We provide exemplary service to the people we support.
We support more than 700 people with developmental disabilities in Hancock County.
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We support people with disabilities throughout their lives — at birth, home, school, work, and in the community.
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Three-quarters of our operations are funded through money that comes from levy dollars. The remaining portion of our work is funded through state and federal dollars.
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The average cost per-person is $30,000 annually but can be as high as $138,000 annually if the person has significant needs.
It all began in 1952 with eight pupils and one instructor.
In 1952, Hancock County parents faced a severe dilemma. Children with disabilities were denied admission to public schools. The parents knew their children, with developmental disabilities, deserved better and could achieve more through education. The parents joined forces and formed Howard Methodist Church School on October 28, 1952. It began classes in November 1952 with eight pupils and one instructor. The parents, and a variety of local businesses, covered the school's operating costs. In addition, the parents lobbied the Hancock County Juvenile Court to secure funding from the state for the course. The group decided to continue their efforts to raise money and expand the school. It was around this time they received a generous gift. They discovered that Tell and Opal Thompson would be willing to contribute to the school. It was with this gift they were able to purchase the land and build the school.
By 1962, the group began constructing an Adult Activity Center. In 1964, pre-school classes were offered. Thanks to the voters in Hancock County passing two levies; the new school was able to open in 1966 with additional classrooms added in 1971.
Meet our Board
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Dan Burket
President
Dan Burket joined the board in 2020. He is a Findlay native that graduated from Liberty Benton High School. He studied Political Science and Finance before becoming an entrepreneur at age 21. Dan has owned and operated Stevi B’s Pizza in Findlay since 2017. He recently got married in 2022.
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Dr. Kara Parker
Vice President
Dr. Kara Parker joined the board in 2019. Kara is the Chair of the Doctorate of Education Program and Assistant Professor of Education at the University of Findlay. She teaches courses on research, diversity, and collaboration in both the Master’s and Doctorate of Education programs.
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Becky Greeno
Secretary
Becky Greeno joined the board in 2021. She and her husband have been married over forty years. They have three adult children and two adorable grandsons. Becky has worked for a local financial institution, retired from the City of Findlay, and now works for a local auctioneer. She is very involved in her church and the community. Becky feels blessed to be able to serve on the Board of Developmental Disabilities. She is also proud to have served on the Steering Committee of the Backyard Mission Trip since the inception of the program.
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Dennis Doolittle
Board Member
Dennis Doolittle joined the board in 2019. He lives in Findlay, Ohio with his wife Shauna, daughter Katelyn who receives supports through the County Board, and family dogs Buckeye & Bailey. Dennis graduated from Vanlue Local School and studied Healthcare and Facilities Management at Owens Community College. He works as the Director of Operations at Findlay City Schools.
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Dr. Charles Hirschy
Board Member
Dr. Charles Hirschy joined the board in 2005. He served as vice president and secretary, before becoming board president in 2018. Chuck is a retired pastor and college educator. He and his wife, Margaret, reside in Findlay with their son, Clinton.
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Laura Matusoff
Board Member
Laura Joined the board in 2019. Laura has spent more than 30 years of volunteering, training, and advocating in the community. She has served in OH, MN, CA, IL, and CO. Laura joined the BVC Human Rights Committee in 2016. She currently continues that work with the COG Southern Region. Laura grew up in Findlay and returned in 2014.
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Dana Rider
Board Member
Dana Rider joined the board in 2022. Dana lives outside of Findlay, with her husband Aaron, two daughters, Clara and Frances, and dog, Charlie. Dana’s daughter, Clara was enrolled in Help Me Grow services until 3 years of age. She is an Arcadia Alumni and graduated from Bowling Green State University with a degree in Interior Design & Marketing. She is currently the Sales Manager at Wayne Homes.