Frequently Asked Questions

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 feel free to click here to access our online contact form or feel free to give us a call at 785-232-0597.

What is TARC?

TARC is Shawnee County’s most experienced provider of support for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. TARC was formed by a small group of local families in 1954.

The families were all seeking to improve the lives of their children with intellectual disabilities. In the last sixty-three years, TARC has grown to serve over 2,500 individuals and families in the Topeka and Shawnee County area providing service, support and advocacy. Our programs and services include an infant-toddler program , adult and senior day services, case management, employment services, assistive technology and a self-determination program, the only of its kind in the state.

Is TARC an acronym?

No, TARC is not an acronym. TARC was founded in 1954 and is a affiliated National ARC Organization. We’ve long been called TARC and legally changed our name to TARC in 2011 to reflect our history but to acknowledge that we serve more than just one diagnosis.

What does TARC do?

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

What is TARC Industries?

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: full-service mailing program, in-house printing facility, secure, confidential and affordable document destruction services and sub-contracted work (production). For more information about TARC Industries please visit www.tarcindustries.com

How do I qualify for services at TARC?

To qualify for services through TARC’s tiny-k program (birth to three years of age) your child must be evaluated to qualify for services. To refer a family to the tiny-k program please contact Lori Eigenman, Referral/Intake Coordinator at 785.506.8621 or email her by clicking here.

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.

How is TARC funded?

TARC has multiple funding/income sources. These include Fees for services, Governmental Income, Contributions and grants, Fundraising events and Production income. Click here to view TARC’s 2017 Annual Report.

If I donate to TARC, where does the money go?

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.

Is my donation tax deductible?

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

When you make a tax-deductible contribution on our site, we will send an acknowledgement of your contribution that can be used for tax purposes.

Questions? Contact Laura Marple, Finance Director or Cathy Konrade, Assistant Finance Director at 785.232.0597

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

How can I get involved with TARC?

We love our volunteers at TARC! We were founded 65 years ago thanks to a group of creative and dedicated volunteers. We continue to rely on volunteers with a multitude or talents and keep our organization strong and successful!

Click here for a list of current volunteer opportunities.

What is Winter Wonderland?

Winter Wonderland is a 2 mile holiday light display that runs from the Wednesday before Thanksgiving until December 31. Winter Wonderland is open nightly from 6 to 10 pm and is a SUGGESTED donation of $10 per car or $20 per bus. Donations benefit TARC programming. For more information about the event and how to become a sponsor please visit www.winterwonderlandtopeka.com

How do you volunteer at Winter Wonderland?

Without volunteers, it would be nearly impossible to host our largest fundraiser, Winter Wonderland. Each year, we have hundreds of volunteers who help us at the gate each night at Winter Wonderland. Typically, we start our Winter Wonderland volunteer calendar early each year, if you’re interested in becoming involved with Winter Wonderland please email [email protected].

For more information about the event please visit www.winterwonderlandtopeka.com