History

Our History

Founded in 1942, Easterseals South Florida (originally the Crippled Children's Society) was the first to offer education to children with disabilities in Miami—at a time when public schools did not. From a church basement classroom, we’ve grown into a comprehensive nonprofit serving individuals of all ages and abilities.

Key Milestones:

• 1957: Opened a comprehensive rehabilitation center
• 1967: Launched a school for children with learning disabilities
• 1972–1982: Introduced a therapeutic pool, scoliosis screenings, and early intervention for infants
• 1983–1993: Added vocational services, Alzheimer’s day care, in-home respite care, and a culinary arts program
• 2000–2001: Expanded tutoring and opened a second Alzheimer’s care center in Hialeah

Easterseals Broward County

Established in 1941, Easterseals Broward (then the South Florida Chapter of the Crippled Children's Society) began as a volunteer-run organization helping children with disabilities.

Highlights:

• 1950s–60s: Provided physical therapy, equipment loans, and educational services from a Fort Lauderdale facility
• 1968: Renamed the Easterseals Rehabilitation Center
• 1988: Opened the 17,000 sq. ft. Norma & William Horvitz Easterseals Center in Plantation
• 2000: Became Easterseals Broward County under the national Easterseals brand

Together, Easterseals South Florida and Broward County have evolved to meet the changing needs of our communities—empowering individuals and strengthening families for over 80 years.

Across South Florida and Broward County, Easterseals continues to pioneer solutions for individuals with disabilities and their families—through education, therapy, vocational training, memory care, and more. Our work is rooted in community and powered by innovation.