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Over the past 65 years—though Mattingly Edge has seen a multitude of incarnations and has been known by a number of different names—we have always been dedicated to supporting people with disabilities in the Louisville area; we have always worked to bring creativity, courage, and vision to the work of discovering, knowing, and defending the unique personhood of the individuals we support.
1950
The Cerebral Palsy School of Louisville
Initially founded in 1950 as the Cerebral Palsy School of Louisville by the Sisters of Mercy, we said “no” to the idea that disabled children had no right to education and “yes” to the idea that every child should be included—a sentiment that was not embraced on a federal level until 1975, twenty-five years after the Sisters of Mercy founded the Cerebral Palsy School of Louisville.
1975
The Highlands Opportunity Workshop
When education for children with disabilities became part of the public school sector—a major milestone in the disability rights movement—the Sisters of Mercy, ever-ahead of their time, reshaped their organization. They broadened their focus, asking the question: what happens to students after they graduate? In 1975 the Sisters opened the doors to the Highlands Opportunity Workshop, a sheltered workshop that supported adults with disabilities to join the workforce.
1988
The Mattingly Center for Continuing Education & Enrichment
Realizing their current services (The Cerebral Palsy School and the Highlands Opportunity Workshop) only met the needs of those with mild disability, the Sisters opened The Mattingly Center for Continuing Education and Enrichment. The newly established day program created a space for people with more significant impact of disability, offering them a chance for richer experiences. The Center was named for Sister Georgeann Mattingly whose 32-year tenure leading the organization began in 1964.
1993
The Mattingly Center (ADHC)
As it became clear there were still more people who were unable to come to the Mattingly Center for Continuing Education and Enrichment due to their health needs, the organization officially became an Adult Day Health Center (ADHC). The Mattingly Center hired nurses to provide on-site medical support, making it possible to serve an even broader population. The Center's transition to adult day health center also coincided with the closure of the Cerebral Palsy School of Louisville. Its last class graduated in 1993.
Today . . .
Mattingly Edge
On November 1st, 2017 we made the bold decision to end our day program services and instead focus all our energies on supporting people with disabilities in their own homes and in the community.
Studies and experience show isolation is a reality for almost all adults with disabilities. Group living and group programs keep people segregated from the broader community and overly dependent on others to determine the direction of their lives. Mattingly Edge is proud to say "no" to isolation and "yes" to the good things in life.
Today, we partner with citizens with disabilities to experience what many take for granted—things like meaningful relationships, access to good jobs with opportunities for advancement, a home of one's own, a chance to contribute to one's community, and so much more.
