About GentleBrook
GentleBrook is a not-for-profit social purpose enterprise with a vision of connecting people and community through services and business opportunities.
Lead a fulfilling life.
Collectively creating a more vibrant community for everyone.
Founded on the principle that every individual deserves to lead a fulfilling life, GentleBrook's diverse programs serve as vital platforms for personal growth, learning, and community integration. We believe that by nurturing individual abilities and fostering inclusive environments, we can collectively create a more compassionate and vibrant community for everyone.
Founded in 1974 to provide a home for individuals with disabilities.
GentleBrook was founded in 1974 by Glen and Lois Yoder, along with a caring and compassionate group of church and community leaders, to provide a home for individuals with developmental disabilities. Hartville Homes — now called Hartville Meadows — the first facility, opened in 1982 as a 32-bed residential home.
Today, GentleBrook provides services and supports that span the lifetime needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and older adults. These services and supports include residential options, adult day programs, support services, vocational training and recreational programs.
By focusing on potential and not limitations, we help each client to have a fulfilling life, rich with opportunities.
GentleBrook is licensed by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities and certified by the Ohio Department of Health to participate in the Medicaid Program.

1974
GentleBrook was Formed
Glen & Lois Yoder, along w/ a group of caring and compassionate individuals, formed GentleBrook as an Ohio non-profit to serve individuals w/ developmental and physical disabilities
1981
Hartville Meadows
Opened Hartville Meadows
2000
GentleBrook Acquires 5 Facilities
GentleBrook acquires 5 facilities/homes in West Lafayette, collectively known as Lafayette Meadows
2017
Senior Services Addition
We move into providing senior services w/ the opening of The HomeStead, our assisted living + memory care facility
2022
GentleBrook Expansion
Expanded I/DD services into Holmes County
2022
The Villas at GentleBrook
Opened The Villas at GentleBrook, our independent senior living community for adults 55+
2023
Menlo Park Home
Opened Menlo Park Home
2024
Glen & Lois Homes
Opened Glen & Lois Homes
2026
HomeStead of Coshocton
HomeStead of Coshocton is opened
All human life is a sacred gift and most fulfilled in community with others.
The GentleBrook Mission
GentleBrook’s primary objective is to connect people and community. At GentleBrook, we strive to provide the highest quality care and support to individuals with developmental disabilities and older adults. Our decisions are made on the basis of what will contribute most to the well-being of our clients, so that the individuals we serve may realize their full potential and live as a contributing member of their community.

Meet the Team
Board of Trustees
Ben Sommers
President
Susan Rodgers
Vice President
Marlene Blackford
Henry Miles
Tom Gibbins
Kevin Tobin
Dee Stocker
Internal Team Members
James Miller
CEO, GentleBrook & GentleBrook Homes
Peter Lienert
Vice President, Human Resources & Administrative Services
Tiffany Milhoan
Vice President Finance
John Diller
IT Manager
Francie Kell
Director of Marketing & Communications
Lisa Ackerman
Administrator, Hartville Meadows
Leslie Zimmerman
Administrator, Lafayette Meadows
Natalie Johnson
Executive Director, The HomeStead of Hartville
Tana Fischer
Executive Director, The HomeStead of Coshocton
Macalia Girard
Director of Adult Day Services - Stark County
Luella Byler
Director of Adult Day Services - Holmes County