The Arc was started over 65 years ago by parents fighting to get their children into public schools. Throughout the course of time, The Arc has evolved into the leading advocacy organization for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities and their family members. The need for lifelong advocacy is ever-present for this demographic, and we proudly walk with families through this journey. In good times and bad, in challenging moments and moments of immense pride, through a crisis or victory...The Arc is there.

In 2012, The Arc of Cabarrus County and The Arc of Union County merged to form The Arc of Union/Cabarrus. Following the closing of The Arc of Mecklenburg in 2019, we assumed leadership of the Mecklenburg Self-Advocacy Program, including 3 Aktion Clubs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

We are an advocacy organization committed to securing for all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to choose and realize their goals of where and how they learn, live, work, and play. We provide a number of services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout the area. Please click below to find out more about the services and supports available in your county.

Today, we are one of over 700 chapters of The Arc. We work tirelessly to respond to the needs of both Union and Cabarrus County. We are a proud United Way of Central Carolinas member agency and a chapter affiliate of both The Arc of North Carolina and The Arc of the United States.  Click below to find out more information about our affiliates.