In the heart of our region, one organization stands out as a beacon of hope, progress, and unwavering advocacy. The Arc of Southside (“The Arc”) is celebrating an impressive 70 years of transforming lives and championing the civil and human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Founded in 1954 by a dedicated group of families, with guidance from Rev. Richard Smith, The Arc began its journey alongside a burgeoning national movement advocating for better opportunities and rights for those often marginalized by society.
A Journey of Empowerment and Change
At the time of its formation, The Arc of Southside was among the first of its kind, joining a small but determined national effort to secure a brighter future for children with disabilities. In an era marked by significant educational and societal exclusion, these pioneering local families, driven by a shared sense of justice, rallied for their children’s rights. Their efforts laid the foundation for what would become a transformative force in the Danville-Pittsylvania County region, improving the lives of countless individuals with disabilities.
Over the years, The Arc’s commitment to the people it serves has driven it to continually evolve and innovate. The organization’s journey from early programs like Hatcher Center and White Oak School to advocating for community-based support mirrored a larger societal shift towards inclusion. Ahead of its time, The Arc set a precedent, anticipating and transcending governmental guidelines by prioritizing the voices and choices of the very people they assist. It was a deliberate embrace of the conviction that people with disabilities deserved much more: the right to pursue a range of opportunities and the empowerment that comes from being active, valued members within their communities.
Legacy of Advocacy
Advocacy has always been at the heart of The Arc of Southside’s mission, fueling transformative change through active engagement with policymakers. Over the decades, the organization has cultivated a proud legacy, from meeting with President Reagan in 1982 to participating in a congressional briefing in 2018 on the critical need to fund supported employment programs. Their advocacy extends to regular visits to Virginia’s General Assembly, where they educate legislators on issues impacting people with disabilities, and on a national scale, their influence has been felt through strategic meetings with senators in Washington, D.C.
In 2023, The Arc’s impact was further recognized when they stood alongside Governor Youngkin for the signing of two significant bills they had championed, reinforcing their pivotal role in shaping policy and ensuring the voices of those they serve are heard.
In Their Own Words
Today, The Arc of Southside continues to embody its mission: to promote and protect the human rights of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and to actively support their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes. Its modern services reflect its evolved approach, providing robust support across various areas, including home life, employment, and community engagement.
The true impact of The Arc is best understood through the experiences of those it supports and its staff. Tonya Martin, a participant of The Arc, expresses her gratitude by saying, “I just really enjoy living on my own and having people who support me.”
This sentiment is echoed by employees like Paula Booth, who finds joy in witnessing people thrive against odds, stating, “Nothing is more rewarding than seeing a person happy and thriving in their own life by working a job they love, living in their own home, and being fully included in their community, after being told for many years that they couldn’t do these things.”
Looking Forward
As The Arc of Southside looks to the future, it remains dedicated to promoting and protecting the human rights and inclusion of people with IDD. With its rich history of advocacy and forward-looking vision, The Arc aims to further its mission, ensuring that every person, regardless of ability, is valued and empowered.
An Open Invitation
In honor of The Arc of Southside’s 70th anniversary, 2 Witches Winery & Brewing is hosting a celebration to mark this incredible milestone. On Saturday, September 21, from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., 2 Witches invites the community to join in a celebration featuring the launch of ALLY Ale—a commemorative brew that honors The Arc’s motto of “A Life Like Yours.” The event will feature performances by local bands Papa Thump and Soulplay, a DJ spinning tunes, delicious food, and raffle prizes.
Let’s show up, not just for The Arc, but for each other. Let’s celebrate a shared commitment to doing good—right here in our community, and a future where everyone feels welcome and valued.