ARCH

Created in 1975, ARCH is an Arizona not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization which offers a full range of services and programs for developmentally, physically and emotionally disabled individuals of all ages. Additionally, it is a neighborhood, community and metro Phoenix resource for youth and adults seeking recreation and sports related activities. ARCH is the only facility of its kind in the State of Arizona and one of only three such organizations in the entire country. ARCH does not receive financial assistance from United Way. ARCH evolved from the realization by community leaders and representatives of a number of Valley charities (Easter Seals, Arthritis Foundation, Muscular Dystrophy Association, Multiple Sclerosis Society, United Cerebral Palsy and the Association for Retarded Citizens) that no local agency offered therapeutic recreation, socialization and rehabilitation programs for handicapped individuals. Through the years, ARCH has become the preeminent provider of recreation and socialization programs and services for handicapped individuals from throughout the Phoenix metro area. In a concerted effort to build upon its formidable foundation, ARCH has not only strengthened existing programs, but has supplemented its basic services with comprehensive educational and wellness programs which help each participant attain a higher level of independence and function. A founding premise of ARCH is that individuals with handicapping conditions should be given every opportunity to develop, both physically and mentally, to the full extent of his or her potential. Handicapped persons should be given opportunities to learn about basic living skills, the functions of self-care, medical care, parenting skills, sex education, child care, home safety, money management, home management, consumer education, community resources and many more. As the only organization of its kind in Arizona, ARCH is in a unique position to teach a wide range of essential skills to handicapped individuals.

Areas Served:

Maricopa County, Arizona

Services Provided:

• Day Treatment and Training, Adults-DTA
• Recreational Products
• Transportation for Day Programs-TRA
• Teaching Aids