The journey of West Bay began more than 30 years ago as a dream of many, who had a shared vision for an inclusive community offering every member equal opportunities for growth and success, regardless of their abilities. West Bay was incorporated in 1981 and shortly thereafter we acquired our first home in Cranston, RI. Within a year, three additional homes were opened and West Bay became an independent agency.

Over the next two decades, West Bay experienced an enormous amount of growth. By the start of the 1990’s our organization was operating 13 homes, one semi-independent living apartment and established a comprehensive Day Services program. Over the next ten years, West Bay continued to expand our services across six communities in Rhode Island, and by the year 2000, we were servicing 19 homes and six semi-independent apartments.

In March of 2010, West Bay faced one of our greatest challenges ever, when West Bay’s office in Warwick, was destroyed by Rhode Island’s historic floods. The organization lost hundreds of thousands of dollars in office furniture, electronic equipment, office supplies, physical therapy equipment, and Day Services space; as well its main office space for more than six months. Fortunately, through the generosity of the community and local businesses, and the spirit of our staff and individuals, West Bay was able to overcome the devastation and become even stronger.

In just three decades, the organization has grown from a small, non-profit organization to a large-scale, multi-service agency that helps hundreds of individuals at numerous locations all across Rhode Island.