OUR HISTORY AND HERITAGE

The concept of our organization emerged during the 1960’s, when social concerns regarding the civil rights of people with disabilities led to the deinstitutionalization of persons with severe mental illness. This gave birth to the idea of less restrictive, yet supportive environments within the community for this population. With this goal in mind, our founder, Dr. Sterling Cotlin, established PRIDE Inc. on the grounds of Taunton State Hospital in 1969, to provide vocational training and opportunities for patients with mental illness.

In September of 1973, PRIDE expanded operations and opened a community-based facility in Raynham, Massachusetts. We were incorporated as Preparatory Rehabilitation for Individual Development and Employment [PRIDE]. Here the organization expanded to serve 50 people annually, providing services to a wider range of individuals with many types of disabilities. The PRIDE Workshop offered vocational evaluations, training, and adjustment programs with counseling and placement services. The Workshop also provided a simulated work setting that evaluated work habits, behaviors and employment opportunities.

Continuing to meet the growing needs of our service area, during the 1980’s PRIDE moved to our present facility, a 35,000 square foot building at 3 Maple Street in Taunton. We have expanded our capabilities here to offer a wide range of innovative programs and services to more than 640 individuals, with the ongoing goal of improving the quality of individuals' lives.