Horizons Inc. marks 50 years of service

Horizons Inc. is celebrating 50 years of serving the DD community.

“It all started with a parent who did not want her daughter in an institution,” said Donna Merrill, executive director. “She wanted her to be able to remain in a home-like environment.”

According to Horizons’ website, their mission is to develop and provide living environments that enable the DD individual to live life to the fullest. "We strive to provide health and safety, habilitative services, and transportation to recreational activities that enhance the quality of life.”

The organization works with individuals in Coshocton, Harrison, Jefferson, Tuscarawas and Wayne counties. Services are provided seven days a week, 365 days a year.

Staff help clients in a variety of ways from looking out for their health and safety to helping them with their finances and grocery shopping.

“Individuals get to remain in their own areas, do the things they like to do and be around people they know,” Merrill said.

Horizons Inc. works with the county board of DD, and the individuals they serve are provided with choices of who they want to assist them. Annual meetings are held so their plans can be discussed and updated as necessary.

“There are a lot of good choices for people now,” Merrill said. “They can live like everybody else. They just need a little more support.”

While most of their clients are adults, Merrill said they hope to serve more children in the future and offer parents respite opportunities.

To celebrate the organization’s anniversary, a special party was held May 19 at the Bella Amore on Enchanted Acres in Dennison.

For more information on Horizons Inc., visit www.horizonsoftuscarawasandcarroll.com or call the Coshocton office at 740-295-9683.