1918 W. Innes Street
Salisbury, NC
704-637-1521
(Fax 704-637-9921)

In everything we do, we will treat all individuals with dignity and respect.  

A Rowan County United Way Agency

Welcome to The Arc/Rowan!

The Arc of Rowan County, Inc. is a private non-profit organization dedicated to supporting people with mental retardation and other disabilities so that those individuals can reach their dreams.

The Arc of Rowan County is a chapter of the national organization, The Arc of the United States, of and for people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities and their families. The Arc is devoted to promoting and improving supports and services for people with mental retardation and their families. The association also fosters research and education regarding the prevention of mental retardation in infants and young children. The Arc is people - people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities, parents and other family members, and friends of people with mental retardation and professionals who work with them. The Arc is a grassroots organization with 140,000 members who are affiliated through approximately 1,000 state and local chapters across the nation.

The Arc/Rowan is a United Way agency.

The Arc/Rowan is located 1918 W. Innes St., Salisbury, NC 28144. The staff would be happy to provide a presentation to your club, organization, church group, etc.  If you have any questions about The Arc/Rowan, programs or services please call 704-637-1521.

How It All Began...

In 1954, children with disabilities could not attend public school.  Like many chapters at that time, local parents came together with a common need and desire .....to educate their children.  These parents formed an organization called "Parents and Friends of Mentally Retarded Children" , and this group became a chapter of The Arc in 1954. 

The name of our group has changed over the years...

• In 1958 the chapter name changed to Rowan County Association for Retarded Children or "ARC"
• In 1974 the name changed to Rowan County Association for Retarded Citizens.
• In 1991 the name changed to the current name of "The Arc of Rowan County" also used is "The Arc/Rowan".

While our name has changed over the years, our mission has remained consistent.  Advocating for people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities remains our focal point.  The Arc/Rowan has been instrumental in establishing group homes, vocational, recreational, summer programs and public awareness.

From its inception in 1954 and continuing to this day, The Arc/Rowan is an advocate for each person with mental retardation.

Mission Statement
The Arc is committed to improving the quality of life for children and adults with Developmental Disabilities.

Vision Statement
Enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities will be maximized to the highest potential.

Values Statement
In everything we do we will treat all individuals with dignity and respect