The Arc - Jefferson Clear Creek

“Membership in the organization shall be open to all interested persons. Persons may express interest by either making an annual financial contribution no later than 30 days prior to the arc's annual meeting, or by expressing interest in membership at any time during or after the advocacy process. Membership obtained through the advocacy process has no expiration date. Membership in the arc is individual in nature.”

“Membership must approve all changes to articles of incorporation and bylaws”

“The arc's executive director and accountant participate in the initial review of the 990. Following that, the finance committee reviews and approves the 990 prior to it being finalized. The board of directors receives a copy of the 990 prior to it being filed.”

“All board members fill out a "conflict of interest" form and those are reviewed on an annual basis. In addition, as each board meeting begins, the board president asks if anyone has a conflict of interest based on the meeting agenda. All disclosed conflicts are entered into the minutes of the meeting and individuals disclosing conflicts of interest recuse themselves from voting on those specific agenda items.”

“During the 2023-24 fiscal year, an in-depth analysis of all employee compensation was conducted. Data was gathered from salary surveys from the colorado nonprofit association, the employers council, and glassdoor. The board then reviewed and approved the new salaries as part of the budget approval process.”

“Governing and financial documents are available upon request. In addition, the audited financial statements and the annual form 990 are available on the organization's website.”

“Empowering families: family members are often a person's lifelong advocate and typically the people who know the individual best. This program develops and strengthens advocacy skills in family members as they support the needs and desires of the individual with idd whom they love. The arc teaches people how to ensure that an individual can lead a full, self- directed life with the right support. Supporting self-advocacy: the most important voice in any conversation about someone's life is that of the individual with disabilities themselves. Through this program, the arc builds advocacy skills and confidence in people with i/dd of all ages and encourages them to speak for themselves whenever possible. Expanding community access: the systems that support individuals with idd are critical to their lives. This program ensures that the arc represents the needs of our community locally, at the state level, and at the federal level, and helps to create positive systems change that truly makes lives better. Changing community perceptions: one of the biggest obstacles people with idd encounter is the public's perception of them. Through this program, we work to dispel myths, correct misconceptions, change attitudes, and help people see individuals' abilities and worth. As a result, we will create a welcoming community where everyone is valued and respected. Through recent surveys, focus groups and direct feedback, the arc is both listening and responding to our community's needs. Advocacy has been re- organized to focus on the specific needs of three age groups: children/families, teens/young adults, and adults - knowing that each stage of life comes with its own desires and challenges. We're engaged both proactively and responsively to support our community.”