Why Is Membership Important?

The Arc of Spokane was founded in 1950 by parents who wanted to make life better for their sons and daughters with developmental disabilities. They banded together to work more effectively and discovered that united they had a far greater voice than any one of them had working alone. That is the power of membership.

The Arc's first mission has always been to advocate for the needs of people with developmental disabilities and their families.  With more members, we'll have greater influence with local, state and Federal policy makers when decisions that affect you and your family are at stake. 

How much does it cost?  Only $15 a year. We keep the cost low so anyone can support our mission. We also offer scholarships for self-advocates (adults with developmental disabilities) who need financial assistance (contact bholloway@arc-spokane for more information).

How many people are members of The Arc?  About 250. We're the largest chapter of The Arc in the State of Washington, but we'd like to increase our membership to 500 by 2010 to be even more effective.   

Who can join?  Anyone. Our members are regular people just like you--parents and family members of children with disabilites, professional educators and care givers, adults with developmental disabilities, business people, neighbors and friends. If you care about making life better for people with developmental disabilities, join us.   

Do I have to volunteer?  Not if you don't want to. Simply being a member is a significant contribution to our mission. It tells people with developmental disabilities living in Spokane that you support their efforts to be live richer and more fulfilling lives.

What are the benefits of membership? Your greatest benefit will be the satisfaction of supporting an important mission in our community. But as a member, you'll also have the right to vote for our board of directors and proposed changes to bylaws. You can also get special rates on life, home and auto insurance through The Arc of the United States.  Click here for more information about insurance discounts.   

How are my membership fees used? Membership fees generate enough money to pay for our Annual Meeting on the second Tuesday in March. Your being a part of our mission is more valuable to us than the money we get from fees.  

What kinds of things does The Arc advocate for? Early members of The Arc were instrumental in opening public schools to children with special needs and encouraging community living as an alternative to permanent institutionalization. The Arc also founded one of the first supported employment services in Spokane to help people with developmental disabilities find good jobs and greater independence.

More recently The Arc of Spokane helped prevent deep cuts in public bus service in Spokane in 2004 and worked again to keep our buses funded in 2008. Last year, we worked closely with the state legislature to encourage passage of a bill that increased the number of families receiving benefits for their children by 1,300. If you'd like to become involved in our advocacy effort, visit our volunteer page.               

Click the "Buy Now" button (below) to join or renew your existing membership today.

Or click the icon below to download a membership application. Mail the completed application with your check to:

The Arc of Spokane
127 W. Boone Ave.
Spokane, WA 99201