The Arc Of Nebraska Inc
About The Arc Of Nebraska Inc
The Arc of Nebraska has been doing this work since 1954, and its focus is clear, helping children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities participate fully in their communities. For families trying to make sense of IEPs, waiver questions, employment, housing, or voting access, it offers practical support that feels grounded in real life, not paperwork for paperwork’s sake. If you care about disability rights in Nebraska, this is the kind of organization that meets people where the problems actually are.
What stands out is how closely its advocacy stays tied to the parts of life people have to navigate every day, special education, voting, employment, and service access. It is also unusually practical, with trainings, resources, and referrals that give families and self-advocates something usable right away.
Programs
The concrete work this nonprofit runs. Each program may later become a fundable project.
Disability rights advocacy
Advocates for the rights and interests of people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities and their families through public awareness and education.
Special education hub and trainings
Provides training and resources on IEPs, 504 plans, manifestation determination reviews, behavioral supports, and advocacy skills for families, educators, and advocates.
Disability rights voting center
Offers nonpartisan voter information and accessible voting resources for Nebraskans with disabilities.
Resource navigation and referrals
Helps families understand the waiver system, access education, find employment, access housing, and connect with local resources.
Video training library
Maintains a library of disability advocacy and related trainings, including materials from The Arc of Nebraska and allied organizations.
Employment advocacy and employer engagement
Promotes inclusive hiring, disability employment trainings, and employer partnerships through the Disability Employer Pledge and related outreach.
End the Waiting List advocacy
Advocates around Nebraska's waiting list for disability services and the policies and funding that affect access to community-based supports.
About this work
In their own words — what they do, who it reaches, and what your dollars actually fund.
Mission
The Arc of Nebraska advocates for the rights and full participation of all children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Together with its network of members and affiliated chapters, it works to improve systems of support and services.
Who they serve
Children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Nebraska, along with their families and self-advocates.
How your donation helps
- Advocacy for disability rights and public policy change
- Public awareness and education about disability issues
- Training resources for families, educators, and advocates
- Community outreach and resource navigation
- Accessible voting and civic engagement education
- Special events and fundraising support
Our story
The Arc of Nebraska traces its history to 1954, and its work has long followed the changing shape of disability advocacy in the state. Over time, that has included community-based services, parent training, the People First movement, special education, quality review teams, and ongoing advocacy to end the waiting list for disability services.
Need help?
How someone in need can access The Arc Of Nebraska Inc’s services.
People seeking help can contact The Arc of Nebraska by email at info@arc-nebraska.org or by phone at (402) 475-4407. The organization says it can help with IEP issues, Medicaid waivers, and other disability-related concerns, connect families with resources in their area, and share information on self-advocacy.
Stories
The people behind the work.
In their words
“I work as a bakery clerk for Super Saver. I believe that people with disabilities are strong and faithful workers and are willing to work shifts that are suitable for their needs.” — Erin Phillips
“My son Teddy who has autism was nonverbal up until three years ago. We’ve had to piece together services for Teddy. ABA has helped him with his ability to speak and some behavioral issues.” — Angela Gleason
“I felt called into this work because I was a former employer who hired people with disabilities.” — Edison McDonald
Events
Senatorial Dinner
annualA formal banquet held every spring with leadership, advocacy, speakers, and recognition of advocates.
Crash Course on Disability Policy for Policymakers and Staff
one-timeA policy training session covering housing, Medicaid, employment, special education, Olmstead, provider rates, and related topics.
Reducing Exclusionary School Practices
one-timeA special education training event on academic and functional performance and related school practices.
Ways to help
Concrete needs and volunteer roles The Arc Of Nebraska Inc has shared.
Volunteer opportunities
- Help with fundraising events such as the Senatorial Dinner and Give to Lincoln Day
- Serve as an intern
- Assist with special events
- Support community outreach booths, presentations, and events
- Join the board of directors
- Join committees including Resource Development, Governmental Affairs and Public Relations, Education, and Membership
Recognition & press
Press & mentions
Partners & funders
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this nonprofit and how its work happens.
How can families get help with an IEP or other disability-related issue?
Families can reach out by email or phone, and The Arc of Nebraska says it can help connect them with local resources and advocacy support.
What kinds of topics does The Arc of Nebraska provide trainings on?
Its trainings cover special education, IEP communication, manifestation determination reviews, advocacy skills, disability policy, employment, and related disability issues.
Does The Arc of Nebraska offer voter information?
Yes. It has a Disability Rights Voting Center with nonpartisan voter information and accessible voting resources.
Does The Arc of Nebraska help with waiver and service-system questions?
Yes. It says it helps families understand the waiver system and can share information about Medicaid waivers and related disability services.
Can people share their own disability-related stories with The Arc of Nebraska?
Yes. It invites people to share their experiences, especially stories about workplace discrimination, to help shape advocacy.
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