The Arc Portland Metro is proud to introduce Hello World, a groundbreaking pilot program designed to empower people in the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) community through the art of filmmaking. This program provides participants with hands-on experience in cinematography, storyboarding, sound recording, and editing, allowing them to tell their own stories and develop valuable creative and technical skills.

Why Filmmaking?
Film is a powerful medium for storytelling, self-expression, and advocacy. However, people in the I/DD community often face barriers to accessing arts education and technical training. Hello World is designed to break down those barriers by offering an inclusive, supportive learning environment where participants can develop their creativity, collaborate with others, and gain confidence in their abilities.

Program Highlights:

• Hands-on Learning: Participants will explore all aspects of filmmaking, directing to editing and sound design.

• Adaptive Teaching Methods: Instruction is tailored to diverse learning styles and accessibility needs.

• Industry Exposure: local filmmakers, and mentors will share their expertise.

• Community & Collaboration: The program fosters teamwork, helping participants build social and professional connections.

• Showcasing Talent: Completed projects will be shared at a public screening, celebrating the creativity of our participants.

Our Mission
We believe that representation in media matters. By equipping individuals with the tools to tell their own stories, Hello World aims to amplify the voices of people in the I/DD community and contribute to a more inclusive film industry.

Get Involved
We’re currently seeking funding, community partnerships, and volunteer support to expand Hello World beyond its pilot phase. If you’d like to contribute or learn more, please reach out to programs@thearcpdx.org.