Grassroots Advocacy

The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the communities in which they live.

Oregon’s 2019 Legislative Priorities

A Living Wage for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs)

DSPs provide vital supports to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and directly affect the health and safety of thousands of Oregonians on a daily basis. Restructuring the rates paid to DSPs will:

  • Stabilize the workforce by reducing turnover
  • Improve the lives of people with I/DD who rely on DSPs
  • Reduce amount paid to DSPs by government for public aid

Protection for People Under Guardianship

Guardianship should only be used as a last resort when other less-restrictive types of support have been exhausted. Guardians must be held accountable for the way in which they support the protected person.

Congressman Peter DeFazio with The Arc Lane County Executive Director Pam Ring and Marketing & Communications Director Laura Dahill at Town Hall meeting in Eugene.

Criminal Justice Reform

People with I/DD are over-represented in the criminal justice systems as both suspects and victims. The Arc works with lawmakers and law enforcement agencies to eliminate barriers to justice for people with I/DD through training and community collaboration.

Join the Arc


There is power in numbers! Become a member of The Arc Lane County and help support our disability advocacy efforts.

Lend Your Voice at the State Level


The Oregon Developmental Disabilities Coalition advocates at the state level for continued supports for people who experience disabilities. Join the Go! Project Bulletin to receive advocacy updates.

Join the National Movement


Help The Arc U.S. build a strong, unified voice to advocate on behalf of people who experience disabilities by registering with the Disability Advocacy Network.

Contact Your Legislators


Contact your legislators and let them know it’s important for people with disabilities to have the supports they need to live full lives in their communities.