Established in 1969 and based in Alvin, Texas, The Arc of the Gulf Coast is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in their quest for self-determination, ensuring that they have meaningful lives in the communities where they live, learn, work, play and worship. The Arc focuses on three primary areas of activity: 1) individual advocacy efforts for adults and children with IDD in their communities; 2) financial assistance for people with IDD and their families; and 3) community advocacy, which includes advocacy with policy makers and support of self-advocates. They respond to individual needs, “one person at a time.” The ARC will also assist with attending ARD meetings. Its service areas are Galveston and Brazoria counties.
If you need help with an autism-related problem and don’t know who to call, the ARC of the Gulf Coast is a great resource! They have attracted many wonderful, dedicated people to their board, and it is an organization which does a lot of good. My only complaint is that Clear Lake technically falls outside their service area. They’ll still try to assist Harris County residents though.