Hopewell School began from an idea in March of 1964. Mrs. Russell Ashcraft of Warsaw and Mrs. James Gauerke of Coshocton were mothers of two mentally challenged children. These two women were determined to do something because they knew that their children had the capacity to learn. Mrs. Ashcraft managed to locate 20 mentally challenged children in the county and armed with their names took them to Dave Tompkins who was the executive secretary of the Child Welfare Department. Mr. Tompkins then gathered more information, located facilities and tested the children. But most importantly, Mr. Tompkins, through his vision and advocacy, convinced the county commissioners to advance the money to begin Hopewell School.

Hopewell School opened in September of 1965 at the Coshocton Presbyterian Church in two rented rooms with two teachers, two aides and 23 students. A lunch program was not provided so sack lunches were brought from home. Drivers using their own private vehicles provided transportation all over the county. At that time services were not offered for Early Intervention, Pre-School, or any therapies.

In 1968 a levy was put on the ballot to take the Hopewell Program from under the Children Services’ Board and make it stand on its own. Hopewell also hoped to purchase a bus and hired a home trainer with this levy.

A music program was established in 1969 along with a hot lunch program. The Salvation Army donated the use of their gymnasium for a physical education program. By 1971 the school had 25 pupils, 3 classrooms, 3 teachers, 2 aides, 3 buses and four drivers. One driver still used a private vehicle. Plans were being made to include a preschool class, speech therapy and another bus. In 1973 Hopewell School had a speech therapist and it would be until 1987 before Hopewell School would have a Physical Therapist and Occupational Therapist.

In 1984 thanks to the voters of Coshocton County, the State Legislature and the dedication of Representative James Ross, the program moved into the current facility located at 23720 Airport Road. In this building, Hopewell School currently houses Hopewell School, Coshocton Board of MRDD Administrative Offices, Early Intervention, Service and Support and Transportation.

Hopewell Industries began in 1965 and by August of 1971 was in operation in a room rented from Tom Sutton on Walnut Street with 7 employees and two staff members. By September of 1972 the number of employees had grown to 14. In August of 1976 the Industries had moved into a larger facility at the County Services Building.

In 1985 with funds left from the building of Hopewell School, the workshop moved into its current location at the corner of Seventh and Chestnut Streets. By 1993 the new addition to the workshop was completed. Hopewell Industries offers many services including lawn care, janitorial, sign engraving, wood shop, day habilitation services, job training, skill development and community employment. Hopewell Industries currently serves 192 individuals.