In February of 1972 MCDS was known as Hope Preschool for the Handicapped, with a ½ day program for 6 students (children) in a donated room at the First United Methodist church.

In the fall of 1974, services extended to include disabled adults and moved to 609 West Kansas where the first workshop was established. The workshop program was to subcontract with local industries for certain types of work. The first initial contract was with Roll-Deck of McPherson making hinges for the company’s line of pop-up campers.

By 1975 MCDS had created a corporation, developed a Board of Directors, established a Vocational Training Unit  (McPherson Industries), and planned for an expansion to include residential services.

The first residential facility, Mac House, opened its doors with one client in 1976. In 1980, Mac House received licensure as an Intermediate Care Facility – the first small ICF/MR facility in the state of Kansas.

Between 1975 and 1980, MCDS had expanded services by 600%. Client load in 1980 fluctuated between 75-100 clients served by a staff of 30.

Another development at McPherson Industries during 1982 was the receipt of their first federal contract to supply 20,000 bed frames to Leavenworth prison. With this new contract and other projects, McPherson Industries employed 40 clients.

By 1984, between 50 and 60% of Hope Preschool Graduates were moving into regular Kindergarten classes.

In 1988, MCDS discontinued operation of Special Education services; the operation was turned over to the Special Education Cooperative of McPherson county.

Since 1988, we have made many changes: moved to new facilities, acquired three more ICF facilities, eight more residential sites and added Cartridge King to the family.

Over the years, MCDS has never wavered from its true goal to advocate the wellness, independence, and respect that the MR/DD population so readily deserves.

Multi Community Diversified Services Inc, is a private non-profit 501(c)3 tax exempt corporation. Donations are greatly appreciated and are fully tax deductible.