At a time when institutionalization was the common medical recommendation for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, The Arc Oregon was founded by parents who wanted a better life for their children with I/DD. 

They led the fight for community inclusion, education, and civil rights, eventually leading to the closing of Oregon’s institutions and developing the current brokerage system of supports and services.

More than 65 years later we still have work to do. Through our collaborative work with our local chapters, community partners, and grassroots advocates like you, we know we can succeed.