EPI-HAB Phoenix, Inc. was founded in 1958 by a group of concerned citizens and business leaders who volunteered their time and efforts to provide meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with epilepsy. Government grants and donated funds helped start EPI-HAB, but the goal from the beginning was for the company to become self-supporting.
EPI-HAB’s Founders
The first President of EPI-HAB was Dr. John Green, and the first Vice-President was Charles Barrow. Both men were also instrumental in the formation of the Barrow Neurological Institute which opened a
year after EPI-HAB, in 1959. The Barrow Neurological Institute is one of the premiere destinations in the world for neurology and neurosurgery.
A young attorney, Fred Steiner of Snell and Wilmer, was also a member of that founding board. Fred authored EPI-HAB’s constitution and thereafter served as a board member and legal consultant for 55 years. Fred’s values and wisdom are a big part of EPI-HAB’s foundation and reason for its long-term success.
In his leisure time, Fred loved reading and writing poetry.
EPI-HAB Today
Today, EPI-HAB is a totally self-sufficient, not-for-profit company. While working primarily as a wood shop in its early years, the company has grown to assist customers with a wide range of affordable hand labor and other business solutions, like mailings, inspection and cleaning, custom packaging, storage and order fulfillment. Past and current projects include the assembly of medical devices that regulate I.V. flow rates, financial mailings, packet and kit assembly, and meter cleaning and packaging.
Additionally, due to the significant strides the health industry has made in the field of epilepsy, EPI-HAB expanded its mission “to provide meaningful employment for individuals with epilepsy and other challenges.” In doing so, EPI-HAB’s focus remains on the ability, not on the disability.
EPI-HAB has also maintained its relationship with the Barrow Institute, and through its success, EPI-HAB has been able to make several donations to the institute to advance the study of epilepsy.
To learn more about any of EPI-HAB’S services or career opportunities, call 602-254-7027 or complete our online inquiry form.
