Barber National Institute

Barber National Institute, located in Girard, PA, is a renowned organization dedicated to providing comprehensive services and support for individuals with intellectual disabilities and behavioral health needs. With a rich history spanning over 70 years, Barber National Institute offers a wide range of programs and resources for children, adults, and families, including residential services, community group homes, behavioral health services, and educational programs. Committed to empowering individuals and promoting inclusion, Barber National Institute strives to enhance the lives of those they serve through effective instruction, employment services, and community participation supports. Their state-of-the-art facilities, such as the Elizabeth Lee Black School and the community pool with a movable floor, exemplify their dedication to providing exceptional care and opportunities for growth. With a mission rooted in compassion and a focus on individualized support, Barber National Institute continues to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families.Generated from the website

Tracy Cowles owns and operates Cowles Enterprises, Next Step's Child Enrichment Center, and Next Step Therapy, Inc Tracy was born in Venango County, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Cranberry High School. She received her Master's Degree in Speech Language Pathology from Clarion University of PA in 1991. Tracy has lived and worked in Pittsburgh, PA and Morgantown, WV. Over the years she provided Speech Therapy for Nursing Homes, Visiting Nurse Agencies, Hospitals, and Early Intervention programs. She was a Clinical Supervisor for West Virginia School of Medicine for two years. Tracy opened Next Step Therapy, Inc in 2006 in an attempt to provide more pediatric therapy services to the rural Venango County and surrounding areas. In addition to serving as Administrator of the above companies, supervising therapists and contracts, Tracy has been a part-time instructor in the Communication Science Disorders department of Clarion University of PA. She taught speech and language classes to Speech Pathology and Education majors. Tracy lives in Franklin, PA with her two sons, Noah and Eli. Tracy is involved in Scouting, Little League and PTO through her children. For fun, Tracy enjoys reading novels, camping, and singing Karaoke. Tracy considers it a privilege to work with the incredible staff that has been created at this company, and feels that it is her mission in life to ensure that rural Pennsylvania children receive the same services that are usually only available in bigger cities.