Where It All Began
In 1967, a group of concerned parents came together in a church basement in Houlton, Maine to form the Southern Aroostook Association for Retarded Children (SAARC). Their goal was simple yet revolutionary for its time: to ensure their children with intellectual disabilities had access to education, services, and a meaningful place in the community.
Founded as SAARC
The Southern Aroostook Association for Retarded Children was established in a church basement by parents seeking services for their children with developmental disabilities.
HRC Established
The Houlton Regional Center (HRC) was established, providing a centralized location for services and programs in the community.
Downsizing to Small Homes
Following national trends in deinstitutionalization, the organization began moving residents into smaller, community-based homes that offered a more personal, home-like environment.
Became Community Living Association
The organization officially changed its name to Community Living Association, reflecting its evolved mission and person-first philosophy. The Roger Randall Center was also built in this year, providing modern facilities for programs and administration.
Growing to Serve More
Through the 1990s and 2000s, CLA expanded its services and its reach. New residential homes opened, community case management programs launched, and employment services helped consumers find meaningful work in their communities. The organization grew from a small parent advocacy group into a comprehensive service provider.
A New Chapter
CLA continued to evolve with the construction of new facilities and the expansion of programs throughout Aroostook and Penobscot counties.
Today, Community Living Association is the second largest employer in Houlton, with more than 160 employees serving over 270 people across multiple programs and residential settings throughout Northern and Central Maine.
CLA Today
What began as a parent-led advocacy group has grown into one of Maine's most respected providers of services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. CLA operates assisted living homes, a group home, a nursing facility, day programs, employment services, community case management, shared living, and supported independent living programs.
Through it all, the founding vision has never changed: every person deserves the opportunity to live a full, independent, and valued life in their community.