This documentary, directed by Mary Julia Sauer M.Ed is a vital resource for educators, students, policy makers, researchers, and caregivers involved in the field of developmentally disabled and for all historians.
This unique film presents an objective overview of social attitudes, legislation, medical advances and economic factors that shaped the evolution of residential care for people who are developmentally disabled in the United States. Focusing on the history of Polk Center, Polk, PA, a former Commonwealth of PA residential facility for people who are developmentally disabled. The film identifies factors that were common to residential facilities across the United States and provides a valuable perspective on how society has come to develop current standards of care. This presentation is a powerful teaching tool for those who are engaged in study or careers in the human services fields. Included are numerous historic photographs, archival film footage and interviews with former Polk Center staff and individuals.
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