New Name, Same Great Cause

TARC is proud to announce we have become The Arc of Oklahoma, a 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 (I/DD.) The Arc and its network of affiliates are dedicated to serving them and their families, across diagnoses, including Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy and other intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“Our new brand identity as The Arc of Oklahoma represents a new day for our nonprofit organization that has served Oklahomans with I/DD since 1952,” said The Arc of Oklahoma Executive Director Lisa Turner. “The new logo connects us with the work of a strong and energetic national organization and is a bright reminder that we provide opportunity for hope, growth and change for Oklahomans with I/DD and their families.”

As the state chapter, The Arc of Oklahoma has taken on The Arc’s national brand as its new face for the organization. The dynamic logo unites affiliated chapters under the banner “Achieve With Us,” a call to move forward and take the road leading to progress, inclusion and respect. The logo design reflects the energy and determination of The Arc to support and embrace people with I/DD and their families.

“It is exciting to introduce the new face of our organization to the community,” said The Arc of Oklahoma Board President Eric Newendorp. “The Arc of Oklahoma is a very important lifeline to many families with I/DD, including my own. This new identity will let everyone know that we are moving forward and making a difference every day for Oklahomans with I/DD.”

The Arc of Oklahoma joins a network of more than 600 state and local chapters across the country working tirelessly to uphold a vision that every individual and family living with I/DD has access to the information, advocacy, and skills they need to support their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.

The Arc of Oklahoma’s services will remain the same with an added emphasis on advocacy and public policy, as Oklahoma’s only statewide advocacy organization dedicated to serving individuals with I/DD. Programs also include family support, self-advocacy, grief support, residential advocacy.

The Arc of the United States was founded in 1950 by parents who believed their children with I/DD deserved more – to be included in their communities and to pursue fulfillment and happiness just like everyone else. Over its 60 year history, The Arc has continued to grow and evolve along with the changing needs and issues people with disabilities and their families face. The organization has played a pivotal role in changing the public perception of disability and has been on the frontlines advocating for legislation to improve the lives of people with I/DD in health care, education, employment, housing and more.