Easterseals
Overview
Easterseals is a prominent non-profit organization in the United States providing high-quality services and advocacy for individuals with disabilities. Founded in 1919 by Edgar Allen in Elyria, Ohio, following a personal tragedy that highlighted the inadequacies in medical services for disabled children, it now serves over 1.5 million people annually. With headquarters in Chicago, Illinois, Easterseals has expanded its reach significantly and boasts a robust network of affiliates across the nation.
Recent Developments
- April 2025: Easterseals Disability Film Challenge was featured on CNN, promoting inclusivity in media (source: Easterseals newsroom).
- March 2025: Kendra Davenport, President and CEO of Easterseals, discussed potential Medicaid cuts influencing disability services on a podcast and several media outlets including The Hill and The Guardian (source: Easterseals newsroom).
- February 2025: Easterseals Arkansas celebrated a major milestone in the construction of a new K-12 academy aimed at supporting up to 225 students with developmental disabilities. The project is valued at $10 million (source: KATV).
- January 2025: Easterseals hosted a segment at CES 2025, focusing on innovation and inclusion in healthcare delivery, emphasizing the organization's ongoing commitment to integrating technology in care (source: ESSC Blog).
- December 2024: Easterseals Canada received a transformational grant from The Slaight Family Foundation to support Canadians with disabilities, showcasing their expanding international partnerships (source: Easterseals Canada newsroom).
- November 2024: Easterseals' commitment to zero discrimination and equal opportunity continued with numerous advocacy campaigns and strategic partnerships to enhance inclusivity and accessibility.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 1919 |
| Headquarters | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Founders | Edgar Allen |
| Revenue | Not publicly disclosed |
| Profits | Not for profit |
| Key Investors | Mainly government grants and individual donors |
| Industry | Non-profit, Disability Services |
| Number of Employees | Over 32,000 across affiliates |
Early History
Easterseals originated from the National Society for Crippled Children, founded by Edgar Allen in 1919. The loss of his child due to inadequate health services propelled Allen to lobby for better medical care for children with disabilities, leading to the establishment of treatment centers in hospitals across Ohio. The organization's first significant fundraising effort, the Easter "seals" campaign in 1934, allowed it to extend its services nationwide. The adoption of the lily seal as part of the logo in 1952 further cemented its identity.
Company Profile and Achievements
Easterseals operates via a decentralized network of local affiliates, each a separate 501(c)(3) organization. Its services cover enhancing health, enriching education, expanding employment, and elevating community engagement. Over the decades, Easterseals has been a staunch advocate for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring its passage and effective implementation. It is also recognized for its influential public service campaigns that raise awareness and promote inclusivity.
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