Staff photo by Fritz Busch MRCI, 2100 N. Broadway, New Ulm, celebrates its 65th birthday Friday afternoon. Enjoying birthday cake, front row, from left, Cassie Lienig, Craig Wieland, Amber Woitaszewski, Lucas Kjelshus, Gina Bases, and Jessie Welsh. Back row, Cindy Riewe, Jeannine Grosam, Lisa Kelley, Ronda Kletscher, Traci Windschitl and Melissa Hudson.

NEW ULM — MRCI-New Ulm turned 65 years old Friday.

Employees celebrated Friday afternoon by taking a break and eating some cake. The celebration wrapped up a week of events held at each MRCI location.

Events, including donating personal care items to the New Ulm Area Food Shelf, were meant not only to reflect on history but also outline a clear vision for the future as the company continues to break down barriers for individuals with disabilities.

“We are so appreciative of the business partners, family and staff that make our mission possible,” said MRCI CEO Brian Senshoof. “Working together with all of these stakeholders has allowed MRCI to stay relevant for years to come by focusing on the unique talents of those we serve in everything we do.”

MRCI, 2100 N. Broadway, a physical therapy organization operated by volunteers in response to the aftermath of the polio epidemic and World War II, began as Mankato Rehabilitation Center, Inc. in 1953. While locations and programs have changed over the last six decades, the company mission has not.

It strives to provide innovative and genuine opportunities for people with disabilities and disadvantages to participate in their community.

Today, the mission encompasses community employment training and placement, financial management services so clients can stay in their homes, choose their own caregivers and day services with activities to enrich lives.

The MRCI New Ulm facility offers a full range of programs and services including day training and habilitation, center-based employment and an extensive array of community-based employment opportunities.

In addition, MRCI New Ulm provides job placement services, case management, and a variety of recreational activities for all individuals regardless of ability.

For more information, visit mymrci.org.

fbusch@nujournal.com