The Potential Development Program Inc. has been providing services to children in our community with developmental delays since 1953.  Under the leadership of Ms. Christine Kline, the Agency was originally incorporated as the United Cerebral Palsy Association.  To accommodate the changing needs of the community, the Agency has experienced a number of internal and external changes.  In 1976, the Agency was reincorporated and took on the name “Potential Development Program Inc.”  The Agency moved away from serving children with cerebral palsy and physical disabilities and focused on children with developmental delays especially speech and language delays and children with challenging behaviors. 

Once again, in the early 1990’s, the Potential Development Program redefined the services to meet a sharp increase in requests for services for children within the autism spectrum.

Staff received extensive training in working with these children and the Agency quickly became a leader in the education of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

In January 2000, PD’s Place was established to address a community need that became present in Trumbull County.  PD’s Place is a preschool program that serves children with autism and with severe communication delays.  PD’s Place is housed within the Children’s Rehabilitation Center.

In September 2001, the Potential Development Program again addressed a community need by expanding services to include a non-public chartered school which serves children with autism in grades kindergarten through eight.  The ultimate plan is to prepare children for a smooth transition to their local public school.  This can be achieved by working with children for their preschool years and continuing to work with them into grade school.  These extended services can help to insure a smooth transition to their local school district when the parents feel it is appropriate.

The evolution of the Agency over the years has always remained consistent with the mission statement: 

“To promote the welfare of children with special needs and their families through individualized educational services.  To enhance skills, develop self esteem and enrich children’s lives in a nurturing environment.”

The Board of Directors of the Potential Development Program continually monitor the performance of existing programs and look for ways to address unmet community needs while using the Agency’s Vision Statement:

“Overcoming obstacles, building dreams, and inspiring excellence.”

as their guide for future growth.