Barber National Institute

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Our Story

  • Imagine a place where love isn't defined by blood, but by the people who choose to stand by you. For many individuals living with disabilities, home isn't a childhood house or a relative's embrace - it's the place they've built with caregivers and housemates who have become their family.


At Barber National Institute, we know that a safe and welcoming home is the foundation for a thriving life. For our community group home residents, these foundations are more than just walls - they are the bedrock of comfort, independence, and belonging.

Across Pennsylvania, 303 adults live in 93 community group homes - 55 homes in Erie County. Residents range in age from 19 to 95 and many have complex medical and behavioral needs that require specialized care, consistency, and a familiar environment to thrive.

Aging in place means investing in accessible kitchens and bathrooms, lift systems, floor plan modifications and other physical adaptations to ensure they can remain safe and comfortable in their home.

But, as with any home, time brings the natural need for updates.

Most of Barber National Institute's housing stock was purchased more than 25 years ago. Many of our homes require costly renovations to their living spaces. Barber National Institute is committed to helping our adults age in place with dignity, but the reality is that public funding falls short of what's needed.

Our Strengthening Foundations campaign will renovate community group homes throughout PA to improve safety, accessibility, and comfort. With your help, we can make these upgrades possible:

  • Widened doorways and accessible kitchens and bathrooms aren't cosmetic upgrades; they are necessities for individuals who rely on wheelchairs and mobility aids
  • Lift systems and adaptive equipment aren't conveniences; they are lifelines that prevent injury and ensure direct support professionals can provide the best support possible.

This $1M project is an enormous financial burden and we can't do it alone. Please consider making a gift to Barber National Institute on Erie Gives Day to help us strengthen these foundations.