Our History

Bridgeway was formed October 1, 1993 by the merger of McDonough County Rehabilitation Center (MCRC) and Spoon River Incorporated (SRI) and its affiliate corporations, Harrington Family Services and Spoon River Center. In July, 1998 a vocational program for disabled persons in eastern Iowa was added to our service array and in October 1999, further Bridgeway expansion in Iowa occured with the official transfer of services previously provided by River Center. These human service corporations, having served west-central Illinois and eastern Iowa for decades, have joined together to continue to meet the ever-growing needs and challenges of providing community-based health and human services. These services are designed to assist and empower people in maximizing their potential for personal development and growth in all areas of human functioning.

Bridgeway will serve any person who can benefit from its array of services without regard to disability, dependent status, race, color, national origin or age.

Bridgeway is a CARF accredited organization, funded in part through contributions from the United Way, United Fund and Community Chest.

Illinois Growth - IGE

In December 2010, IGE became an affiliate of the Bridgeway companies. This partnership resulted in a synergy creating a much more dynamic organization with multiple capabilities and expanded employment opportunities for persons with disabilities and veterans. The partnership has created an organization with over 40 locations in Illinois and Iowa employing over 1,000 individuals and serving over 9,000 persons with disabilities.

The Bridgeway companies including IGE have created a wide array of employment opportunities to meet a diverse set of needs for both businesses and employees. The scope of employment and training opportunities runs the gamut from simple to high tech creating the opportunity for individuals to meet their maximum potential.