The Arc of Southeast Los Angeles County is an organization that serves over 400 individuals with developmental disabilities in 26 cities in the Los Angeles area including South Gate, Downey, Lynwood, Bellflower, and Paramount. It is devoted to promoting and improving services for people with mental retardation and their families.

The Award was presented at the Arc Board Installation and Awards Dinner. Kevin MacDonald, Executive Director of Arc of Southeast Los Angeles County stated, "Assemblymember De La Torres' efforts both personally and legislatively in support of people with developmental disabilities merit this award." He has visited the individuals at Arc many times over the years and truly takes an interest in their well being".

"The Arc has been a champion for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families for over 50 years. I am honored to receive this award" stated De La Torre. "We need to continue advocating for education, research, and services for people with developmental disabilities."

As Chair of the Budget Subcommittee on Health and Human Services, De La Torre strongly advocated for budget funding for a cost-of-living increase for providers of services to the developmentally disabled. Such programs have experienced a rate freeze since 2003. A 3 percent increase was included in this year’s budget, the first increase in many years.