ARC Services of Macomb, Inc. (ARC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the well-being and quality of life for all persons with special needs and their families.  It is the ARC's goal to assist individuals with special needs, along with their circles of support, to love, live, work, and play in their communities.

The ARC began operation in 1953 as a parent-inspired, grassroots movement.  Parents were concerned with the lack of community-based services for their children with special needs and were looking for alternatives to institutions.  Originally named the Macomb County Associates for Retarded Children, it was considered an educational facility.  As the children grew into adults their needs changed, as did the needs of their parents.  The ARC changed to meet those needs.  Special education became law and the programs offered by the ARC became more vocational in nature.  The preferences of persons with special needs and their families continue to drive the ARC today, and are reflected in its mission statement:

ARC Services of Macomb, Inc. exists to assure that people with disabilities are valued and that they and their families can participate fully in, and contribute to life in their communities.

We are committed to securing, for all people with disabilities, the opportunities to choose and realize their goals and dreams regarding where and how they learn, live, play, and work.

In 1985, the agency name was changed to ARC Services of Macomb, Inc. to reflect its concern for all persons with special needs.  This change was made to avoid labeling individuals and to emphasize the numerous services that are offered to individuals with special needs, their families, and the community.

On June 1, 1997, the ARC moved to it's current location at 44050 Gratiot, in Clinton Township, Michigan.  Located on the east side of Gratiot, approximately one-half mile south of M-59, the ARC is conveniently located near I-94 and M-59.  The building is completely accessible, houses many of the programs and services the ARC provides, and provides conference room availability for the community.  The ARC encourages the use of its building by community-based agencies and individuals for meetings and events.

Today, the ARC continues to emphasize community integration, person-centered planning, circles of support and self-determination.  It is the agency's goal to assist all individuals with special needs to achieve recognition and acceptance as valued members of their communities.  The ARC serves individuals throughout Macomb County, and is currently CARF and ISO certified.

The ARC continues to offer valuable services to individuals with special needs through a variety of programs and services including, but not limited to: vocational opportunities (both within the work center and through community employment); community support services (including community access, assistance with life skills, activities of daily living, and social skills); Fiscal Intermediary services; the Shared Parenting Programs; Circle of Support services (guardianship and alternatives to guardianship); Representative Payee services, and advocacy from birth through life.