Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What are intellectual and developmental disabilities?

A. Intellectual and developmental disabilities include Down syndrome, autism, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy and other related conditions. 

Q. What is the service area of The Arc Rockland?

A.  The Arc Rockland serves individuals and families from Rockland county.

Q. What kind of help does The Arc Rockland provide?

A. We help people make connections, get answers and find their way. Services span the lifetime, from infant to seniors, providing help at every stage of life for education, health care, housing, employment and family support.

Q. Are services for members only?

A. No. Hundreds of individuals and families receive services each year and only a portion are members. No one is turned away.  

Q. Why should I become a member of The Arc Rockland?

A. Only a generation ago, people with disabilities were institutionalized and largely invisible. Today people with disabilities have many options for where they live, learn, work and play. Changes in public policy constantly threaten funding for programs and services. Join us.

Q. Can I volunteer at The Arc  Rockland?

A. Of course! Share your time with us and we will use it well! Volunteer opportunities range from helping with support groups and trainings and volunteering on committees to assisting with special events and mailings. We also offer internships for those wishing to gain course credits and experience within our community.

Q. What is "People First" language?

A. People First language puts the person before the disability and it describes what a person has, not who a person is. An example would be to say "people with disabilities" instead of "the handicapped or disabled."