Who We Are
Our Story
MARC began as a grassroots organization in 1955 spearheaded by eight families desperate for help and support for their children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). At that time, families had little support or community services. Their children were not allowed to attend public schools, and group homes did not exist. Their only options were large, cold, impersonal institutions.
Eventually, our founding families successfully petitioned the Middletown Board of Education to admit children with I/DD. Since that time, MARC has grown to meet the needs of individuals and their families by providing a supportive environment where people with I/DD can dream, are empowered, and can thrive.
Today we are a multi-faceted organization serving hundreds of adults with disabilities in employment, community living, and day and recreation programs.
MARC Community Resources is an affiliated chapter of The Arc, the largest national organization devoted solely to promoting and protecting the human rights of people with I/DD and actively supporting their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes. MARC is an active participant on a statewide level with The Arc CT.
A meeting will be held Tuesday at 7:30pm at the home of Mrs. Burton Bolt, Higby Road to organize parents of retarted children. Interested persons may contact Mrs. Bolt.
September 27, 1955
“Little did I think that 60 years later I would still be alive to see all that has been accomplished by MARC since I was its first President in 1955.
I moved to Santa Barbara, California in 1962 but MARC has always been in my heart. I am now 87 but I’ve never forgotten how much help and support I received in personal and public ways from MARC members and the community at large.
I am writing to thank you for what has been done over the last 60 years by MARC for children with disabilities and their parents. I send you my best wishes for continued success in future years. God bless all of you.”
Catherine “Renee” Bolt