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B U S I N E S S P RO F I L E S 48 S i n c e 1 9 7 7, J o h n F. M u r p h y H o m e s , I n c . h a s been a cornerstone in Maine's efforts to support individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Headquartered in Auburn, JFM has grown from a single residence to a comprehensive network of services that empower individuals across their lifespan. e roots of JFM trace back to 1954 when John F. Murphy, a member of the Lewiston Board of Finance, advocated for the use of the Garcelon School as an educational facility for individuals with developmental disabilities. is initiative laid the groundwork for future services in the region. Following Mr. Murphy's pass- ing in 1976, community leaders established the John F. Murphy Foundation for the Mentally Retarded Inc. in 1977 to honor his legacy. Starting with a modest $100 bank account, the organization opened its first home for six adults. Over the decades, JFM expanded its reach, now providing its continuum of services across 50 loca- tions throughout the Greater Lewiston-Auburn area and beyond. To achieve its commitment to make lives better for children and adults with differing abilities, JFM offers a continuum of services designed to meet the diverse needs of individuals with IDD and ASD. ese include Residential Services, Community Day Programs, Employment and Work Support Services and the Margaret Murphy Centers for Children. Margaret Murphy Centers for Children In 2000, the Margaret Murphy Centers for Children (named after John Murphy's wife, who served as the first treasurer on JFM's board of directors) were founded as a special purpose private school, providing high-quality educational and clinical services to children from birth to age 22 who require specialized educational and behavioral supports that may not be available in traditional school settings. e seven original schools, located in Lewiston, Auburn, Randolph and Saco, employ and collaborate with professionals who hold a range of specialized qualifications or licenses relevant to both education and clinical treatment of students with diagnoses such as IDD, ASD, Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder, anxiety, or significant behavioral challenges. " Prior to 2000, many children with autism and signif icant behavioral need were being placed in out of state programs, or, perhaps worse, simply not able to access educational services. " — Michelle Hathaway, Senior Director The center's best-practices approach incorporates current research and technology, paired with a strong commitment to an individualized, child-focused and strengths-based philosophy of intervention. Every child who attends MMCC is unique, and their experiences are designed to reflect their vast and varied needs. e organization also recognizes the span of developmental need and is committed to supporting students through its Early Intervention Programs, Elementary School Programs and within its Middle Margaret Murphy Centers for Children Making the difference in the lives of children and young adults P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F J O H N F. M U R P H Y H O M E S Above: The MMCC annual Prom for students, staff and their families Right above: Students at MMCC run a coffee and cocoa cart. This serves as a pre-vocational and social skills activity. Right below: During their "Summer Blast" students created tie-dyed t-shirts to wear on the many summer excursions planned for 2026! P H O T O S B Y S T A C E Y G R O N D I N