Published Thursday, Jan. 10, 2002
MERCER COUNTY
§ § §
Luncheon, tours set for Friday
Founded on April 19, 1952, Mercer County Association for the Retarded has grown from serving 20 children to serving more than 500 individuals with mental retardation and developmental disabilities.
A luncheon and tours will be held at noon Friday for board members, founding families and the media at MCAR's office at 850 N. Hermitage Road, Hermitage
Founded as the Mercer County Chapter of the Pennsylvania Association for Retarded Children, MCAR Inc. was started by a group of parents who needed educational programs for their children with mental retardation.
MCAR began as a day-care training center for children in rooms donated by the Salvation Army and the Farrell American Legion.
One of the first schools of its kind in northwestern Pennsylvania, the objectives of the original organization have not changed much in 50 years:
"I am very proud to be a part of this organization and the work that we do," said Robert R. Beach, MCAR chief executive officer. "Fifty years ago a dedicated group of parents had the foresight to establish this organization. We still respect and honor their original objectives.
"Our staff is very dedicated to helping our individuals live their lives to the fullest. We strive to enhance their quality of life by helping them to develop their abilities. MCAR's programs are designed to meet the needs and wants of the people we serve," he said in a news release.
MCAR offers residential services, vocational training services, employment services, and recreational and socialization programs to individuals with mental retardation who live in Mercer County.
For tours or more information, call (724) 981-2950.