PARCA

Parca is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that serves 1,500 people with developmental disabilities and their families. The disabilities include Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, epilepsy and other neurological disorders. Founded in 1952, Parca’s mission is to enrich the lives of people with developmental disabilities and their families in the Bay Area from the Silicon Valley to Marin to the East Bay.

Parca offers programs to help adults live independently in their community. They also offer recreational activities for children. There are available for clients and their families at all stages in their lives. Family Support Services is a resource for parents, offering support and information from the moment they learn they are going to have a child with disabilities.

Children’s Services includes the REACH integrated child-care program for children with and without developmental disabilities. It also includes the Raji House weekend respite care program for children and teens with developmental disabilities. These programs use positive learning and recreational activities to emphasize the similarities between people rather than the differences. All Parca children’s programs are licensed by the Department of Social Services.

Adult Services provide training and support services to assist clients in mastering self-reliance and independence to their highest personal levels. Parca’s philosophy is that all people have the same value and the same human rights. They know that people with developmental disabilities also have the right to live and receive services in the home community of their choice. They should then have access to everything society has to offer just as any other member would. They also believe everyone has the right to participate o the best of their ability in all decisions that impact their daily lives.

Parca is committed to providing opportunities for people of all ages with developmental disabilities. These opportunities will allow them to experience choice, control and individuality in every aspect of their lives. Parca is supported by memberships, donations, grants, Golden Gate Regional Center, San Andreas Regional Center, Regional Center of the East Bay, state and federal contracts, and regular fundraising events.