The Arc of Moore County will kick off a monthlong membership drive on Nov. 1, it was announced by Susan Holmes, public relations and development coordinator for The Arc.

Serving Moore and surrounding counties in the Sandhills, The Arc of Moore County is a local chapter of The Arc of the United States, the largest organization in the world dedicated to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

The Arc of Moore County was established in 1960 by parents who needed and desired services and supports for their children with developmental disabilities.

From their early efforts came the first exceptional education program in the public schools, the first developmental day preschool, the first adult vocational program, and an organization of people committed to improving the lives of people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities.

Today, The Arc provides a variety of services and supports to individuals and families. As an advocacy organization, The Arc works at the local, state and national level to encourage new and better opportunities for inclusive living, working and leisure for people with disabilities, while supporting self-advocates in achieving independence and dignity.

As a grassroots, member-driven organization, The Arc derives a large share of volunteer support from its members, who also provide the collective strength which makes it possible for The Arc to accomplish its goals.

As a private, nonprofit organization, funding for The Arc's services and supports come from many sources: United Way, Sandhills Center for Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services, and the federal Medicaid program.

However, to sustain and grow the ability to serve individuals and their families, The Arc needs members that support the mission and can help with advocacy efforts. Various levels of membership are available.

For more information, contact Susan Holmes at (910) 692-8272 (arcmooresh@ embarqmail.com) or visit the website at www.thearc ofmoore.org.