About Us

Mission Statement

The ARC of the Treasure Coast empowers children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and other related disabilities, to live meaningful, self-directed lives. Through advocacy, inclusive opportunities, and comprehensive lifelong supports, we promote independence, health, employment, and full participation in the community.

Vision Statement

We envision a community where people of all abilities are valued, respected, and included at every stage of life. The ARC of the Treasure Coast is a trusted leader and critical resource—recognized for innovation, quality, and sustainability—in advancing opportunities that strengthen individuals, families, and the broader community.

Values

Dignity & Respect

We honor every individual as a valued and contributing member of the community, regardless of ability.

Empowerment & Choice

We support children and adults in making informed choices and pursuing their personal goals, dreams, and aspirations.

Inclusion & Opportunity

We believe access to quality programs, services, and meaningful opportunities enables individuals to achieve their highest level of independence and community participation.

Advocacy & Integrity

We are committed to advocacy, human rights, and delivering services with the highest standards of ethics, accountability, and quality.

Excellence & Innovation

We strive for excellence through continuous improvement, responsive leadership, and innovative approaches that adapt to the evolving needs of those we serve.

Collaboration & Professional Growth

We foster a supportive work environment that values teamwork, participatory decision-making, and ongoing professional development for all staff.

Stewardship & Community Responsibility

We are mindful of the needs of individuals, families, staff, funding partners, and the community, and we steward resources responsibly to ensure long-term sustainability.

Empowering Lives, Overcoming Challenges

ARC provides support, assistance and training that will enhance the abilities for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families to thrive each day. But, even more importantly, the ARC prepares individuals with disabilities to overcome any obstacles they may face throughout their lives. Obstacles that may challenge them mentally, physically, socially and/or culturally from achieving their fullest potential. Our programs serve children and adults with a variety of challenges, including intellectual disabilities, Autism, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, Epilepsy, and various other developmental disabilities.

Through a full spectrum of programs and medical technology, we assist with education, skill training, community involvement, physical and behavioral therapy, and developing self-sufficiency for each and every individual.

We are honored to assist and support more than 950 children and adults each month, employing over 240 professionals in healthcare, education, and other related areas of expertise.

History of ARC of the Treasure Coast

The ARC of the Treasure Coast advocates for the rights and full community participation of all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With your help, we are working everyday to build a future of inclusive work, play, worship, community, travel, and more.

ARC of Martin County was founded in 1956 by a group of local parents and concerned citizens who wanted to provide educational and training opportunities for persons with disabilities. Their dream was that a handicapped person could not only survive in society, but flourish. With a passion for changing the status quo, ARC quickly grew into a vital resource not only for families, but for schools, employers, and the larger community. The ARC purchased its first group home in Stuart, Florida, and completed an addition to the property in 1987. The property is still in use today, providing housing to six adults with developmental disabilities who are all considered exceedingly low-income individuals.

The ARC has since opened an additional eight community-based homes with six residents living in each one. Designed to promote independence and community involvement, every home has a highly-trained and passionate staff who work with each individual to assist them in achieving their fullest potential with activities of daily living such as household tasks, finance management, health and medical care, transportation, personal care, and recreation.