MSS's History in the Headlines
2024 marks an incredible 75 years since the founding of our agency. As part of our celebration of this community's past, present, and future, we'll be sharing highlights from our unique history each month.
Our organization has made headlines on many occasions throughout its storied history. Whether it was for the novelty of our mission in the 1950s, the creative achievements of people in our programs, or even a celebrity sighting at one of our centers, MSS is no stranger to the spotlight.
The following excerpts provide a glimpse at our history in the pages of newspapers and on television screens across the country. They also provide insight into the changing attitudes of the public toward organizations like ours—from a curious St. Paul elementary school into an essential service for folks across the state.
"Cerebral Palsied Pupil is 'Sweetheart'" (St. Paul Pioneer Press, 1956)
10-year-old Rosemary Hoff was profiled in this piece about MSS's early incarnation as an alternative school for children with cerebral palsy. The school originally held its classes in the basement of St. Paul Rehabilitation Center with an enrollment of ten children. As word spread, students with disabilities, who were often excluded from public schools at the time, traveled great distances to experience an education adapted to their unique needs. "Rosemary has a wonderful memory," her caretaker told the Pioneer Press. "She's an alert child and has a good vocabulary. I only wish I could adopt her."
"Chains of Cerebral Palsy Broken" (St. Paul Pioneer Press, 1950s)
The press interviewed Robert Peter, an employee at the so-called "cerebral palsy workshop" that would later become our comprehensive employment program. Peter was one of 12 men with cerebral palsy who formed the workshop, which primarily produced toys and other knick-knacks. "It was getting out and working with other people like him, doing a day's work, earning a day's pay and the knowledge that the products made at the workshop are being sold on their merits that gave him the confidence he needed," the article concludes.
"For Your Cerebral Palsy Contribution" (Stillwater Shopper, 1950s)
Fundraising efforts are nothing new at MSS!
"Handicapped Voter Registry Drive Launched" (St. Paul Pioneer Press, 1972)
Our organization, which was known then as United Cerebral Palsy of Greater St. Paul, sponsored this effort to ensure people with disabilities would have their voices heard in the political process—from registering new voters to screening political candidates on issues important to their community. The group was headquartered at our early day program center at First Lutheran Church in St. Paul. "The group's goals are adequate housing and fair financial aid," the article reads, "and public buildings and transportation designed to accommodate them."
"We're In The News!" (MSS Newsletter, 1983)
On June 9th, an impressive crowd gathered for the dedication of our new center at 900 Ocean St., which replaced our previous location at First Lutheran Church. The brand-new construction represented a big step for our growing organization, as it was large enough to house our administrative office, day program, and employment program under one roof.
St. Paul Mayor George Latimer gave a speech at the event, capped off with an invocation by Reverend Ralph Lundquist of First Lutheran Church. The crowd of nearly 500 also included persons supported, their families, other nonprofit organizations, and members of the local media. "Not bad coverage…considering our event fell on the same day that President Reagan was in town," the newsletter reads.
"Mets Star Strawberry Gives All Star Performance at Midwest Special Services" (East Metro Courier, 1985)
Ahead of the 1985 MLB All Star Game held at the Metrodome, slugger Darryl Strawberry paid a special visit to MSS St. Paul. "Strawberry roamed through the facility to the delight of all present with most casting wide-eyed, excited looks and ear-to-ear smiles whenever the lanky Mets All Star approached."
"Exhibits Display Artists' Unique Talents" (The Aquin, 2008)
The article details a collaborative art project with the University of St. Thomas, in which students and faculty from the university invited artists from MSS to display their work on campus. "A collaborative exhibit like this is rare," the article reads. "Many organizations help [people with disabilities] produce art, but the artists never get a chance to display what they create."
Today, exhibits like this are becoming less and less rare—with MSS leading the way. Our Fresh Eye Gallery, which displays art by people with and without disabilities, would open some years later.
"Midwest Special Services is 60" (Access Press, 2009)
In an interview with Access Press for MSS's 60th anniversary, then-president Lyth Hartz shared his optimism for the future of our organization: "We will continue to expect great things from the people we serve. They deserve nothing less."
"CFO of the Year: Julie Johnson, Midwest Special Services" (Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal, 2015)
Then-CFO Julie Johnson was rightfully selected for this award as she oversaw the expansion of MSS from four to six centers and an ever-growing agency budget. She was also recognized for her achievements in introducing more sustainable, diverse programming for the people we support. "We are always striving to improve our services, with fewer resources, while continuing to provide the current programming options. This is not an easy task," Julie shared at the time. Some things never change!
We will be holding our 75th anniversary celebration on Thursday, July 25th at Mendakota Country Club. Mark your calendars!