Polk Center Movie

Polk Center More Than A Century of Care

The history of the care of people with development disabilities who reside in state facilities in the United States.

Documentary Produced and Directed by Mary Sauer M.Ed.

This unique film presents an objective overview of social attitudes, legislation, medical advances and economic factors that shaped the evolution of residential care for people who are developmentally disable in the Unite States. Focusing on the history of Polk Center, Polk, PA Pennsylvania’s oldest and largest Commonwealth facility for people who are Developmentally Disabled. the film identifies factors that were common to residential facilities across United States and provide a valuable perspective on how society has come to develop current standards of care. this presentation is a powerful teaching tool for those who are engaged in study or careers in the human services field. Included are numerous historic photographs, archival film footage and interviews with former Polk Center staff and individuals.

Video is running time of 63 mins

Video Production by:

Keepsake Video Production