The Arc, Upper Valley

04/06/2026

Final thrift store auction. Everything must go.
Bid online on merchandise, fixtures, and more.
Proceeds directly support The Arc Upper Valley’s mission.
Auction Link: https://www.k-bid.com/auction/63655

04/02/2026

Families of youth with disabilities in Northeast North Dakota, we want to hear from you. The Arc Upper Valley, in partnership with regional school districts, service providers, and advocates, are working together to develop a Transition Guide to support the move from high school to adult life. Your input will help shape this resource, so it reflects real experiences and needs across our community and region. Please take a few minutes to complete this short survey. You can scan the QR code or use the link below. Your feedback will help make this guide practical and meaningful for families across Northeast North Dakota.

Survey Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScbvml7RDlWwg4_E_4MZc_HVf6zHeMW3_d8_vXuk8mzMTMFpA/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=114467770696148261443

03/21/2026

A huge thank you to the UND Fighting Hawks Hockey Team and Coaches for joining The Arc Upper Valley to "Rock Your Socks" in honor of World Down Syndrome Day! We are so grateful to have the team’s support as we raise awareness and celebrate the incredible individuals in our community. World Down Syndrome Day is celebrated every year on March 21st, a date specifically chosen because it represents the uniqueness of the triplication of the 21st chromosome. By rocking your socks, you’re helping us start conversations about inclusion and reminding everyone that while we may look a little different, our differences are what make the world a more vibrant place. Thank you again to the Fighting Hawks for standing with us and showing that North Dakota pride means supporting everyone in our community!

Show us your socks in the comments!

And a huge RAVE to Erica LaMarca from LaMarca Photography for the great pics!!

03/17/2026

📦 We’re Moving!

We’re excited to share that we’ll be relocating to our new office next week! 🎉 ID Metryx Fingerprinting will be joining us in the new space as well.

During the transition, we may have limited access to phone and internet. If you need assistance, please email staff directly or reach out to us at thearc@arcuv.com.

We plan to reopen for regular business hours on Monday, March 30, with office hours Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (additional times available by appointment).

Thank you for your patience—we can’t wait to welcome you into our new space!

03/13/2026

Who else is excited for the Autism Walk on April 11th? We will see you there!

03/09/2026

As many of you know, our thrift store recently closed and we are getting ready to move into a new office space. Read our post to learn how we prioritized accessibility and inclusivity during our search.

We want to hear from you: "What makes a space feel truly accessible and welcoming?" Tell us below.

02/13/2026

01/23/2026

We have updated our sale today! Everything is 75% off. We also still have a few "$1.00 bag sales" happening on specific merchandise. All merchandise must go by next Thursday. Thanks for shopping and supporting our organization!

01/21/2026

Pawsitive Vibes at Work Day!

01/20/2026

All thrift store merchandise is 50% off this week.

12/31/2025

Our thrift store will close on January 29, 2026. Our organization will continue to operate with a strong focus on mission-driven services. We appreciate your patience as we navigate this necessary transition. Our priority right now is to support our thrift store staff as they pursue new endeavors. Change is hard, but we believe it can create space for growth. Read our full statement:

For Immediate Release | December 31, 2025

The Arc Upper Valley announced today that its thrift store, located at 1200 S. Washington Street in Grand Forks, will close on January 29, 2026. This decision reflects careful consideration of long-term sustainability and alignment with the organization’s mission and priorities.

The organization has operated thrift stores since 1970, with multiple locations throughout Grand Forks and the surrounding region over the years. These stores have provided affordable goods, inclusive employment and training opportunities, and welcoming spaces for customers, donors, volunteers, and staff.

While the thrift store is closing, The Arc Upper Valley will continue to operate with a strong focus on its mission: promoting and protecting the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and supporting their full inclusion in the community throughout their lifetimes. This transition allows the organization to focus resources on strengthening mission-driven programs and services.

Supporting employees through this transition is a top priority. Thrift store staff have been notified and are being supported in connecting with employment resources and agencies. The organization will also provide references and individualized assistance to help employees secure new employment opportunities.

Throughout January, the store will hold sales to sell remaining merchandise, fixtures, furniture, and supplies prior to closing.
The Arc Upper Valley will continue operations and plans to relocate to a new office location once one is identified. The organization will retain fingerprinting services to continue some business operations, engage with the community, and generate revenue. Beginning in February, community members may call the office phone number to schedule fingerprinting appointments.

The Arc Upper Valley is grateful to employees, volunteers, donors, and customers for their contributions to the thrift store. For more information, visit thearcuppervalley.org or contact the office at (701) 772-6191.