New Perspectives, Inc. (NPI) proudly celebrated a century of dedicated service to individuals with diverse abilities in 2022. Our legacy began in 1922, when a visionary group of Methodist women established the Harriet Ballou New Hope Center (HBNHC). As the first facility of its kind in the Siouxland area, the center provided pioneering day-care services for children with disabilities.
As the needs of our community evolved, so did our mission. In the 1960s, the organization shifted its focus from pediatric care to adult services, rebranding as the Work Activity Company (WACO) 1975. For over thirty years, WACO operated as a cornerstone of vocational support, providing sheltered work opportunities that empowered adults to earn a paycheck and gain independence, regardless of the barriers they faced.
In June 2000, we transitioned to New Perspectives, Inc. This change was more than just a new name; it represented a fundamental shift in our philosophical approach to rehabilitation in the 21st century. We recognized that the community desired services rooted in integration rather than isolation.
Our mission is to challenge and change societal perceptions by focusing on an individual’s abilities rather than their disabilities.
Today, NPI remains a leader in fostering independence and inclusion. We facilitate meaningful community integration through two primary pillars of support:
The Community Employment Program: Partnering with local businesses to create sustainable career paths.
The Life Enrichment Center: Providing resources and programming designed to enhance social engagement and personal growth.