![Arc_Oklahoma_Color_Rev_JPG[568]_edited_e](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/9f7831_80a176e02355482494db0da6392ed75d~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_245,h_142,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/Arc_Oklahoma_Color_Rev_JPG%5B568%5D_edited_e.jpg)
​
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, 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 more than 600 State and Local Chapters across the country, The Arc of Oklahoma is part of a national movement committed to advancing the civil and human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families.
​
We don’t just advocate for change—we lead it. From shaping local, state, and federal policy to delivering direct services and support, our work creates real impact for Oklahomans every day. As the only statewide nonprofit solely focused on the rights of people with IDD, we are a trusted ally to individuals, caregivers, and communities in all 77 Oklahoma counties.
​
With deep expertise in navigating complex governmental and social systems, we stand strong against discrimination, abuse, educational barriers, guardianship issues, gaps in disability benefits, and shortcomings in residential care. Unlike many organizations, our services are inclusive of all diagnoses, ages, and backgrounds. We meet people where they are—adapting to unique needs, holding systems accountable, and working to ensure that every person with IDD in Oklahoma has access to the dignity, opportunity, and support 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.