The Arc

Nationally The Arc is the world’s largest community based organization of and for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Arc of Story County is a chapter of The Arc of Iowa. Within The Arc of the United States there are 850 state and local chapters across the nation. The Arc is devoted to promoting and improving supports and services for all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The Arc of Iowa

Since 1953, The Arc of Iowa has been a leader in advocacy and the development of services for people with intellectual and cognitive disabilities throughout Iowa. State Executive Director Casey Westhoff coordinates with the 25 Iowa Arc chapters and inspires growth of additional chapters across the state. The Arc of Iowa is a leader in advocacy through public policy, government affairs and serves as a resource point for information.

The Arc of Story County

Established in 1953 The Arc of Story County has been a leader in advocating on behalf of individuals with disabilities in Ames and Story County. Learn more about the development and growth of The Arc in our community on the History page.

Staff at The Arc of Story County

Jay Lettow, Executive Director

Hannah Swanbom, Program Coord. - Active LifeStyles 

               Volunteer Board of Directors

                         Patty Gibler - President                     

                     Susan Teas – Vice President, Arc of Iowa Board Member

                     Mary Christy – Past President

                     Lesley Hawkins - Secretary

                     Ric Nelson – Treasurer

                     John Timmons – Director, Arc if Iowa Board President

                     Koki Nakagawa – Director, Self-Advocate

                     Kim Lively – Director, Self-Advocate

                     Mariella VanderGaast – Director

                     Larry Dix – Director

                     Andrew Gomez – Director

                     Tara Box – Director

                     Jenni Sillman – Director

                     Rory Echer - Director

Annual Meeting July 14, 2009         

The Arc of Story County Annual meeting will be held July 14, 2009 in the conference room at The Arc's new office building (130 S. Sheldon, Ames) All board meetings are open to the public. If you would like to be added to the agenda please contact Jay Lettow or Patty Gibler. The following board members and positions are up for reelection at this annual meeting:

     Patty Gibeler - President 

     Susan Teas - Vice President

     Mary Christy - Past President

     Lesley Hawkins - Secretary

     Ric Nelson - Treasurer

     Kim Lively - Director

     Koki Nakawaga - Director