Become a Member

Every member of The Arc of Orleans County adds strength to our voice at both the local and state levels. That voice calls on policymakers to provide resources to help people with developmental disabilities live full, productive lives in their communities.

Membership is the foundation on which we built The Arc, as well as every NYSARC Inc. chapter in the state. Members provide:

  • Volunteers for programs and committees.
  • Manpower and energy for fundraising and public awareness.
  • Staff for special events and other important activities.

Benefits of becoming a member of The Arc of Orleans County:

  • Receipt of The Arc of Orleans County’s newsletter, Inside The Arc.
  • Participation in the largest not-for-profit organization in the nation (NYSARC, Inc.), for families and individuals with mental retardation and developmental disabilities.
  • Participation in the national organization, The Arc US.
  • Volunteer opportunities.

Your membership helps The Arc of Orleans County and NYSARC:

  • Provide advocacy for people with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities in your local community.
  • Fund information, education, advocacy and support programs for parents and family members.
  • Help people with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities plan services for themselves.
  • Provide volunteers to plan, insure, implement and evaluate policy and services in local community.
  • Provide an opportunity for individuals to become involved in community services for youth and adults of all ages.
  • Develop legislative agenda that reflects the needs of people with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities.
  • Provide leadership and training opportunities for membership at the state level.
  • Build coalitions with parents and professional organizations in planning and implementing public policy on a statewide level.
  • Inform and educate the public about mental retardation and other developmental disabilities and its prevention or ways to reduce the incidence of mental retardation/developmental disabilities in future generations.
  • Provide advocacy to protect the rights of people with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities and their families through state legislation and policy.

How can you become a member of The Arc of Orleans County?

Membership in The Arc of Orleans County automatically makes you a member of NYSARC, Inc. and The Arc U.S.

Please call
Denise Withey, Community Relations Specialist
(585) 589-5516 ext. 227 or E-mail
dwithey@arcoforleans.org