History

In the mid-1970’s in the Northern Hills of South Dakota there were few options for adults with developmental disabilities. Because of this, a group of families came together with the desire of starting a community in Spearfish to provide residential and work opportunities for people who might otherwise be living in an institution. In 1976, Northern Hills Training Center was founded as a community based option for supported living and working in the Black Hills. Four of the original six people supported at NHTC are still living in Spearfish. Three of those original six have jobs, one is in a Retirement Program, and two have moved away.

The first residential services were based in a 4 bedroom house at 1005 Canyon Street. Six months later the first workshop was started in the Snapper's Club at the City Campground. By that time there were already between 15 and 20 people receiving support from NHTC. Over the next three decades, steady demand for the services offered by NHTC has increased the number of people being supported, and the variety of options for living and working that are available. The first job placement in a community business was made in 1976. Since that time, many people have achieved employment, both individually and as part of small crews. In 1992, NHTC opened the Job Shop, working closely with Rehabilitation Services to help people with a variety of disabilities find and gain employment.

In addition to the home at 1005 Canyon, NHTC has built houses at 1015 Canyon and 34th Street. Apartments have been built on Ryan Road and on Hill Street. Additionally, NHTC supports people in their own homes in Spearfish, Belle Fourche, Sturgis, Bison, and Faith. In 2003 the administrative offices of NHTC moved from the eastern edge of Spearfish, their home for nearly 20 years, into new offices on Harvard Street. As of 2006, NHTC supports over 120 people in a variety of living and working environments.