Founded by a small group of concerned community members

Our History

Founded 1965

Prior to 1965
Prior to 1965

No Services for Intellectual and Developmentally Disabled

Prior to 1965, there were virtually no services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Marshall or Starke Counties, aside from four public school classrooms for mildly disabled children.

1965
1965

Marshall-Starke Development Center Founded

When a group of passionate individuals gathers, incredible things are created. In 1965, a small group of concerned and dedicated individuals focused on how to provide services and programs to individuals with disabilities.

Most of these individuals were parents of children with a disability.

1966
1966

First Classes Begin in January

In a renovated motel on Old 31 West, the first classes began with a new director, Shirley Amond. Twenty-two children were enrolled in the first semester.

In the first year, goals for the start of a summer program and a  sheltered workshop were set.

1967
1967

Everyone needs a job and a salary

This was the focus of MSDC beginning in 1967. A committee was appointed to look into adding a Sheltered Workshop.

The Center also struggled financially and made a strong appeal for donations in order to stay open. The Century Club was established.

1969
1969

MSDC adds transportation

Two new 11-passenger vans were added to MSDC.

A Sheltered Workshop certificate was also awarded by the US Department of Labor allowing individuals to earn a wage for contracted labor.

1970
1970

MSDC adds new space

A new mobile classroom was added outside of Argos.

New Adult Services building opens up in Plymouth offering a variety of programs.

1976
1976

MSDC opens PIDCO Drive Location

The new expansion at PIDCO Drive in Plymouth allowed for expanded services and room for growth. The vision included offering programs for the full age spectrum from infant to adult.

1984
1984

MSDC becomes a Head Start provider

An application was submitted to serve as the Head Start provider in Marshall, and Starke Counties was approved.

1992
1992

Kaleidoscope Children's Center Opens

Thanks to the support of our community, Kaleidoscope Children’s Center opens as the home to our Head Start, Early Head Start, and Early Childhood Vocational Educational programs. By partnering with the North Central Area Vocational Cooperative and Ivy Tech College our dual credit Early Childhood Vocational Education Program provides instruction and field experience for local high school students aspiring a professional teaching career.

1994
1994

Manitou Center Opens

In June of 1994, Marshall-Starke and the Fulton County ARC, d.b.a., Manitou Center, merged to enhance and expand adult programs and services.

1995
1995

MSDC Purchases Real Products

This industry is housed in the Marshall-Starke workshop and manufactures wooded reels for the wire industry. While employing traditional workers, Real Products also provides job placement and work opportunities for individuals enrolled in Marshall-Starke programs.

1998
1998

Early Head Start program begins

Marshall-Starke continued to grow with the addition of the Early Head Start program in 1998. The Early Head Start program provides services to pregnant women, infants/toddlers and families.