History
Helping People Succeed
Building Successful Families and Futures – One Life at a Time!
Over the decades, the organization has undergone several name changes. Initially founded as the Pioneer Occupational Center for the Handicapped in 1964, it became the Tri County Rehabilitation Center in 1975, followed by Tri County TEC (Training, Employment, Community) in 1984. In 2004, the organization adopted the name Helping People Succeed, reflecting its mission to create lasting change and opportunity for individuals of all abilities.
Helping People Succeed, Inc. was founded in 1964 by a dedicated group of parents who were driven by the desire to create a brighter future for their children with disabilities. These parents saw the need for better opportunities and support for their sons and daughters, which led them to establish an organization that would help them realize their potential.
The organization was initially located at an old elementary school in Port Salerno, Florida, and began its work with 13 clients and 3 employees. By 1975, the organization had grown significantly, with 39 clients engaged in contract work with prestigious companies such as IBM, Grumman Aerospace, and other local businesses. This marked the beginning of a long history of providing opportunities for individuals with disabilities to engage in meaningful work.
In 1977, Helping People Succeed hired Suzy Hutcheson, who became the organization’s CEO and played a key role in its development and expansion. During this time, the primary source of funding came from community-driven events such as bingo and flea markets, which helped support the organization's programs and services.
The early 1980s saw a significant shift in the organization's approach. In 1978, Helping People Succeed expanded its services to include early intervention programs for infants and toddlers with diagnosed conditions, marking the beginning of the Baby Steps program. Initially serving just 12 infants, this program has grown over the years to provide vital services to young children and their caregivers.
In 1984, the organization made a pivotal change in its focus, shifting from sheltered workshops to community-based employment opportunities. This transition was groundbreaking, as Helping People Succeed became one of the first organizations to provide adults with significant disabilities the opportunity to gain fully integrated, competitive employment. This move helped to break down barriers and provide a path toward independence for many individuals.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Helping People Succeed continued to expand its services. In 1988, the Children's Services Council of Martin County was established, followed by the creation of the Children's Services Council of St. Lucie County in 1990. Both councils provided funding that enabled the organization to broaden its children's services in the region. In the 1990s, Helping People Succeed also began providing mental health services to children and secured a contract with the State of Florida for the Healthy Families program, aimed at supporting families at risk for abuse and neglect.
In 2007, the Healthy Families program expanded to Okeechobee County, further extending the organization's reach and impact.
In 2017, Helping People Succeed made a significant move to its new, permanent location at 1601 Braille Place in Jensen Beach, which became known as its “forever home.” In 2024, the street name was changed to Success Drive, a fitting tribute to the organization’s commitment to transforming lives and building brighter futures for those it serves.
In 2024 the long time CEO Suzy Hutcheson retired after 50 years leading growth and expansion. Kara Stimpson became CEO and, with a dedicated Board of Directors, is focused on further expansion to meet the needs of the everchanging communities we serve.
Today, Helping People Succeed, Inc. is a well-established organization with over 160 dedicated staff members. It serves over 8,000 people annually across four counties, with a budget exceeding $8 million. The organization operates 4 departments: Successful Futures supporting adults and teens with disabilities; Baby Steps providing programs for infants, toddlers, preschoolers and their caregivers; Healthy Families, a child abuse prevention program; and Behavioral Health offering mental health and case management services to youth and adults.
The organization's core mission remains unchanged: to transform lives by realizing potential, creating hope, and building futures through education, counseling, training, and employment.