Ollie Webb Center, Inc. is the organization that emerged from the merger of The Arc of Omaha and Career Solutions, Inc.in July, 2005. It remains devoted to supporting people with disabilities and their families throughout their lives. Ollie Webb Center, Inc. is also a resource for current information on disabilities and disability law. The staff monitors state, local and federal legislation affecting people with disabilities. Training sessions are available to professionals and students on disability related topics. Speakers are available to those wishing to learn more about Ollie Webb Center, Inc. and the people we serve. It has also expanded its services to include an educational and independent living component, with the aid of staff that bring a breadth of professional and personal experiences to the programs.

History of The Arc of Omaha

Since the 1950s, The Arc of Omaha, (previously known as GOARC – the Greater Omaha Association for Retarded Citizens and The Ollie Webb Center), has been devoted to improving the lives of people with developmental disabilities. “GOARC” was originally formed by parents and interested professionals to address the problems of overcrowding and inhumane practices in institutions, and the lack of public education for people with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities.

“GOARC” started educational, residential and vocational programs in the community. Those programs demonstrated the previously untapped abilities of people with developmental disabilities and vastly improved their quality of life. Ultimately, laws were changed to entitle children, regardless of their disabilities, a public education. Various state and local organizations now provide for the basic needs of citizens with developmental disabilities. The Arc of Omaha offers services that are not provided by the public sector and pioneers new programs that improve and enrich the lives of the people it serves.

History of Career Solutions, Inc.

Career Solutions, Inc. began as a grass-roots, parent organized and administered agency in April, 1993 to provide supported employment services to individuals with disabilities. While our primary customers have been individuals with developmental disabilities, services are also provided to individuals who experience other forms of disabilities.