The ARC Honors Representative Frelinhuysen With Its Public Policy Award

ARC of the United States
Thursday, 14 February 2002

The Arc of the United States has awarded its 2002 John Chafee Leadership in Public Policy Award to Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen (R-NJ) for his longstanding and outstanding advocacy in pursuing public policies that help people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities live fuller lives in their communities. The award, named for the late Sen. John Chafee of Rhode Island and intended to honor his work on behalf of people with mental retardation, is presented annually at the Governmental Affairs/Policy Seminar held by The Arc of the United States, AAMR, and AUCD.

The Arc of the United States is the nation's largest volunteer-based organization devoted solely to issues concerning people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities and their families.

"The Arc is pleased to recognize Representative Frelinghuysen for his long record of service to people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities and their families," said President of The Arc Karen Staley. "His work to ensure the availability of decent, safe, and affordable housing for our constituents is one of the major keys to the effective implementation of the landmark Supreme Court Olmstead decision. Disability housing programs funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) have expanded and become better focused on the housing needs of our constituency because of his heroic efforts. Representative Frelinghuysen's involvement with The Arc stretches back to his relationship with one of our founders, the late Elizabeth Boggs. We look forward to many more years of his support and leadership."

More information on the annual Governmental Affairs/Public Policy Seminar held by The Arc, AAMR, and AUCD or on housing issues for people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities can be found on The Arc's web site at www.thearc.org.

For more information, or to contact ARC of the United States, see their website at: www.thearc.org