Todd Dickson Legacy Ambassador
Todd Dickson first joined ARCA in the mid-1980s after seeing a help-wanted ad in the newspaper. What started as a job between opportunities became work that would shape more than 12 years of his life across two different chapters with the organization.
Over the years, Todd has worked closely with individuals to build greater independence and community involvement. He has always been especially drawn to helping people create the lives they want for themselves and finding ways to support that independence through creativity, trust, and problem-solving.
His time at ARCA changed the way he sees people and the world around him. “I’ve learned that people with disabilities have a lot more understanding about what’s going on than many give them credit for.” He recalls moments where the individuals he serves communicated far more than others expected and showed remarkable patience, generosity, and resilience.
Todd has also had the unique experience of seeing ARCA across generations. He remembers the closeness and connection of the early days and has watched the organization grow into a more professional, person-centered system of support grounded in dignity, independence, and opportunity.
Todd believes independence looks different for every person and that support should begin with listening to what individuals want for their own lives. As ARCA looks to the future, Todd hopes to see even more opportunities created through innovation, experienced staff, and strong community support.
