The Arc of the Gulf Coast supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their quest for self-determination ensuring that they have meaningful lives in the communities where they live, learn, work, play and worship - responding to their needs, one person at a time.Since 1969, The Arc of the Gulf Coast has supported individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) as they navigate the difficult and confusing paths to education, employment and independent living. We provide advocacy in educational and occupational settings and advise families with decisions regarding education, transition, guardianship and other important issues. We have a vast network of resources to help people obtain the information and contacts they need to ensure meaningful lives in their communities.The waiting lists for services for people with IDD are often long, and the process is daunting. Since 1969, The Arc of the Gulf Coast has provided limited financial assistance to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to in crises to help bridge financial gaps.The Arc also supports efforts to improve legislation and policies at state and local levels by supporting self-advocates and working with law-makers to change the legislative landscape. We also supports self-advocates as they train the disability community on self-advocacy, self-determination, person-directed planning, and organizational development.