MARCH IS MENTAL RETARDATION AWARENESS MONTH

Mercer County/March, 2006 The Arc Mercer, Inc., an affiliated chapter of the nation’s largest volunteer-based organization devoted to life long issues of mental retardation and developmental disabilities, marks National Mental Retardation Awareness Month in March. The Arc Mercer, Inc. joins chapters around the country to bring attention to issues concerning people with mental retardation or developmental disabilities and their families for the 27th consecutive year.

“National Mental Retardation Awareness Month is an opportunity for our community to find out more about mental retardation and related developmental disabilities. It is also a great chance to learn more about the importance of full inclusion in community life and how diversity is essential to our culture and to our neighborhoods,” said Executive Director Dennis Micai. Board President Steven Cook added, “ The Arc takes this opportunity to express our thanks to those in Mercer County who have been our strong supporters, and to invite others to learn more about us and our mission to Empower Lives Through Opportunity during March and every month of the year. We encourage the public to learn more about the cognitive disabilities community and help to put an end to misconceptions.”

The Arc Mercer, Inc. offers the following services: Infant/Toddler program; School age children services; Respite for parents and caregivers; Training and Employment opportunities; Residential living services; Adult Basic Skills program; Community Resource program and Recreation programs.

The Arc Mercer, Inc. was founded 56 years ago by twelve parents of retarded children who gathered to share their concerns about caring for, educating and mainstreaming their children. Today, The Arc Mercer provides programs and services to more than 1,000 people with mental retardation or developmental disabilities; serves as a support network and resource for parents and caregivers; and advocates for people in Mercer County who have a developmental disability.

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