To secure resources for the SpArc Philadelphia family of organizations and to educate the community about inclusion and independence for all people with disabilities.

1948
The Arc of Philadelphia is formed by parents who sought better services for their children with disabilities.

1974
Halderman v. Pennhurst is filed in Pennsylvania on behalf of the residents of Pennhurst State School & Hospital. The case highlighted the horrific conditions at state "schools" for people with disabilities, and illustrated the violations to patients' constitutional rights.

1987
Pennhurst State School & Hospital officially closes its doors.

1990
Philadelphia Developmental Disabilities Corporation (PDDC) is formed as a service provision of The Arc of Philadelphia.

The Americans with Disabilities Act is signed by President George Bush, bringing full legal citizenship to Americans with disabilities, as well as access to a wide range of areas of public life.

2008
SpArc Philadelphia is created to manage the administrative side of The Arc of Philadelphia and PDDC.

2014
PDDC rebrands as SpArc Services.

The Neurodiversity in the Workplace initiative is developed to provide professional training to people with Autism and inclusive hiring practices for companies across the nation.

2017
SpArc Marketplace launches, providing an online avenue for individuals with disabilities to sell their original artwork and crafts.