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Who We Are
A Leader in Disability Rights
The Arc of Oklahoma is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and the state chapter of The Arc of the United States, the largest national community-based organization advocating for and with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our mission is to ensure that every Oklahoman and family living with IDD has access to the information, advocacy, and support they need to live a full and inclusive life—at home, at school, at work, and in the community.
We serve all ages and support individuals with over 100 different diagnoses, including autism, Down syndrome, Fragile X syndrome, and other developmental disabilities. Our comprehensive programs focus on family support, grassroots advocacy, self-advocacy, grief support, and volunteer-led residential monitoring. Through these initiatives, we fight for equal opportunities, protect individual rights, and improve the quality of life for Oklahomans with IDD.
A Powerful Voice
As one of over 600 State and Local Chapters across the U.S., The Arc of Oklahoma is part of a nationwide movement dedicated to advancing the civil and human rights of people with IDD and their families.
We don’t just advocate for change—we drive it. Our work influences local, state, and national policies while providing critical services and direct support to families today. We are the only statewide nonprofit focused exclusively on the rights of people with IDD, making us a trusted resource for individuals, caregivers, and communities across all 77 Oklahoma counties.
Our expertise in navigating legal, governmental, and social systems makes us a powerful ally in defending against discrimination, abuse, special education challenges, guardianship concerns, disability benefits issues, and residential care standards. Unlike many organizations, our services are inclusive of all diagnoses, ages, and backgrounds. We are committed to adapting to individual needs, promoting legislative accountability, and ensuring that every person with IDD in Oklahoma has access to the resources they deserve.
Deeply Rooted History
Founded in 1952 by parents advocating for better services for their children with disabilities, The Arc of Oklahoma has been a driving force in disability rights for over 70 years. Our founding families fought tirelessly for education, inclusion, and services—values that continue to shape our work today.
Want to learn more about how far we’ve come? Explore Oklahoma’s disability rights history and watch the “Wagons to Waivers” documentary featuring firsthand accounts from Oklahomans impacted by developmental disabilities.