Finally, The Arc advocates for research and prevention of both the causes and the effects of mental retardation. The Arc is recognized as the foremost partner with families and people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities to support and enhance the quality of their lives. The Arc does this through advocacy on behalf of individuals and families at all levels of The Arc and at the legislative, system and individual levels. Providing information and technical support to individuals, families and organizations assists them in fulfilling their dreams. At some point in his or her life each person with mental retardation may need an advocate.
Advocacy takes place at the personal, local, state and national level.
Individual advocacy should be available through every local chapter of The Arc. At the state level, advocacy occurs with the executive and legislative branches of government, administrative agencies, school districts and other providers and provider organizations. At the national level, advocacy opportunities exist with Congress, executive branch agencies, federal courts and organizations representing entities that interact daily with people with mental retardation, including teachers, and those in law enforcement, housing, transportation, recreation and health care. Local and state chapters of The Arc and its national office advocate for specific policies and programs that benefit people with mental retardation and their families. The Arc also educates policymakers, people with mental retardation, service providers, families and others on best practices and issues that impact people with mental retardation and their families.