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ARC Broward is a private, not-for-profit organization providing supports and assistance primarily to children and adults with mental retardation, autism, Down's syndrome, cerebral palsy, and other developmental disabilities. Incorporated in 1957, ARC Broward provides a continuum of supports to over 1,000 children and adults with disabilities and employs over 450 healthcare, educational, and other professionals. The organization began by opening two classrooms for children with special needs on Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale, Florida under the direction of a group of concerned parents seeking services for their children at a time when there were no other options for them. Over the years the agency expanded its reach and today provides a full range of supports and services to adults and children. The agency has established itself as a leading advocate helping shape funding and policy decisions at the State, local and federal levels for quality services to individuals with developmental disabilities. The organization is outcome driven and its Employment and Community Services, Psychosocial and Rehabilitation programs are nationally accredited by CARF, the Rehabilitation Commission. The agency's preschool and early intervention services are nationally accredited by NAEYC, the National Association for the Education of Young Children. As a non-profit organization the agency relies on grants, individual and corporate contributions and revenue generated through a broad range of contracts. The organization is governed by a volunteer board of directors who, among other things, employs a Chief Executive Officer to oversee the fiscal, programmatic and legal integrity of the organization. A majority of the current Board members have served for more than 12 years and represent a cross section of community business and professional leaders. Many of them also have a relative with a developmental disability. Services are provided in multiple venues to accommodate the needs and desires of the individuals and families served. The agency stays abreast of best practices and trends in the field and prides itself on being a strategic, creative, forward thinking organization that is mindful of the importance of balancing its commitment to mission with the realities of business principles.