The Arc of San Diego is a private nonprofit organization, and is one of the largest human-service agencies in the region. Founded in 1951 and headquartered in San Diego, Calif., the organization develops programs for children and adults with developmental disabilities. The programs promote social, economic and personal independence. Developmental disability is defined by the state as a diagnosis originating before age 18, of one or more of conditions, such as mental retardation, epilepsy, cerebral palsy, and autism. The term developmental disability describes a number of conditions that permanently restrict an individual's development. Arc is approved by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities that receives funds from the state and federal government, corporate and foundation grants, individual donors, and the United Way.