What We Are
The Harmony Center, Inc. is a private non-profit residential and specialized services agency dedicated to providing services for the developmentally disabled, adjudicated, mentally and medically ill, abused and neglected citizens. We are the oldest and largest black-owned/founded agency in the state of Louisiana.
Our History
The Harmony Center Incorporated was established in 1977 and was first licensed on January 15, 1978, as one group home, “Harmony I,” by the State Department of Children and Family Services. Harmony Center, Inc. provided 24-hour services to male children aged 12 to 18 years. Subsequent to that facility was set up in a three-year period, and two additional homes were established. They were named Harmony II and Harmony III. At that time, children and teens were separated. Harmony Center, Inc. was identified for 12 foster children. Harmony II provided services to 12 intellectually disabled youth, 12-18 years, and Harmony III provided services to 12 adjudicated youth.
During that time, staff provided 24-hour supervision and training to all of the youth. All of the Direct Care Staff were males. From late ’85 to ‘86, seven “Gary W” residential programs were established, and five new community homes for intellectually disabled adults were established. Between 1987 and 1995, the staff grew greatly. The agency’s administrative office moved to a much larger building. In addition, facilities were opened in Lafayette, New Orleans, Pineville, and Tangipahoa parishes, and three additional facilities in Baton Rouge.
In January 1999, Harmony opened two transitional living services programs. They provide housing and training for men who are mentally ill.
In 2014, Harmony combined the work training program Maxima Industries with its residential program. This enabled the agency to offer a continuum of care for developmentally disabled adults. At the same time, children and youth continue to receive community-based services for academics, and transitional residents enjoy opportunity-based work experiences and education.
The Harmony Center, Inc., in its operation from 1978 to the present, has served thousands of residents. It has also employed thousands of staff.
We have provided a home, training, and a variety of services to:
- Foster children
- Adjudicated youth
- Adults who are intellectually disabled
- Mentally ill men
Harmony employs:
- Direct care staff
- Managers
- Social workers
- Counselors
- Accountants
- Clerical support staff
- Psychologists
- Psychiatrists
- Dieticians
- Administrators
- Teachers
- Maintenance Staff
- Physicians
- Dentist
These professionals dedicate their lives to providing holistic, compassionate care to the people we serve. They encourage you to break free from the mental prison of your disabilities to live the life you deserve. We can make that possible!
Let us help you find a home. For more information, contact us at 225-383-9139 to schedule a pre-placement interview.