On June 15, The Campbell Center (TCC) hosted a mural ribbon-cutting and open house celebration to showcase its transformed programing and revitalization of its building. The 68-year-old nonprofit, serving adults in Glendale with developmental and intellectual disabilities, recently transitioned away from a workshop model where it provided clients (called associates) with assembly and shipping jobs at its office. Now they associates are helped in getting jobs at local businesses and/or going out into the community to do activities of their choice.

The newly unveiled mural reflects these changes by depicting several of TCC’s associates across its windows facing San Fernando Road, with the phrase, “Building an inclusive community for all … to live, work and play… their way!”

The mural was created by Muralism, a nonprofit that beautifies buildings across Los Angeles County by engaging artists with developmental disabilities. At the moment the mural was unveiled many associates, with their families and friends, got emotional.

“I loved seeing everyone at The Campbell Center again,” said TCC associate Shant. “The mural is so cool, too. I hope people start to recognize me from it.”

During the event, community members and representatives of the offices of LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, Senator Anthony Portantino and Assemblymember Laura Friedman attended to present commemorations of the transformation of the building. In addition, Glendale City Councilmembers Paula Devine, Dan Brotman and Vrej Agajanian presented a commendation for TCC founder Jerry Campbell for his sustained service to The Campbell Center associates since 1954.

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, TCC invited attendees inside its offices and presented updates to its supported employment, community integration and residential programs. TCC showed photos of associates fully engaged in the community – either at new jobs in various restaurants and offices or enjoying activities at local recreation centers and gardens.

“With this mural, we let everybody who drives by our building know what The Campbell Center is all about: we’re building an inclusive community for all,” said TCC Executive Director Nancy Niebrugge. “We’re excited to continue our work in building that community.”

The Campbell Center is a nonprofit organization that partners with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, empowering them to successfully gain independence and attain their desired outcomes through opportunity and choice.

www.TheCampbell.Org