Celebrating Over 70 Years of Service!
Our mission has been simple but powerful for over seven decades: To empower individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families to have quality lives through information, support, and opportunity. Our journey has been shaped by the incredible individuals we serve, the dedicated employees who make a difference daily, and the generous community that has stood beside us.
Today in Ouachita Parish, those with intellectual and other developmental disabilities are living LARGE, enjoying the fullness of their natural communities, having supports that bring joy and give meaning to their lives. Families have help in addressing the unique needs of their members. Communities are growing in acceptance and inclusion – and expectation! This accomplishment, rooted in the self-help efforts of three families of children with developmental disabilities meeting in the West Monroe family home of Ike and Shirley Hamilton in 1954, shows that a few people, believing in and supporting the goodness of their communities, can change the world around them for the better!
OUR JOURNEY CONTINUES. JOIN US!
As we look to the future, we invite new friends and supporters to Join Our Journey. Whether through volunteering, advocacy, or financial contributions, you can help us continue building a world where everyone is valued, included, and empowered.
Discover more about ARCO and the impactful services we provide by exploring our website. Stay connected by signing up for our quarterly e-newsletter—a heartfelt celebration of our community and the incredible individuals with intellectual disabilities who inspire us every day.
ARCO, A Community Resource, is The Arc of Ouachita
+ HOURS OF SERVICE
+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
+ STAFF MEMBERS
+ PARISHES SERVED
ARCO SPOTLIGHT
ARCO Executive Director Roma Kidd Announces Retirement
The ARCO Board of Directors has announced the upcoming retirement of long-time Executive Director Roma Kidd, who has served 44 of ARCO’s 71 years of operation. During her tenure, Kidd led significant improvements in service delivery, advocacy, and resource development, leaving a lasting impact on individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
“To have had the opportunity to help develop community-based supports for families and individuals has been a rewarding honor,” said Kidd. “I’m so thankful to the people of Ouachita Parish and the many who have served on ARCO’s Board of Directors who made our success possible.”
A native of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Kidd earned degrees in Psychology and Special Education from the University of Southern Mississippi. She began her career as Mississippi’s first early interventionist before joining ARCO in 1981 as Residential Services Manager. Soon after, she was appointed Executive Director—a role she has held ever since.
Kidd’s leadership helped transform lives at a time when individuals with developmental disabilities were often institutionalized. “My greatest joy has been seeing people with developmental disabilities become more accomplished, accepted, and independent,” she said.
“Roma’s passion and dedication have guided ARCO’s strategic growth and strengthened its reputation statewide,” said Terry Duke, Chairman of the ARCO Board. “Her leadership has resulted in more fulfilling lives for those we serve.”
Former Board Chair Steve Murray added, “Roma has been a giver beyond measure—a leader, advocate, and dear friend. Her legacy will continue to inspire.”
The Board has begun the search for Kidd’s successor and plans to complete the process by year’s end. Kidd will assist with the leadership transition.
Resumes may be submitted to ARCO Executive Director Search, P.O. Box 14341, Monroe, LA, or email Terry M. Duke at tmduke@att.net. Please include a cover letter, and 3 letters of reference. (Click for More Details)
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