Core Values
People First
The Arc believes that all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are defined by their own strengths, abilities and inherent value, not by their disability.
Equity
The Arc in Hawaii believes that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are entitled to the respect, dignity, equality, safety, and security accorded to other members of society, and are equal before the law.
Community
The Arc in Hawaii believes that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities belong in the community and have fundamental moral, civil and constitutional rights to be fully included and actively participate in all aspects of society.
Self-determination
The Arc in Hawaii believes in self-determination and self-advocacy. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities, with appropriate resources and supports, can make decisions about their own lives and must be heard on issues that affect their well-being.
Diversity
The Arc in Hawaii believes that society in general and The Arc in Hawaii in particular benefit from the contributions of people with diverse personal characteristics (including but not limited to race, ethnicity, religion, age, geographic location, sexual orientation, gender and type of disability.
Guiding Principles
Participatory Democracy
The Arc in Hawaii acts to ensure that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their parents, siblings, family members and other concerned members of the public have meaningful opportunities to inform and guide the direction of the organization’s advocacy, including determining policy and positions on important issues. The Arc in Hawaii strives for diversity in its leadership, as well as in all facets of the work of the organization. Visionary Leadership The Arc in Hawaii leads by articulating a positive vision for the future of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and catalyzes public and private support in realization of that vision through carefully planned and well-executed goals, strategies and actions.
Public Interest
The Arc in Hawaii represents the public interest, supporting and acting with and on behalf of all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families regardless of the type of disability or membership in The Arc in Hawaii.
Collaboration
The Arc in Hawaii works with individuals, organizations and coalitions in a collaborative fashion. The Arc values and promotes effective partnerships between volunteer and staff leadership at all levels of the organization.
Transparency, Integrity and Excellence
The Arc in Hawaii conducts its business with integrity, accountability, and open, honest and timely communication. The Arc in Hawaii is committed to quality and excellence in all its does.
