In 1966, a group of parents of children with disabilities such as mental retardation, Down syndrome, autism and cerebral palsy decided to start a local chapter of the national advocacy organization, The Arc. Parents initially met in each other’s homes in Belvidere for mutual support, to promote the welfare of people with developmental disabilities and to cooperate with public and private agencies with similar purposes. Synagogues, churches, and social workers in the area soon joined the local grassroots movement to advocate for people with developmental disabilities. These gatherings evolved into a monthly meeting at the Centennial Methodist Church in Rockford. In 1972, The Arc of Winnebago, Boone and Ogle Counties was incorporated.