In 2002, Bay High Exceptional Education teacher Cynthia McCauley was concerned about her students who were graduating from high school at age 22, but faced limited opportunities in the world that awaited them. Too many were unemployed, and their families often lacked the funding to enroll in a program that would provide the structure, safety, and opportunities they needed. Unwilling to let their talents be lost, McCauley invited the graduates to return to Bay High as classroom volunteers and custodial assistants. With support from Americorps VISTA, this small band of enthusiastic volunteers became a valuable asset to Bay District Schools. Parents who had understandable concerns about leaving their young adults alone while they worked were relieved that not only would their sons and daughters be safe, but they would be engaged in meaningful activities. And the volunteers developed a new sense of pride in themselves and a commitment to community service!

Over the next two decades, this simple yet life-altering program grew to Chautauqua Services Inc.  In addition to the original adult volunteer program, it now includes a unique and internationally applauded charter school and an Arc program dedicated to empowering all individuals with disabilites to take their place in the community and the world. Chautauqua and its members are changing the world from a little yellow house on Magnolia Avenue!