Our History

Easterseals West Kentucky represents nearly half a century of helping people with physical and mental challenges to gain greater independence by providing quality services.  Established in 1954 through the merger of the McCracken County Cerebral Palsy Organization and the Crippled Children's Clinic, Easterseals West Kentucky serves 19 counties in western Kentucky, plus areas in southern Illinois and southeastern Missouri. 

The Crippled Children's Clinic, which was sponsored by the Charity League of Paducah, began in 1934 and served crippled children in Paducah and McCracken County.  The McCracken County Cerebral Palsy Organization opened in 1952, thanks to a generous gift from the Paducah Lions Club to help with the first year operating costs.  Both the Paducah Lions Club and Charity League of Paducah continue their generous investments to Easterseals West Kentucky.

Americans With Disabilities Act

Easterseals also advocates for the passage of legislation to help people with disabilities achieve independence, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Passed in 1990, the ADA prohibits discrimination against anyone who has a mental or physical disability, guaranteeing the civil rights of people with disabilities.