WHO — The Arc of Washington County is part of a grassroots national, volunteer, non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities.

HOW — are we funded? — Fundraisers, Grants, Membership Dues, Private and Public Donations, United Way, Program Fees, and Direct Mail Appeals and Rental Income.

WHAT — are the current programs and services that are offered by The Arc of Washington County?
Advocacy
Information and Referral
Welcome to My World — is an interactive disability awareness program offered free of charge to schools and community service groups.
GAPS — Guardianship, Advocacy and Planning Services is a service for individuals who need legal guardianship.
ARO — Adult Recreational Opportunities is a licensed Alternative to Employment (ATE) program for adults 21 and older. It provides social, recreational and leisure opportunities including a variety of community activities.
HERE — Helping Everyone Receive Equality (for adults 18 and older) educates and encourages adults to become active members of their community through volunteer services.
CAP — Community Activity Program is licensed for individuals 18 and older to participate in community activities, both social and educational.
ASC — After School Center is a licensed childcare center for children 5 through 17-years-old.
KSP — Kids Summer Program is a day camp for children 5 through 21-years-old, and offers fun-filled weeks of arts and crafts.

“How fortunate for our family that The Arc of Washington Countyisn’t afraid to connect with individuals who have disabilities. Jason not only enjoys his community outings, his craft activities, and his interaction with the staff at The Arc, but his personality has flourished.”

The Voice of One Grateful Mom,
Mary Bennett

Dorianne Reinhardt Paul, parent of a daughter with a developmental disability.

The Arc has an extensive history of improving the lives of children and adults with mental retardation and their families. It all started in 1950 with the first convention of the “National Association of Parents and Friends of Mentally Retarded Children”. In 1952 the organization became the National Association for Retarded Children and began publishing a newsletter. From there it has grown to include many state and local chapters, including The Arc of Washington County.

The Arc of Washington County was founded in 1953 by a group of parents who decided that even though the local school district disagreed with them, their children needed an education. And so with the help of three acres of donated land, buildings provided by the Beaverton Kiwanis Club, and many dedicated volunteers, The Arc of Washington County began its journey.

The Arc of Washington County is an affiliated chapter The Arc of Oregon and The Arc of the United States.