Barber National Institute

We believe in a world where people of all abilities belong and reach their full potential. Our story began with an educator’s unwavering belief – that every child deserves the chance to learn, grow, and belong. In 1952, our founder, Dr. Gertrude A. Barber, opened a small school for children with intellectual disabilities, a bold act of love at a time when few believed in their potential. What started as a single classroom has grown into a statewide organization serving thousands of children and adults with intellectual disabilities, autism, and behavioral health challenges – and the families and professionals who support them.