Licking County's Center for Disability Services marks 70th anniversary

HEATH ― An event celebrating the 70th anniversary of Center for Disability Services (CDS) was held last month at its administrative offices, 667 Hopewell Drive in Heath.

CDS provides supports and services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Speaker J. Andrew Crawford, president of the board of directors, recognized current and former board members and reflected on the origin of the agency and its continued success.

According to a press release from CDS, in 1949, founders Eleanor Weiant, Jane Marsh, Katie Carter and others fought the public school system to gain classroom space and education for youth with developmental disabilities and they won. In 1952, Newark City Schools gave classroom space to the group. Shortly after, on April 24, 1953, the group incorporated as the Licking County Council for Retarded Children.

A new organization was born to advocate for and influence legislation in support of people with developmental disabilities. Eleanor Weiant was the executive director until October 1963, when that position transitioned to Jane Marsh until December of 1981.

Today, the organization is known as Center for Disability Services. Although it has had name changes over the years, it remains dedicated to the goal of improving the lives of children and adults with developmental disabilities, and supporting their families.

CDS currently offers programs and services that support, educate and respect the choices of those with developmental disabilities. Current services, available in both the home and community, include supported living, adult day services, transportation, housing, and money management.