The Arc is a private, nonprofit organization providing service and support to people with cognitive, intellectual and other developmental disabilities, and to their families. It also receives contributions from United Way.

An article about the donation appeared in The Pilot Oct. 19. While we are grateful for media exposure, I must clarify a couple of points.

First, The Arc of Moore County is not "ARC" nor the "Association of Retarded Citizens." The Arc changed its name in 1995 to reflect a more person-centered philosophy.

We advocate for and provide support to people who have certain disabilities, and we educate the community about "people-first language." It is not acceptable to refer to a "disabled person" or "retarded person." More respectful language would be "person with a disability," or "person with autism," etc.

This may seem only semantics, but language reflects attitudes we hold about people with disabilities. In fact, the name change of The Arc came about in the early '90s because self-advocates (those with disabilities) told us they were tired of being labeled and felt insulted.

Words like "retarded" carry double meanings and are often used derogatorily.

As acceptable terminology evolves, The Arc will respond to voices of constituents. Our mission contains the phrase "people with cognitive, intellectual and developmental disabilities," referring only to a person's disability when necessary or relevant (to access services and funding).

Also, Mack Verhyden was incorrectly identified as a member of The Arc's board of directors. He is a long-time supporter of the Bargain Box and was instrumental in bringing The Arc to light for the Bargain Box board.

The Arc of Moore County thanks Dorothy Evans and Bargain Box II for a generous donation received this past summer.

Wendy Russell

Executive Director

The Arc of Moore County