Mission

Serving and advocating for individuals with developmental and other disabilities so they may have the opportunity to choose and realize their goals. Ridge Area Arc in Avon Park, Florida is a private, not for profit 501(c)3 organization, which was founded in 1957 by Franklyn and Mary Ellen Ward. At the time their son, Rob, was born there were very few places to work with disabled children.

Many families sent their child away to a distant institution. The Wards did not want to send their son away and sought a way to provide the needed educational resources and training. They also realized other families in the area needed these services. Thus, the Ridge Area Arc Day School began in 1957, and served 17 children ages seven and older from Highlands county.

Arc now provides 10 services to approximately 190 individuals with developmental and other disabilities from Highlands county.

Ridge Area Arc is a member of The Arc of the United States and The Arc of Florida. Arc is supported through private contributions and Ridge Area Arc Foundation.