Quality of life often begins with the caregiver. The Arc provides information, referrals, resources, seminars and more or caregivers to enable them to deliver the best care and support.

Disabilities EXPO

The Arc collaborates with Region 10 Education Service Center, Garland ISD, Richardson ISD, Mesquite ISD and other area agencies to bring a host of information and resources to caregivers at the Disabilities EXPO. For more information, contact April Allen, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or (214) 634-9810.

Great Expectations

The Arc provides information sessions and seminars to educate and inform parents, caregivers and professionals about disability-related issues. These efforts include training, and conferences. Topics include Guardianship, Social Security Income, Special Needs Trusts, IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), Behavior Management, Social Skills Training, and more. Seminars are held throughout Collin, Dallas and Rockwall counties in collaboration with community partners. To get on the mailing list for Great Expectations, contact Susann Longoria, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or (214) 634-9810. For more information, contact Drew Dixon, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it (214) 634-9810, extension 107.

Guardianship Services

Sometimes family cannot provide sufficient support as guardian to an adult with an intellectual disability. Under some circumstances, The Arc can become the "guardian of the person". The Arc of Dallas accepts referrals to provide guardianship to residents of Dallas and Collin Counties with previously diagnosed intellectual disabilities who are incapacitated and between the ages of 18 and 49. Candidates must lack family or friends whom the court considers appropriate to act as guardians, and have exhausted all other less restrictive alternatives. Upon acceptance by The Arc and appointment by the Court, The Arc of Dallas will become the guardian of the person and will provide case management collaboration and oversight. A match is made with an appropriate Volunteer Advocate whenever possible. Volunteers will provide regular visits in a residential setting as well as appropriate advocacy. For more information, contact LaFreda Smith, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , or call (214) 634-9810, extension 109.

Money Management

The Arc of Dallas accepts referrals to Money Management who are in need of a Representative Payee. Upon acceptance The Arc will become the Representative Payee and assist clients with bill paying, setting up a budget, and money management services. The client has to be willing to follow the guidelines of the program. For more info, contact LaFreda Smith.

Intervention and Access

Long known as “The Source” for information, area resources, agency referrals and advocacy, The Arc connects people with existing solutions and resources. In a state that ranks at the bottom in providing support services to people with intellectual and related developmental disabilities, support services are scarce. One of our resident experts will listen to your situation and work with you to find solutions. Email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call (214) 634-9810.