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"The Mission of First Step, Inc. is
to promote integration
and independence of all people with disabilities.
Approved by the Board of Directors,
First Step, Inc. April 20, 1998
ABOUT US
First Step offers programs
and services to individuals with developmental disabilities and
delays. Our staff of trained teachers and therapists is here to
evaluate and organize a program to suit the needs of the
individual.
After an initial screening, young children who show signs of
developmental delay may benefit from
Early
Intervention.Children in this program are offered
specialized care to aid in their development.
Our
Preschool Program teaches
children basic skills and gives them the special attention they
may need in preparation for attending public school.
School-age children may benefit from
on-going therapies and assistance through First Step.
For adults with developmental disabilities, there are various
programs and services offered such as
Supported Employment,
Day Programs and
On Our Own living. Please click on
the links in our menu to learn more about the services offered.
First Step History
In 1958, a group of parents, civic
leaders and health professionals realized the need for services
within the local community for individuals with special needs. The
services offered by First Step in the early years focused mainly
on daycare and preschool classes. Beginning with only 12 students,
we soon developed programs and services to reach out beyond Hot
Springs. First Step was one of the first providers in Arkansas to
offer Early Intervention for newborns. Today this program is
offered nationwide.
In 1981, Pam Bland became First Step's Executive Director. Through
her dedication and persistence, we now have centers in Malvern,
Fordyce, Glenwood, Sparkman, Mt. Ida and Hamburg, Arkansas. Today,
First Step aims to reach children and adults with Developmental
Delay/Disability by offering classes, therapies and services to
help each individual reach their full potential. We now serve over
1600 clients in 26 Arkansas counties. First Step has been a member
agency of the United Way of Garland County for more than 40 years.
“We
are committed to helping ordinary families faced with
extraordinary circumstances get the help they need.”
-Pam Bland, Executive Director
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