California’s regional centers are a network of 21 community-based non-profits, represented by the Association of Regional Center Agencies (ARCA). The regional centers coordinate services for, and advocate on behalf of, nearly 400,000 Californians with developmental disabilities.
The work of ARCA is directed by the guidance of the Board of Directors. Each regional center is represented by a member of their board of directors and the center’s executive director. The Board’s decision-making is also informed by various committees and discipline groups. The committees are primarily – though not exclusively – composed of Board members. The discipline groups are professional peer groups that meet to discuss best and promising practices and shared professional concerns. Concurrently, the Directors Group (regional center executive directors) and Board Delegates Group (regional centers’ board member delegates) work to keep their members informed of issues of particular relevance.
The mission of ARCA is to promote, support, and advance regional centers in achieving the intent and mandate of the Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Services Act in providing community-based services that enable individuals with developmental disabilities to achieve their full potential and highest level of self-sufficiency.
The Association functions as a leader and advocate in promoting the continuing entitlement of individuals with developmental disabilities to all services that enable full community inclusion. The Association also participates in the development of public legislative policy and serves as a focal point for communication, education, training, and prevention services.
