Our History

The Power of Parents

In 1950, little was known about intellectual disability (then referred to as ‘mental retardation’) and developmental disability, or its causes. There were virtually no programs and activities to assist in the development and care of people with I/DD or to support families. It was common for doctors to tell parents that the best place for their child was in an institution. But these advocates wanted more. They wanted their loved ones to lead fulfilling lives in the community and not be shuttered away in dark institutions. Emboldened by their collective desire to raise their children in the home and their refusal to accept that institutionalization was the only option, The Arc was born.

Through the decades, The Arc has advocated for the passage of state and federal legislation on behalf of people with disabilities and established a broad network of state and local chapters that range from small voluntary groups to large, professional organizations.

Our Local Chapters History

The Arc of Greater Haverhill-Newburyport was formed in 1962 by a small group of concerned individuals and parents determined to improve services for their sons & daughters with developmental disabilities.

In 1998, after 37 years of providing only advocacy services, The Arc was approached by a small group of families concerned their only option upon completion of their educational programs was to place their sons and daughters in sheltered workshops. They enlisted us to help them develop an innovative flexible approach tailored to the unique needs of their children. Thanks to their dream, The Arc has experienced over 20 years of dynamic growth and development, and now support over 350 individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

Timeline: The Arc of GHN Through the Years

Over the last several decades The Arc has been at the forefront of making change happen. Whether through advocacy or by supporting research efforts, The Arc leads the way. Here are just a few highlights!

1960s

Northern Essex County Association for Retarded Children (NECARC) established

First special needs preschool, summer program, day program, recreation, dances, and Candlelight Ball in the Merrimack Valley.

1970s

The Arc’s in Massachusetts create Chapter 766 Special Education Program

This decade marks the beginning of special needs students entering the public schools.

First residential program in the Merrimack Valley, Haverhill Newburyport Human Services.

The Arc spins off both the day and residential program to remain a pure advocacy agency.

1980s

The Arcs in Massachusetts help to create Chapter 688, The Turning 22 Law, and the ADA Law (Americans with Disabilities Act)

Launched the first Merrimack Valley Legislative Reception.

1990s

Name Change to The Arc of Northern Essex County

The Arc begins the first Self Directed Pilot Program with a small group of parents to create flexible day supports, making it’s first contract with the Department of Developmental Services.

2000s

Name change to The Arc of Greater Haverhill-Newburyport and adopted National Arc logo and branding

The Arc creates 25 Family Partnerships through the Boulet Settlement, Individual Support Services, Shared Living, AFC Program, and promotes the voice of people with disabilities and self-advocacy groups in the Merrimack Valley. Key advocate for the creation of the Agency with Choice Program (AWC).