In this episode of Strengthening Communities, hosts Mark and Mike sit down with former President & CEO Rob Reid to revisit the early years of Access Services and the mission that has guided the organization for five decades. 

Rob reflects on the pivotal shift in the late 1970s and early ’80s as Access Services helped lead the movement from institutional care to community-based living for people with developmental disabilities. From the impact of the landmark Halderman v. Pennhurst case to the challenges of opening the first group homes, Rob shares powerful first-hand stories from a time when there were no templates, just a committed team determined to do the right thing. 

Together, Mark, Mike, and Rob explore how person-centered support evolved, how the team worked to build trust within neighborhoods, and how innovative models emerged from listening deeply to people’s needs. They also reflect on the personal impact of this work: the relationships that shaped them, the life lessons learned, and the shared commitment to stepping into the gaps where support is needed most. 

This episode offers a meaningful, behind-the-scenes look at the values, stories, and mission that have defined Access Services for 50 years, and continue to strengthen communities today.