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Who We Are

Enhancing Lives, Strengthening Independence

Since 1954, TARC has been committed to advocating for individuals with disabilities, by providing support, services, and opportunities for people of all ages. Through our wide range of programs, we aim to promote independence, enrich lives, and foster inclusion within the community.

Discover how we make a difference every day.

Shaping the future of inclusion and empowerment for all.

TARC is Shawnee County’s most experienced provider of support for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

VISION

All people, including those with intellectual, developmental and related disabilities experience life to their potential.

MISSION

TARC enhances the lives of people affected by intellectual, developmental and related disabilities through commitment to excellence in service, support and advocacy.

Who we are
& what we do.

Below is a list of questions we are frequently asked and our answers. If you have other questions about TARC or would like more information, click here to access our online contact form or give us a call at 785-232-0597.

TARC is Shawnee County’s most experienced provider of support for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. TARC was formed in 1954 by a small group of local families who were all seeking to improve the lives of their children with intellectual disabilities. TARC has grown to serve over 2,500 individuals and families in the Topeka and Shawnee County area.

No, TARC is not an acronym. TARC was founded in 1954 and is affiliated with the National ARC Organization. We’ve long been called TARC and legally changed our name to TARC, Inc in 2011 to reflect our history but also to acknowledge that we serve people who have a variety of diagnosies.

TARC provides services and support to children, families, and adults with developmental, intellectual, and related disabilities in Topeka and Shawnee County. Our services are provided through various programs.

Click here to learn more about our programs.

TARC Industries is a non-profit production facility that provides employment opportunities and work-related experiences for persons with developmental disabilities. TARC Industries offers four lines of business that provide a variety of work skill training for those we serve. The lines of business include a full-service mailing program; in-house printing facility; secure, confidential, and affordable document destruction services; and sub-contracted production work. For more information about TARC Industries please visit www.tarcindustries.com

Children, birth to three years of age, must be evaluated to qualify for services. Please contact TARC and ask for the Children’s Services Referral/Intake Coordinator at 785-232-0597 or by emailing info@tarcinc.org.

Not sure if you qualify for the I/DD Waiver? Please contact the Shawnee County CDDO and click here to learn more about eligibility requirements.

TARC has multiple funding sources. These include Medicaid, governmental income, grants, contributions, fundraising events and production income..

Donations to TARC help fill our funding gaps to provide services. If you would like your donation to benefit a specific program or campaign, please let us know when you donate by writing the program on the memo line of a check or telling us in a note, letter or with your online donation.

Click here for donation options.

TARC, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. Contributions to TARC, Inc. are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Donors should consult with their tax advisers regarding their gifts and deductions.

When you make a tax-deductible contribution on our site or online, we will send an acknowledgment of your contribution that can be used for tax purposes. TARC, Inc.’s tax identification number is 48-6086732.

Questions? Contact the Finance Director at 785-232-0597.

More information can be found at the IRS web site on Substantiating Charitable Contributions for tax considerations.

We love our volunteers at TARC! We were founded in 1954 thanks to a group of creative and dedicated volunteers. We continue to rely on volunteers with a multitude of talents to keep our organization strong and successful! If you’d like to volunteer, please email development@tarcinc.org.

Winter Wonderland, a drive-thru holiday light display, is the largest fundraiser for TARC. Donations from the event directly support TARC programs and services.

For more information about the event, including volunteer and sponsorship opportunities, please visit winterwonderlandtopeka.com.

Your Support Makes a Difference

.Consider making a donation today to help TARC continue providing life-changing services.

TARC, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. Contributions to TARC, Inc. are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Donors should consult with their tax advisers regarding their gifts and deductions.

When you make a tax-deductible contribution on our site or online, we will send an acknowledgment of your contribution that can be used for tax purposes. TARC, Inc.’s tax identification number is 48-6086732.

Questions? Contact the Finance Director at 785-232-0597.

More information can be found at the IRS web site on Substantiating Charitable Contributions for tax considerations.