Protection is the act of keeping a person safe from harm or injury.
Advocacy means acting and communicating in support of a policy, idea or concern.
The Arc is keenly aware of numerous instances of the abuse and neglect of children and adults with mental retardation by the general public, service providers and even their own families. Individuals with mental retardation living outside the family home, regardless of size or location of the setting, are particularly vulnerable. Protection and advocacy services usually are not available in quality and quantity needed by many individuals and families. Furthermore, families are not usually aware of the services that do exist. The Arc views protection and advocacy as vital in improving and sustaining quality of life.