History

Prior to Pony Bird’s founding in 1977, no organization existed to provide independence and opportunity for non-ambulatory persons in the Jefferson County area. The next year, Jefferson County established the Developmental Disabilities Resource Board, which led to the creation of Exceptional Ones, Inc. This organization provided a host of programs and opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Eventually, Exceptional Ones, Inc. became NextStep for Life. For more than 40 years, Pony Bird and NextStep for Life have provided quality-driven services for individuals with intellectual, physical, developmental, and other disabilities. In our rich histories, we have had a strong collaborative partnership and relationship in our industry.