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

History of The Arc/Rowan

How It All Began...

In 1954, children with disabilities could not attend public school.  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", and "The Arc/Rowan" is also used.

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 and developmental disabilities.