Our History

The Arc Timeline

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  • 1950

    2000s and beyond

    2000s and beyond

    January 1, 1950

    The Boulet settlement for the waiting list is finalized and implemented. The Rolland or Nursing home settlement is implemented.

  • 1955

    1990s

    1990s

    January 1, 1955

    Advent of the concept of support—recognizes that people should receive support to live their own lives; Waiting list begins to be addressed by the legislature and the value of community agencies is recognized by the Commonwealth.

  • 1960

    1980s

    1980s

    January 1, 1960

    Community Services become the norm; people look to housing for adults and independence.

     

  • 1970

    1970s

    1970s

    January 1, 1970

    Special education and de-institutionalization take center stage; nonsent decrees usher in community services; ‘normalization’ becomes the watchword for services; a life in the community.

  • 1980

    1960s

    1960s

    January 1, 1980

    Chapters of The Arc expand their advocacy, convince school systems to offer programs and establish workshops.

  • 1990

    1950s

    1950s

    January 1, 1990

    Families began to band together to support each other and to effect change in both policy and practice. Some early activities include local camps, home schools, and support groups.