Our Vision is to enrich the lives of people with disabilities or other barriers to employment by developing meaningful employment opportunities. Our Mission is to offer a variety of employment options within our facility and in the community by operating a viable business. This will help these individuals to achieve their maximum potential in a safe, integrated and barrier free environment.

Description:
Opportunity Development Centers, Inc. both in Wisconsin Rapids and Marshfield, are private, not for profit organizations, which provide employment training, placement, and other rehabilitative services to area people with disabilities. The goal of ODC is to assist individuals in achieving their highest level of employment either within the facility or out in the community. With a variety of innovative programs we are able to assist with individual program planning, job modification and a holistic team approach. Our professional staff evaluate an individuals work skills and abilities, and if necessary can develop or re-establish skills. We believe that work enhances the quality of our lives, and we can provide the support and encouragement needed so that adults with disabilities can feel the satisfaction of being part of the workforce and earning a paycheck.

History:
In 1965, a group of parents of adults with disabilities envisioned a workplace for their children that would create vocational opportunities, enhance self esteem, and serve as a path to greater independence. The vision became a reality when their efforts created the "South Wood County Sheltered Workshop" in Wisconsin Rapids. In 1970 they merged with the Marshfield Rehabilitation Workshop, In.c to become Wood County Workshop, Inc. In 17975 the name was changed to Opportunity Development Centers, Inc to reflect the changes in programming. In 1965 ODC served 14 people with disabilities and in 2007 that number has grown to over 500. This number reflects persons served through a variety of programs available at both sites.

Contact person: Kathy Molepske, Councelor Aide/Trainer, (phone), (email)

Address:

1191 Huntington Ave Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494 (See a map)

Web Site: http://www.odcinc.com

Directions:

Once in Wisconisn Rapids you need to take State Highway 13 South or 8th St S to Huntington Ave (look for True Value or Sears signage on left). Turn left onto Huntington Ave. We are on the next block.

Last updated on May 17, 2011