In 1951, with the support of the Rotary Club of Youngstown, the Mahoning County Society for Crippled Children began providing therapeutic programs and services for children with special needs. In September of 1965 the organization, now known by the name of Easterseals, announced the intention to build a new Rehabilitation Center to better serve the community. In 1967, the J. Ford Crandall Rehabilitation Center opened its doors at 299 Edwards Street in Youngstown and expanded the scope of therapeutic programs and services to adults. In 2011, Easterseals acquired Youngstown Hearing & Speech and Celtic Community Services. The mergers helped strengthen the mission of providing exceptional services to children and adults, of all abilities, so they can live, learn, work, and play in our communities.
While the mix and location of services have changed over the years, what has not changed is the commitment to serving one in four individuals living with a disability by providing outcome-based services. We are proud of our legacy of delivering equality, dignity, and independence to people with disabilities while embracing a future where everyone is 100% included and 100% empowered. As an agency, Easterseals exists to create solutions and change lives. We believe that behind every person with a disability is someone who loves them and behind them is Easterseals.