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Michael at the day program in Milwaukie.

Edwards Enterprises packaging and assembly business.

Dr. Jean Edwards and several families of children shut out of the public school system because of their disabilities, founded Edwards Center in 1972.

Together they launched one of the nation’s first non-profit organizations dedicated to the independence and dignity of people with autism, cerebral palsy, mental retardation, epilepsy and other debilitating conditions. The unwavering mission of Edwards is to give people with disabilities the chance to live and work as most other Americans do—in non-institutionalized settings.

At its inception, Edwards Center served just six adults who were not allowed to attend public school in Washington and Clackamas counties. Today, we provide homes, jobs and activities to enhance the lives of more than 300 individuals desiring program services.

Edwards Center offers living arrangements in single-family homes, duplexes and apartments where adults with disabilities live independently with 24-hour support. For those who need less assistance and live in their own apartments, Edwards also offers daily check-in and support services as needed.

Some clients are retired or simply prefer not to work, but need a place to head off to in the morning. Our day centers offer a safe, inviting environment with pet and art therapy and daily outings to local attractions. The day centers in Aloha and Milwaukie are also a place for adults to socialize and create networks of friends.

Edwards Center created a business called Edwards Enterprises that provides packaging and assembly work subcontracted from the local business community. Two production sites are in operation—one in Beaverton and one in Milwaukie—employing more than 150 people. We also offer off-site job coaching and training to those who want to work within their local communities.