The Arc of South Florida

The Arc of South Florida protects the rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and provides programs that help them lead meaningful, fulfilling lives. Parents founded it in 1953 to answer the lack of programs and basic dignity for their children, and today this local chapter of The Arc serves Miami-Dade County from sites in Miami Lakes, Kendall, Miami Gardens, Florida City and Homestead.

Services begin early. Project Thrive is a no-cost early intervention program for infants and toddlers from six weeks to five years old, pairing a stimulating classroom with physical, occupational and speech therapy. ACE Academy offers PreK through 12th grade schooling for students ages three to 22 with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, speech and developmental delays and other disabilities, with campuses in the north, central and south county. The year-round Out-of-School Program provides after-school, school break and summer camp care that includes siblings without disabilities as role models, and families can join Group Triple P Positive Parenting classes. Therapy services are available at every location.

Adult Services offer job training, living skills and socialization for men and women across the county, supported by the agency's own transportation fleet. Arc Guardianship and Case Management serves adults who cannot act with full independence, and Arc South Florida Trust Services helps families set up special needs trusts that protect benefits.

Members receive event invitations, referrals and support groups. Volunteers work directly with participants, and a Speaker Bureau brings presentations to schools and businesses.