Arc Of New Jersey Inc

Systems advocacy. The arc of new jersey provides comprehensive, multi-faceted advocacy on a number of levels, including administrative, legislative, institutional and personal. The organization's governmental affairs department works primarily at the state level, working with the administration, the legislature and the stakeholder departments and divisions to promote a three-tiered mission 1) to protect the civil rights entitlements of citizens with intellectual and developmental disabilities, 2) to promote their full community integration, and 3) to enhance the overall welfare and opportunities of citizens and their families. Through its mainstreaming medical care program, the organization has developed a strong health care advocacy initiative that works closely with new jersey government officials and health care providers and institutions to protect, facilitate and advance full and equal access to quality medical, dental and mental health services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In addition to the mainstreaming medical care program, the planning for adult life program and family institute offer training to participants, families, and schools, on important issues relating to their lives during school and after graduation. The arc of new jersey family institute is dedicated to providing timely information, advocacy, support and training to family members of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Client advocacy: the organization's criminal justice advocacy program seeks to ensure fair and equal access to alternatives to incarceration and correctional habilitation programs for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities who have become involved in the criminal justice system. The program also offers specialized juvenile offender services. The self advocacy project assists individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities advocate on their behalf, including educating state administrators and legislators about issues of importance to them. The project conducts presentations to community organizations and establishes and maintains a strong network of local advocacy groups.