Easter Seals South Florida history

The lily -- a symbol of spring -- was officially incorporated as Easterseals' logo in 1952 for its association with resurrection and new life and has appeared on each seal since.

The demand for services continued to increase in proportion to the population growth of the area, and in 1959-60, a 7500 sq. ft. building was constructed in Fort Lauderdale.

In 1968 an expansion program was initiated to add a second floor to the Easterseals Center.

In 1982, an early intervention component was added, providing developmental intervention for children ages birth through two years of age at the center and in the child's home.

In 1984 The Board of Directors for the Easterseal Society created an Ad Hoc Building & Location Committee to determine the best site for a new Easterseals Center.

As a continuation of its pioneering efforts, ESSF established the Therapeutic Day Care Center for people with Alzheimer's disease in April 1986.

In 1989 Easterseals began providing in-home respite services to adults.

Prior to the passing of the ADA on July 26, 1990, Easterseals was a leading advocate for the American Disabilities Act (ADA) and actively lobbied in Washington and across the country for its adoption.

In 2000 Easterseals Society of Broward County changed its name to Easterseals Broward County to conform to National Easterseals Brand.

The expansion of the organization continues today, most recently with an additional facility that opened in Hialeah in August 2001 for therapeutic day care for people with Alzheimer's disease and other cognitive impairments.