From Institutions to Community-Based Supports

From Institutions to Community-Based Supports

NBA’s ministry and service with people with disabilities has also evolved throughout the years. “At the White House Conference on Children and Youth in 1960, more recommendations were made in the field of ‘mental retardation’ than any other concern… After being so long neglected in the past, these ‘exceptional’ children were finally brought out of the back rooms of their homes and the public institutions to have their needs studied and addressed.” (Inasmuch, p139.)

Historic Disciples organizations such as Woodhaven and Serra Center began as learning and residential centers and evolved into models of community-based supports where individuals can live lives of independence and inclusion.

Visit NBA’s Partner Directory to learn more about other Disciples-related health and social service ministries working with people with disabilities.