The ARC of Sedgwick County began in 1953 when parents concerned about services and future opportunities for their children formed The Wichita Association for Retarded Children. This was the first organization in this country to promote the general welfare of all persons with mental retardation, to foster the development of programs on their behalf and to increase the public's awareness and acceptance. This group has a legacy of Community Programs they started and support - KETCH - Lilac Lane Preschool - Evening Respite - Connection Point - TMH Graduation - Shooting Stars Self-Avocates - Y.E.S.S. Program - The Epilepsy Resource Connection - Awareness through the Arts - Burning Sage Ranch - National Mini-Tours - ARC Kansas Tennis Tour - Discovery Days - The Young Adult Club - In-Service Training for Epilepsy Support Group - Down Syndrome Parents - Sedgwich County Sheriff Dept - and City of Wichita Police Dept.