Dutchess Arc

Highly Engaged Employees

The Arc Greater Hudson Valley is a New York-based nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in living as valued and contributing members of their communities across three counties. Formed in January 2021 through the unification of The Arc Sullivan-Orange Counties and The Arc of Dutch... ess, the organization currently serves more than 2,000 individuals and operates under the leadership of Executive Director Ric Schwartz. The Arc Greater Hudson Valley represents a consolidation of decades of advocacy and direct support services, with roots tracing back to 1949 when Sullivan County AHRC was established as one of the first four chapters of what was then the Association for the Help of Retarded Children, founded by parents seeking educational and social alternatives for children with intellectual disabilities. The Orange County chapter was established in 1954, and The Arc of Dutchess was founded in 1971 by special education teachers and parents who recognized the need for expanded opportunities for graduating students with disabilities. Both the Sullivan-Orange and Dutchess organizations eventually became chapters of NYSARC, now known as The Arc New York, which represents the largest and strongest advocacy group for individuals with disabilities in the nation and coordinates 48 chapters across New York State. The Arc Greater Hudson Valley's mission reflects the organization's long-standing commitment to creating pathways to independence, employment, education, and community integration for people with unique abilities. By combining the resources, expertise, and community relationships of its predecessor organizations, The Arc Greater Hudson Valley leverages nearly a century of collective experience to deliver comprehensive services and advocacy across the Hudson Valley region, positioning itself as a trusted partner for families, individuals, and community stakeholders seeking support and advancement for people with developmental disabilities.Read More