Mission, Vision and Values
Our mission is to vigorously advocate for and enforce the legal rights of people with disabilities.
We envision an Arkansas where people with disabilities are equal members in their communities and can dictate the course of their own lives through self-determination.
DRA treats all people with dignity, respect, and compassion.
Who We Are
Disability Rights Arkansas (DRA) is the independent, private, nonprofit, nonpartisan Protection and Advocacy organization authorized by Federal and State law to protect and advocate for the civil and legal rights of people with disabilities in Arkansas.
What does DRA do?
We help people with disabilities. Sometimes our clients need legal advice or representation. Sometimes they need information, or referral to another agency for services. We provide information about voting rights, self-advocacy, and laws and policies that affect the lives of people with disabilities. We can intervene in cases of abuse or neglect. We monitor facilities to ensure that they are accessible, and that they are providing appropriate services.
Who does DRA advocate on behalf of?
DRA serves people with disabilities. A disability is a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities and may occur at any time in life.
Do I have to pay for DRA services?
No, all services through DRA are provided at no cost to our clients.
Where is DRA located?
The DRA offices are located at 400 West Capitol Avenue, Suite #1200, Little Rock, AR 72201. We serve people with disabilities throughout the entire state of Arkansas.
Is DRA a state agency?
No, DRA is not a state agency. DRA is a private, independent, nonpartisan 501(c)3 that is separate from state government.
Where does DRA get its funding?
DRA receives funding from 9 Federal program grants, a grant from the Arkansas Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, private grants/sponsorships, and individual donors.
How can I get DRA to help me?
Individuals who want help from DRA should call our toll-free hotline number at 800-482-1174 or complete the online “Request Help” form. Our intake advocate will ask you some questions about you and the problems you are experiencing. From there, the advocate may give you information, brief advice and self-advocacy assistance on how to resolve it.
Or in some cases, if your case falls within DRA’s current focus areas, your case may be referred to an individual DRA advocate or attorney for possible direct intervention or representation.
What is a Protection and Advocacy (P&A) Agency?
DRA is part of the Protection and Advocacy (P&A) network and is the P&A agency for Arkansas. Every state and U.S. territory has a P&A. Each one operates with grant funding from several federal agencies. Their purpose is to advocate for and protect the civil rights of persons with disabilities. DRA has the access authority to enter any facility in Arkansas that provides care or treatment to persons with disabilities. This enables us to carry out our rights protection and advocacy activities.