Murray County Developmental Center

In March of 1973, a group of concerned families and citizens of Murray County founded the Murray County Developmental Center. It was originally incorporated as the Murray County Association of Retarded Children. A proposal, which was submitted the the State, was to serve approximately thirty mentally retarded children and adults. The State funded this proposal. The first facility was a five-room house located on Third Avenue in Chatsworth next to the old hospital. As the number of clients served by the center grew, it became apparent there was a need for expanded services and a larger facility. The Murray County Association undertook a fund-raising project for a larger facility in a new location. In August of 1975, the Center moved to its present location on Chestnut Street. The Center then incorporated under a separate Board of Directors from that of the Association for Retarded Citizens. Many changes have occurred through the years, but in 1998, the Center contracted with Vocational Rehabilitation to provide supported employment services. The Center also began the CARF accreditation process, which was completed in 1998 with the Center receiving three year accreditation. The Center has successfully competed the CARF accreditation every three years since 1998. As a result of the last survey in 2014, the Center was awarded a three year accreditation.

The Center provides group and individual services which enable an individual to acquire new skills as well as enhance previously learned skills. Individuals work on academic skills as well as self help skills. individuals participate in volunteer activities in the community at the Recycle Center as well as other community organizations. The Center assists individuals in preparing for employment through prevocational skills as well as supported employment.