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.
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
Jandi Adams
Marlene Blackford
Tom Gibbins
Pete Kopko
Kevin Tobin
Internal Team Members
Norman Wengerd
CEO, GentleBrook & GentleBrook Homes
James Miller
Executive Vice President
Ric Brown
Vice President, Business & Fund Development
Peter Lienert
Vice President, Human Resources & Administrative Services
Tiffany Milhoan
Vice President Finance
John Diller
IT Manager
Francie Kell
Director of Marketing & Communications
Anita Sharp
Administrator, Hartville Meadows
Leslie Zimmerman
Administrator, Lafayette Meadows
Tana Fischer
Executive Director/Director of Nursing, The HomeStead