Through strong advocacy programs at the local and national level, The Arc continues to:
• Monitor progress in the area of inclusion (education, employment, community living and recreation)
• Make people aware of the needs, rights and abilities of people with intellectual disabilities
• Encourage progressive legislation
• Develop and promote effective programs and services
• Promote and apply research to enhance independence
• Educate the public on precautions that can be taken to prevent intellectual disabilities, including fetal alcohol syndrome and alcohol-related birth defects

On the national level, The Arc has been instrumental in:
• Increasing federal support for intellectual disabilities services and research
• Gaining Social Security coverage for adults disabled in childhood
• Securing the right to public education for all children
• Passage of the "Baby Doe" amendments to the Child Abuse Act
• Enactment of The Fair Housing Act amendments which prohibit housing discrimination based on disability

The Arc in Hawaii's advocacy programs include:
Systems Advocacy
Individual Advocacy
Legislative Intern Program
State Capitol Report
Self-Advocacy Clubs
Law Enforcement Training
21st Century Distinguished Service Award