Devereux Foundation

California center's Devereux Hall in Santa Barbara County in 2010

Devereux Foundation is a non-profit organization that specializes in providing services for individuals with emotional, developmental, and educational disabilities. The foundation is known for its commitment to offering high-quality care and support through a wide range of programs tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual they serve. Founded in 1912 by Helena T. Devereux, the organization has grown to become one of the largest and most comprehensive behavioral healthcare providers in the United States.

History

The Devereux Foundation was established by Helena T. Devereux, a pioneering educator in the field of special education. Initially, Devereux began her work by teaching children with special needs in her own home, recognizing the lack of adequate educational and support services for these individuals. Her success and dedication led to the expansion of her mission, culminating in the creation of the Devereux Foundation. Over the years, the foundation has expanded its services and geographic footprint, now operating multiple centers across the country.

Mission and Services

The mission of the Devereux Foundation is to change lives and nurture human potential. They focus on empowering individuals with disabilities to lead fulfilling and rewarding lives. The foundation provides a variety of services, including:

• Residential treatment and care
• Special education services
• Outpatient services
• Transition and independent living services
• Vocational training

These services are designed to support the physical, emotional, educational, and social needs of individuals from childhood through adulthood.

Programs and Initiatives

The Devereux Foundation is known for its innovative programs and initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for those they serve. Some of their key programs include:

• The Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework, which focuses on improving social, emotional, and academic outcomes for all students.
• The Devereux Student Strengths Assessment (DESSA), a standardized tool used to measure the social-emotional competencies of children and adolescents.
• Specialized therapeutic programs tailored to individuals with specific needs, such as autism spectrum disorders, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and emotional and behavioral differences.

Locations

The Devereux Foundation operates in several states across the United States, including Pennsylvania, Florida, New Jersey, and Texas, among others. Each location offers a range of services tailored to the needs of the local community and the individuals they serve.

Challenges and Controversies

Like many large organizations in the healthcare sector, the Devereux Foundation has faced challenges and controversies, particularly concerning the safety and well-being of those in their care. The foundation continuously works to address these issues, implementing stricter safety protocols and enhancing their programs to ensure the highest standards of care.

Conclusion

The Devereux Foundation remains a vital resource for individuals with disabilities and their families. Through its comprehensive range of services and commitment to excellence, the foundation strives to fulfill its mission of empowering individuals to lead healthy, productive lives.