NYSARC Changes Name to The Arc New York

NEW YORK, NY (10/27/2017) (readMedia)-- ALBANY, N.Y. - NYSARC, New York State's largest nonprofit organization supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, has changed its name to The Arc New York. It made the name change official at the organization's 2017 Fall Annual Meeting at the Saratoga Hilton on October 27, 2017.

The Arc New York joins nearly 700 state and local Chapters across the country who have chosen to brand with The Arc – the largest national community-based organization advocating for and supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. For the last 60 years, The Arc has staunchly advocated and achieved significant legislative victories that have improved the supports, services, and rights for people with disabilities. The Arc's logo includes the flowing "catalyst" icon which represents a burst of energy and is symbolic of forward motion, optimism, and independence. The new tagline, Achieve with us, conveys The Arc as a provider of opportunity, hope, growth, and achievement.

"We've had a long relationship with The Arc. Aligning ourselves with The Arc is the right thing to do now because it strengthens our national voice, which we so desperately need as Medicaid and our supports are continually being threatened," said The Arc New York's President, Laura J. Kennedy.

In every region of New York State, The Arc New York will continue to advocate on critical issues including securing a living wage for direct support professionals and improving residential opportunities, while continuing to provide quality supports, including residential services, guardianship, employment supports, preschools, and recreational opportunities.

"It's a strong feeling knowing that The Arc New York covers the entire state. Whether we're a large urban New York City Chapter, or a smaller Chapter up in the Adirondacks, our diversity is our strength because we understand the unique challenges being faced across the state as well as the common needs," Kennedy said.

About The Arc New York

The Arc New York, a family-led organization founded in 1949, is the largest nonprofit organization in New York State supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including Down syndrome, autism, and cerebral palsy. With 53 Chapters across the state, The Arc New York supports 60,000 individuals, employs 30,000 people, and has more than 100,000 members. For more information, visit www.TheArcNY.org.