Turnstone Center for Children and Adults with Disabilities

Turnstone was founded in 1943 as the Allen County Society for Crippled Children. The agency began as an educational program with volunteers teaching six children with special needs. Through the years, the agency and its programs grew, and a new facility was found to house both the budding children’s program, as well as a new program for adults with disabilities. Below is a brief timeline of the agency’s growth…

1943 The Allen County Society for Crippled Children was formed. The goal was to continue with the bedside teaching being discontinued by Jr. League. Plans for Hanna Homestead School developed.

1947 Hanna Homestead School for children with physical disabilities opens.

1958 Preschool program is developed after Fort Wayne Community Schools takes over operation of Hanna Homestead and starts Brentwood School for children age 6 to 16 with disabilities.

1962 Property at 2722 Fairfield Avenue purchased with a legacy of $20,000 and preschool program finds permanent home. 19 children are enrolled in the program.

1962-1972 Growth years. Additions added to Fairfield facility, including physical therapy and speech rooms, whirlpool, access ramp and playground.

1973 Homebound therapy program created for adults with physical disabilities; preschool program renamed “Robert E. Witte” Pre-School Center.

1975 Agency earns first CARF Accreditation for children’s programs.

1977 Adult day program created.

1985-86 Agency relocates to current facility at 3320 North Clinton.

1989 Allen County Society for Crippled Children and Adults, Inc. was officially renamed Turnstone Center for Disabled Children and Adults. The new name was inspired by the Ruddy Turnstone bird, which was felt to be a fitting image for the agency. The Ruddy Turnstone finds food by moving heavy stones with nearly any part of its body. Another characteristic of the Turnstone is its willingness to help fellow birds. When a stone is too heavy for a bird to move alone, other Turnstone birds gather to assist. The characteristics of Ruddy Turnstone speak to the spirit of the agency, the children and adults we serve and the community. At Turnstone, children and adults with disabilities learn to overcome their disabilities by adapting their bodies to perform many of the daily functions many people take for granted. When the disability is a difficult one to overcome, other people such as teachers, therapists, and volunteers gather to assist.

1992 Turnstone launches its residential wheelchair ramp construction service.

1993-95 Successful $3.75 million dollar capital campaign conducted. Facility grows to include a full size gymnasium and an expanded therapy space and program area.

1996 Therapeutic sports and recreation program for children and adults with physical disabilities is created.

1999-2000 Successful capital and endowment campaign for $2 million to construct a therapeutic pool, adult therapy area and renovate the children’s wing.

2001 Launched medical transportation service for elderly and disabled in cooperation with the Community Transportation Network (CTN). *CTN takes over Turnstone transportation program in 2006. Turnstone’s Adult Day Services program receives CARF accreditation.

2004 Turnstone receives grant from Department of Education to create health and wellness programs for people with disabilities. As a result, agency opens region’s first accessible fitness center for youth and adults with physical disabilities.

2005 Dr. Robert Kimbrough Early Learning Center (named after local orthopedic surgeon and friend to the agency) opens. Program includes inclusive preschool and childcare. *Before and after school care added in 2009.

2009 Turnstone becomes designated Paralympic Sports Club. Turnstone receives US Department of Education grant to expand inclusive programming as well as sports and recreation program.

Since 1943, the agency’s name, facility, staff, leadership, and programs have all changed. However, the heart and soul of Turnstone remains unchanged. It is this heart and soul that fuels the passion of our work. And our work, in turn, helps people with disabilities live with dignity and independence.