September 1950
The first national convention of the National Association of Parents and Friends is held in Minneapolis, MN.
September 1951
The national convention adopted an amendment to change its name to NARC. As the NJ Parents Group was concerned that the name was not in keeping with the parent-based nature of the organization, it wasn't until April 1953 that they changed the name of the NJ Chapter to NJARC.
October 1957
Theodore Lucas, 33 of Asbury Park, becomes the first Executive Director of NJARC, and an office is established in the Columbus Building at 524 1/2 Hamilton Ave, Trenton. This action was deemed necessary as the State Council grew to realize that volunteers alone could no longer support the growing chapters and ongoing statewide advocacy.
December 1957
The annual statewide fundraising campaign is declared "the most successful ever" with more than $200,000 raised. That would equal $1.57 million in today's dollars.
