The Disability Rights Center of Arkansas announced Tuesday that it will change its name to Disability Rights Arkansas.
The name change, which takes effect today, was made to "better reflect the priorities and mission for the agency as it continues to advocate on behalf of all Arkansans with disabilities," according to a news release. The nonprofit will also be changing its website address to www.DisabilityRightsAR.org.
The Little Rock-based nonprofit organization, which last changed its name in 2010, is federally funded and employs a staff of about 20 people who advocate for people with developmental disabilities, mental illness, traumatic brain injuries and other special needs. The group also has power under federal law to enter and investigate any facilities that house people with disabilities to ensure that they are being treated with dignity and respect.
Over the past few months, the group has uncovered substandard conditions for students with special-education needs at the Hazen School District and is investigating an increase in assaults at the state's largest youth lockup.
The lockup, the Arkansas Juvenile Assessment and Treatment Center near Alexander, houses up to 100 youths, many of whom need special education or have mental health conditions that require medication and intensive counseling and treatment.
Metro on 10/01/2014