The Arc of Macomb County is a 501(c)3 non-profit membership association composed of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families, their friends, and the professionals involved in supporting them. The Arc was founded in 1953 by parents with a common concern. The goals of the founding members continue to be reflected in our mission statement: The Arc of Macomb County exists to ensure that people with disabilities are valued and that they and their families can participate fully in, and contribute to, the life of their communities. We are committed to securing, for all people with disabilities, the opportunities to choose and realize their goals and dreams regarding where and how they learn, live, play, and work. We embrace the vision that: The Arc of Macomb County will be a center of excellence in supporting anyone associated with The Arc. We will work until we achieve a society in which every person with an intellectual or developmental disability is able to sustain their own experience of companionship, connectedness, and community. We envision that every person will be treated with dignity and respect. We will engender a sense of safety for all persons with disabilities by providing them with the emotional, mental, and financial skills necessary to achieve their dreams. The Arc's emphasis is on community inclusion through employment, independent living, and community participation so that each person served is a valued member of the community and will be able to achieve their greatest potential. In keeping with this basic philosophy, The Arc offers person-centered services and supports regarding an individual's vocational, social, educational, and residential needs and desires.