Lifehouse was incorporated in Marin County in 1954 by a group of parents who wanted an educational program for their children with developmental disabilities. At that time there were no special education programs and children with special needs were at a loss for receiving educational services that met their unique requirements. With the help of visionary leaders at the Marin County Office of Education, the parents created a preschool, and later a kindergarten that eventually grew into an excellent special education program managed by the Marin County Office of Education. As long-time Lifehouse clients began to reach adulthood, our programs evolved to serve the needs of adults with developmental disabilities. Some of our clients have been with us since pre-school!
Historical Timeline
| 1954 | Lifehouse (MARC) is founded. |
| 1956 | Lifehouse opens first special education program in Marin. |
| 1968 | Employment program gains independence from Lifehouse to become Marin Community Workshop, now known as NBI North Bay Industries. |
| 1969 | Big R, an out-of-home respite program, opens. |
| 1970 | First of eight group homes is opened. |
| 1972 | Lifehouse hires first Executive Director through grant. |
| 1973 | Joint venture of Lifehouse and ARC-SF starts Thrift Town household pick-up program. |
| 1975 | First group home for severely physically and developmentally disabled adults opens. |
| 1981 | Community Living Program is initiated. First independent living home opens in San Anselmo. Twelve clients move to Del Ganado apartment complex built especially for individuals with developmental disabilities. |
| 1990 | First Great Chefs of Marin fundraiser is held. |
| 1991 | Lifehouse starts Marin Coalition to develop recreational activities for clients in the community. |
| 1992 | Hamilton and Nova houses open, partially funded through HUD. |
| 1993 | Community-wide needs survey conducted. |
| 1994 | Model Supported Living Program opens. |
| 1999 | Community living services started in Sonoma County. |
| 2002 | Lifehouse starts Housing Coalition to promote more affordable housing for people with developmental disabilities. |
| 2003 | New Supported Living Program opens for Seniors. Name changes to Lifehouse. |
| 2006 | Board of Directors and management complete Strategic Plan – New focus on Autism and Teens New On-Site Supported Living Program opens at Hamilton Meadows. |
| 2007 | Lifehouse organizes Marin Autism Collaborative. Lifehouse and the Marin Coalition develop Teen Recreation Program. |
| 2010 | 20th Anniversary of Great Chefs & Wineries fundraiser. |