Ponder this: What began as an Army surplus tent on seven acres has grown into a leading force for disability inclusion. That place is Melwood. Melwood’s story began in 1963. The USDA donated the unimproved land. Here, the founders envisioned a place for people with disabilities. They could gain job skills and earn respectable incomes here.
Melwood has pioneered social-entrepreneurial ventures for over 60 years. These ventures provide revenue. This revenue supports program services. They also create jobs and independence for people with disabilities. Melwood advocates and empowers people with disabilities. It expands opportunities to work and thrive in the community.
Melwood elevates supportive work environments. It creates accessible places. People can live, work, and thrive here. Melwood uses data to drive innovation and empowerment. Melwood is innovative. It sets an example for others to follow. Melwood leads conversations about disability policy. This policy concerns work and economic empowerment.
Melwood delivers results. It secures resources needed to support its mission. The organization is dedicated to creating solutions where none exist. This includes workforce development, education, and housing. Melwood is committed to innovating. It asks questions and creates pathways for lasting change.
In the 1970s, the name changed. It became Melwood Horticultural Training Center, Inc. The organization acquired a 108-acre property in Charles County, Maryland. This is now home to the Melwood Recreation Center.
The 1980s brought the first of many federal contracts. These were for grounds and custodial work in Washington, D.C. By 1989, Melwood employed over 800 individuals.
Camp Accomplish opened in the 1990s. It started as a camp for kids with disabilities. It became a camp for all children.
Melwood ended subminimum wages for people with disabilities in the 2010s. It began advocating for abolition at the state and federal level. By 2017, Melwood supported over 2,100 individuals.
Today, Melwood employs over 1,600 people. It supports over 3,000 people each year. Melwood has corporate restructuring. Melwood Inc. was introduced. Two new primary divisions were created. These are Melwood Enterprises and Melwood Community Services.
Melwood envisions a world where people with differing abilities are fully included. It offers job training, employment, and community living. Recreation opportunities and life skills are also provided. These services reach more than 1,900 people with developmental disabilities. They live in the Washington, DC area. Melwood operates a training center. It graduates about 100 workers each year. Melwood employs approximately 900 people with differing abilities. They work at over 40 work sites in the National Capital area.
Melwood’s mission is clear. It advocates for and empowers individuals with disabilities. It transforms lives through unique opportunities. They work and play in the community.
Melwood’s Community Services Division offers in-home and community support. This support is for adults and children with differing abilities. Services include day habilitation, job support, and workforce training.
Melwood also offers Operation: Tohidu. These retreats incorporate PTSD education and alternative therapies. The goal is reintegration into families and communities for injured service members.
Melwood remains focused on its goals. These include increasing the number of people served. They strive to achieve financial sustainability. They differentiate the Melwood brand. They cultivate an empowered workforce. They ensure the quality of the Melwood Board of Directors.
Melwood invites all to join them. Be all in. Be part of a movement. Refuse to accept anything less than a society that embraces the disabled community.