About Us

Wendell Foster, a private 501(c)(3) non-profit, is a multi-service agency located in the heart of Owensboro, Kentucky. Each year, Wendell Foster serves over 2,000 people across 34 counties in Western Kentucky and Southern Indiana. Of these, about 75% utilize Medicaid as their payment source. Our services are known for supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, however, we are much more of a comprehensive service provider capable of supporting an array of individuals in need by offering outpatient therapy, residential living, community living, an assistive technology lending library, transportation services, and various support programs. 

With over 350 “Difference Makers” on staff, Wendell Foster takes its impact as an economic driver in the region seriously. In 2021, Wendell Foster was voted the “Best Place to Work” Gold Winner in the Best of Owensboro Living Awards. Wendell Foster’s core values reflect the selfless lifestyle of its founders, Edith and Wendell Foster. 

In 1937, Edith and Wendell Foster’s daughter, Louise, was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at the age of 5 months old. Because of Louise, the Fosters committed their lives and opened their home to support children with developmental disabilities. The Fosters provided a residential option to children of seven local families and offered their home as a meeting place while children received therapy in the Fosters’ backyard. 

In 1947, a volunteer board of directors incorporated the agency, adopted a charter and by-laws, and officially founded the organization known today as “Wendell Foster.” This year, Wendell Foster celebrates its 75th year of continuous operation. Wendell Foster has evolved into a community-based organization providing services on-site, in people’s homes, in the area school systems, and in community settings.

Our services include:

Other support programs include:

Please take a few minutes to learn about our services and feel free to contact us with any questions.