About Us
The Arc Vision
A world where people with disabilities are included in their communities and neighborhoods and where quality supports and services respond to their needs and personal choices.
The Arc Values
- People First. The Arc believes that all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities have strengths, abilities and inherent value; are equal before the law; and must be treated with dignity and respect. The Arc represents, supports and acts on behalf of individuals and their families regardless of level of disability or membership in The Arc. The Arc believes in self-determination by empowering people with the supports needed to make informed decisions and choices.
- Democracy. A democratic process involving members is utilized to take positions on important issues, policies and programs.
- Visionary Leadership. The Arc leads by promoting the mission, core values and position statements. We lead with integrity, accountability and by open, honest and timely communication. We work with individuals, organizations and coalitions in a collaborative fashion. There is a valued partnership with volunteer and staff leadership at all levels of the organization that provides mutual support for their respective roles.
- Community Participation. The Arc works toward and believes in the community imperative: that all people have the fundamental moral, civil and constitutional rights to live, learn, work, play and worship in safe and healthy communities of their choosing. The Arc works to ensure the safety and well being of individuals.
- Diversity. The Arc values and insists upon diversity in its leadership and membership. The Arc actively pursues and welcomes diverse groups (including but not limited to race, ethnicity, religion, age, geographic location, sexual orientation, gender and level of disability).
- Integrity and Excellence. The Arc conducts its business with integrity. The Arc reflects quality and excellence in all its work.
The Arc History
The Arc was established as a ground breaking organization in the 1950’s creating a new era of societal and legislative change for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Today there are chapters throughout the United States advocating and serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
The Arc National & Local Partners
The Arc of Wichita County is one of 38 local chapters affiliated with The Arc of Texas, working to provide additional supports and services to families in communities throughout the state. The Arc of Texas is affiliated with The Arc of the United States, which advocates for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities on a national level.
The Arc Board of Directors
The committed men and women on our Board of Directors are concerned individuals passionate about helping people with disabilities. They have experienced both the challenges and the triumphs associated with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Their personal stake in The Arc's mission provides our volunteers, members, and professional staff with wisdom, inspiration, and guidance.
The Arc Members
Our members are people with intellectual and developmental disabilities; their families and friends; the professionals and service providers who work with them; and others who are passionate about changing the way our society views people with disabilities. We also invite you to join The Arc family. Become a member today!
The Arc Staff
Working for The Arc is more than just a job for many of our professional staff. With guidance from our board of directors, The Arc of Wichita County staff work hand-in-hand with our many volunteer members to fulfill The Arc's mission.
- Marlene Goldstein, Executive Director, mgold@arcwctx.org
- Michelle Crow, Program Coordinator, mocrow@arcwctx.org
- Crysti Ruth, Secretary, crysti@arcwctx.org
- Jill Moore, Thrift Store Manager
- Kathy Fisher, Social Activities Coordinator, socialco@arcwctx.org
The Arc Funding
The Arc of Wichita County is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, nonprofit organization. We receive funding from a variety of sources, including private donations, membership dues, fundraising events, Hands to Hands Community Fund, and grants. One of our strategic goals is to conduct our organization's business with the highest level of integrity. If you would like more information about our operations, please call Marlene Goldstein at 940-692-2203 or mgold@arcwctx.org.
