By LAURA JAMESON ljameson@lockhaven.com

LOCK HAVEN - The Infant Development Program is celebrating 50 years in Clinton County.

The board of commissioners, on Thursday, recognized the organization's impact through a proclamation.

"For 50 years the Infant Development Program has been a beacon of hope and support in Clinton County, providing high quality early intervention programs," Commissioner Angela Harding read from the proclamation.

Those services include speech, occupational and physical therapies along with special instruction and family support.

The Infant Development Program, with a facility at 980 E. Water St., Lock Haven, was created as an inclusive, integrated nurturing environment that empowers children with developmental delays and disabilities to their full potential while also equipping their families with tools and knowledge along the way.

"The dedicated staff and volunteers have shown unwavering commitment and compassion that positively impacted countless families and strengthened the collaboration with local schools, healthcare providers and community organizations," the proclamation continues.

The board extended its gratitude to IDP for its continued efforts in the county.

IDP Executive Director Lisa Bangson thanked the board for its support.

"We have been serving the community for 50 years. Annually we provide services to over 300 families in Clinton County," Bangson said.

"It is an honor for us to serve the community. We have a dedicated staff that go over and above," she continued.

She further noted IDP's mission wouldn't be complete without support from the community.

"For 50 years we have been blessed with support from all foundations and organizations and individuals… the government and the courts," she said. "We couldn't do that and be here for as long as we have, and touch as many lives as we have, without that support."

You can learn even more about the Infant Development Program by visiting www.idpkids.org/.

For more local news visit the Lock Haven Express.