The mission of The Arc Carroll County is to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their individual pursuit of a fulfilling life.
Vision
The Arc Carroll County is a leading organization that champions for and supports people with developmental disabilities, while cultivating relationships that enrich our community.
Values
Innovation. Our founders pioneered the opportunities that exist today for people with developmental disabilities. We build on their courageous tradition of innovation and creativity in the design and delivery of our services.
Integrity. We operate with integrity in all that we do – as a service provider, as an employer, and as members of our community.
Respect. We treat everyone with respect. Dignity, choice, ability, privacy and opinion are fundamental principles of who we are.
Quality. We embrace the highest standards in all that we do. Quality in service and character drives our actions and attitudes.
Caring. We act with a genuine spirit of caring. A sincere interest in and concern for the complete well-being of all people define our actions.
History
The Arc Carroll County was founded in 1955 by a small group of parents of children with developmental disabilities. At that time, these children were excluded from public education and there were no structured social, recreational or educational activities.
This group of parents was committed to forming a community-based system to provide necessary services for their children. That first year special education programs were established in the basement of the Davis Library on Main Street in Westminster and in the Mount Airy American Legion.
Since that time, The Arc has advocated for and worked to provide support to people with developmental disabilities and their families. Today The Arc is one of Carroll County’s largest non-profit organizations serving nearly 700 adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities.