About Us

Our Mission

HELP empowers individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through residential, day support, vocational, and summer education programs to choose services and opportunities as respected and valued members of the community.

Our Vision

HELP supports pathways that give every individual the chance to thrive and reach their full ability, contributing to a vibrant, inclusive community.

Our Beginnings

HELP has been a leading provider of residential services for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1965. Beginning with two resolute families and one children’s home, HELP has grown to care for more than eight hundred individuals daily through multiple programs in Northeast Ohio.

Marietta Kelly and Joanne McDonnell were Lakewood neighbors who both had sons with Down syndrome. Their common bond and love for their sons blossomed into something powerful.

They recognized there were no meaningful programs or services available for children with intellectual or developmental disabilities except for deplorable state institutions so they committed to teaming up to start HELP. This labor of love is even more special knowing that their sons did not live at HELP. These enthusiastic mothers wanted to pass on their good fortune to children like their own for generations to come. We honor their belief in making life better for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and continue to grow and expand, always keeping their vision in the forefront of our minds.

HELP’s History

1965

Articles of incorporation were drafted and the initial board meeting was held at private residences.

1967

The first home for children was purchased in East Cleveland.

1969

The first child was admitted to the HELP Home.

1970

The first child graduated.

1972

Extended Summer Program is implemented.

1978

Cleveland Foundation awards support grant for Six Chimney’s, and opens in 1983.

1983

Six Chimney’s opens.

1987

HELP contracted with Cuyahoga County Board to develop Joint Independent Living Program.

1988

HELP continues to build homes in Northeast Ohio.

1990

HELP starts work in Lake County.

1992

HELP Housing for the Disabled created.

2000

HELP opens two new children facilities.

2005

Began serving Summit and Geauga counties.

2008

Adult Day Support Program begins.

2013

Programing for seniors begins.

2015

HELP U Crew begins offering vocational training.

2016

Adult Day Program in Northfield opens.

2018

HELP acquires Cornucopia, Inc in Lakewood, OH.

2022

HELP Harvest Greenhouse opens in May.

2023

Susanna’s Café by HELP Harvest opens in the new headquarters of the Cleveland Foundation.