Therapists work with a child at Toledo Society for Crippled Children - 1949

Founding of the Center

The Ability Center began as a Rotarian dream. Established in December of 1920 as The Society for Crippled Children, it served as hospital/rehabilitation facility for children (and, later, adults) with Polio until the advent of the Salk vaccine in the mid-1950’s. For much of this time, the hospital was located in what is now St. Anthony’s Villa.

Boys listen to the ball game on the radio at Toledo Society for Crippled Children - 1949

Evolution

In the early 1960′s the agency became known as Opportunity Kindergarten, providing educational opportunities for children with disabilities.

In 1976 the Center evolved again, as dictated by the needs of the day, to provide comprehensive services to people living with disabilities of all ages in the community. The name was then changed to The Toledo Society for the Handicapped.

The Libbey House - once home to Opportunity Kindergarten and Toledo Society for the Handicapped - 1960's and 70's

By 1989, the movement to create a nationwide network of centers, which held with the Independent Living philosophy, had expanded and taken hold. The Board of Trustees changed its mission and became a Center for Independent Living (CIL). In keeping with this mission change, in 1990, The Society changed its name to The Ability Center of Greater Toledo.

Today

The Ability Center serves seven northwestern Ohio counties (Lucas, Ottawa, Wood, Fulton, Henry, Defiance and Williams) via its main office in Sylvania, and regional offices in Defiance and Port Clinton. As detailed in this website, we offer a wide range of services and opportunities designed to assist people with disabilities in gaining, or maintaining, independence in everyday living. We also provide information and support to community organizations and businesses necessary for providing inclusive programs and services to all citizens.