The Center of Hope celebrates its 75th Anniversary

This year marks the Center of Hope’s 75th Anniversary. The Center of Hope started as 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. 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.

 “Thinking about the fact that this year is our 75th year of providing services in the community is an amazing accomplishment. It is a perfect time to look back over the years. Since the beginning, Barbara Olson saw a need for her daughter and so many others. The School of Hope was the beginning of so many wonderful opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities and continually transitioned over the years, always keeping choices and the participants first,” said Pam Carey, executive director.

Throughout the year, the Center of Hope will be celebrating the anniversary. Watch for details.