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. We have a fully staffed nursing department, and our direct care staff are fully trained in First Aid, CPR and behavior management.
I feel happy to be coming to the Center of Hope.
As we get closer to #GivingTuesday we like to remind people what the day is all about – helping those in need.
Bill H., a five-and-a-half-year participant at the Center, returned after being away for six months because of the pandemic restrictions. He prides himself on “being a good listener and never being late or absent from work.” When Bill was away from the Center and not able to work, he was “confused, bored, and worried.” Now that he’s back, Bill says, “I feel happy when I’m at the Center of Hope.”
Your donations mean the world to us and people like Bill. We’re counting on your support this year. Any amount makes a difference.
Donate $200 or more through November 30 and it will be matched with $200 by The Coleman Foundation.
OUR VALUES
Make a Difference.
The Center of Hope always has need for items and equipment for our programs and participants.
By making a donation, you are helping the Center provide valuable vocational and educational opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
You can have a positive impact on someone’s life at the Center of Hope.
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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.