Disability Action-Center

The Disability Action Center is a non-profit agency serving children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in North Central West Virginia. The center offers a wide range of programs to help our members to become independent, contributing members of society. The Disability Action Center, formerly known as the Arc of Marion County, has been providing programs and services for c

hildren, adults and their families since 1958. The founding chapter of the ARC (Association of Retarded Citizens) of Marion County, WV was comprised primarily of parents of children and adult children with mental retardation. The group lobbied for better educational and vocational opportunities for all people with mental retardation or developmental disabilities. As society progressed and the term mental retardation took on a negative connotation, the Association of Retarded Citizens changed their name to simply, The ARC. The mission and goal of The ARC was to always further the lives and opportunities of people with developmental disabilities. In 2008, the ARC of Marion County, WV took a step further by incorporating and changing their name and mission to a more positive and proactive organization: The Disability Action Center (DAC). Since this time, DAC has broadened the scope of our programs to focus more on employment readiness, adult transition, independent living, health and wellness, education and training. The DAC is a United Way agency, governed by a volunteer Board of Directors. We are also funded by membership and support of the community through grants, fundraisers and donations. Mission: The Disability Action Center is dedicated to changing lives by providing individuals with disabilities, primarily developmental disabilities, and their families with the support, knowledge, and resources they need to reach their greatest level of independence. Core Services include: Career Readiness, Experience IT Co-Op, Education and Training, Health and Wellness, Life Skills and Independent Living, Social and Recreational, Exercise and Fitness, Self-Advocacy, and Information and Referral. Vision: The Disability Action Center is a comprehensive education, training, and enrichment center for individuals with disabilities and their families: a place for individuals of all abilities to learn, train, work, recreate, advocate, and be supported in setting and reaching life goals.