Founded in 1953 by a handful of parents, The Arc of Cowlitz Valley today provides advocacy and direct support services to over 500 individuals throughout Cowlitz County. Its history is rich with achievement in helping start-up direct programs for children, youth and adults, many of which successfully incorporated separately such as Progress Center, Adult Development Center, and Cottonwood Lodge. 

The Arc of Clark County was established in 1936 and provides services to more than 2,000 individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities throughout Southwest Washington. It presently offers programs in supported living, payee representative, guardianship, early learning PRIDE school, Parent Coalition, Parent-to-Parent, People First, and various employment, recreational and social programs. 

In a joint statement issued by the two Chapter Board presidents, Heidi Schafer of Cowlitz Valley and Justin Myers of Clark County, said, “This partnership will strengthen The Arc’s ability to help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities achieve a lifetime of success throughout our entire region. The efficiencies and supports between the two organizations is an obvious and natural fit strategically, financially and programmatically.” 

“Today’s conditions demand nonprofits like The Arc to step up and find creative ways to work as partners to deliver quality advocacy and services as efficiently as possible,” Schafer said. “We are delighted to join with our Chapter to the south to expand our reach throughout the county and region.” 

“We are putting together a smarter, leaner organization,” Myers added. “We are positioning ourselves strategically for positive growth whatever the economic climate in Southwest Washington brings in the future.” 

The merger is expected to be completed by March of this year and the new name, The Arc of Southwest Washington takes effect.