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Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, August 25th 2025 at 8:34 GMT by Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati
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Arc on the Go: Tulsa’s New Mobile Outreach Initiative Brings Services Directly to Residents

Local12’s community page has just unveiled the launch of “Arc on the Go,” a groundbreaking mobile outreach program that promises to bring vital resources—ranging from health and wellness support to educational and employment assistance—to neighborhoods that have long been underserved by traditional service models. The initiative is spearheaded by the Arc of the Southwest, a nonprofit that has served people with developmental and intellectual disabilities in the Tulsa area for decades, and it is the first time the organization has taken its services out of the building and onto the streets.

What is Arc on the Go?

The Arc on the Go project was designed as a “community‑first” response to the increasing demand for accessible support in Tulsa’s urban and rural communities. According to the Arc’s own press release (linked in the article), the program will deploy a fleet of specially‑fitted vehicles equipped with counseling rooms, a small library of adaptive tools and devices, and a fully staffed team of social workers, occupational therapists, and educators. Each vehicle will be on a rotating schedule, stopping at community centers, schools, and even local parks to host short workshops and drop‑in counseling sessions.

At its core, Arc on the Go aims to lower the barrier to entry for individuals and families who might otherwise struggle to travel to Arc’s main offices. “We’re bringing our services to where people live and work,” explains Maria Alvarez, Director of Community Services at the Arc. “By meeting them where they are, we hope to increase participation and build stronger, more resilient communities.”

Partnerships that Power the Initiative

The Arc on the Go is not a solo endeavor. The article details several key partnerships that will sustain the program:

Tulsa Public Schools – By collaborating with the Tulsa School District, the Arc will offer on‑site mental‑health counseling and academic support for students with developmental needs. This partnership also includes a joint grant to fund the purchase of the mobile units.
Tulsa Department of Social Services – The department will provide data on community needs and will coordinate with the Arc to ensure that the mobile units serve populations with the highest demand for services.
Tulsa County Library – The library’s partnership brings a mobile “learning hub” that offers digital literacy workshops, especially for seniors and adults who may not have reliable internet access at home.
Local Employers – A coalition of Tulsa‑based companies, including some of the region’s top employers, will help facilitate job placement and vocational training workshops for adults who are transitioning into the workforce.

These collaborations are underscored by a city resolution passed by Tulsa City Council, which recognizes Arc on the Go as a key strategy in the city’s long‑term equity plan.

Early Success Stories

During its first month on the road, Arc on the Go has already made an impact. The article cites three heart‑warming stories that illustrate the program’s reach:

Samantha “Sam” Patel, a 34‑year‑old mother of two with a mild cognitive impairment, was able to receive a free occupational‑therapy assessment during a stop at the West Tulsa Community Center. She now has a personalized plan to manage daily activities and is already in talks with a local nonprofit about respite care options.
Jalen “Jay” Thomas, a 22‑year‑old high school senior, attended a “Job Readiness” workshop hosted by the Arc on the Go at Tulsa’s downtown library. Jay, who has struggled with ADHD, walked away with a resume template and a list of potential entry‑level positions at local businesses.
Elderly Mr. Henry O’Brien, who lives in the suburbs of Tulsa, received a free home‑visit assessment in the Arc’s “Health & Wellness” module while the vehicle was parked outside his local church. He was connected to a local dietitian and now has a meal‑planning schedule to manage his type‑2 diabetes.

These anecdotes underscore the program’s dual promise: to address immediate needs while building a long‑term support network.

How Does the Schedule Work?

The Arc’s website (link provided in the article) outlines a quarterly schedule for the mobile units, with each vehicle assigned to specific zip codes. Residents can view the upcoming stops on a dedicated map, sign up for drop‑in sessions, or request private appointments through a simple online portal. In addition to the free services, the Arc also offers a line of low‑cost community‑based support groups—“Circle Sessions”—for adults with developmental disabilities and their caregivers.

Funding & Sustainability

A notable feature of the article is its discussion of funding. Arc on the Go is financed through a blend of state grants, private donations, and corporate sponsorships. The Tulsa County Library’s contribution of a 10‑year partnership contract—specifically aimed at digital access for seniors—provides the program with a steady source of revenue. The Arc’s CEO, Luis Ramirez, notes that the program’s scalability depends on continued community investment: “We’ve seen the value of mobility firsthand. To expand further, we’re looking for more sponsors and volunteers to keep the vehicles running.”

The Road Ahead

Looking forward, the Arc on the Go plans to add a second fleet of vehicles within the next two years, enabling coverage of the entire Tulsa metropolitan area. The organization also intends to develop a mobile app that will allow users to schedule appointments, receive health tips, and connect with local service providers. The article closes by emphasizing the broader vision of Arc on the Go: “This isn’t just about moving services around—it’s about redefining how we think about accessibility and community care in Tulsa,” says Maria Alvarez.

Final Takeaway

Arc on the Go represents a major shift in how the Arc of the Southwest and Tulsa community stakeholders approach service delivery. By merging mobility, technology, and partnership, the initiative is poised to bring meaningful change to residents who might otherwise face logistical barriers to support. As the city embraces this “mobile, community‑first” model, the article signals that Arc on the Go could serve as a blueprint for similar programs nationwide.

Read the Full Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati Article at:
[ https://local12.com/community/arc-on-the-go ]

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