WHO WE ARE
The Barbara Olson Center of Hope has a mission to help individuals with developmental disabilities reach personal goals through individualized skill development, vocational opportunities and community service.
The Rockford Parents Group started the School of Hope in 1948 to provide education for children who were not considered able to learn. In 1972, the federal government passed a law guaranteeing every child the right to a free, appropriate education in public schools. At this time, the School of Hope changed its direction from schooling for children to vocational opportunities and employment for teens and adults with developmental disabilities, renaming it the Barbara Olson Center of Hope in honor of Mrs. Olson’s outstanding commitment to the organization.
Who do we serve? We serve anyone who has a developmental disability, in need of active treatment, and who is appropriate for our programs as determined through Services, Inc. and our referral system.
We work with the school districts and provide services through our School Transition program.
The Center of Hope provides developmental training, which includes Community Employment Services and Volunteer Opportunities. We do not provide residential services.
We serve individuals with behavior issues and/or medical problems. Our direct care staff are fully trained in First Aid, CPR and behavior management.
Your donations have a profound impact on the individuals we serve. Every contribution helps us provide vital services – from job and life skills training to meaningful employment – empowering people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to overcome challenges and create brighter futures that they choose.
For every dollar you donate by July 31, it will be matched dollar-for-dollar by The Blazer Foundation, up to $10,000! Just click below to double your impact.
Thank you to all who supported our MOD PIZZA fundraiser. 20% of the proceeds from your order came back to the Center of Hope!
OUR VALUES
Make a Difference.
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CHANGE A LIFE TODAY
It doesn’t take much to change a life. Get in touch today and start making the difference.