Our Background

Progress was founded by the Goodman and Powelson families as they sought independent living arrangements for their young adult sons.

In 1971, Billy Goodman and Tommy Powelson were two young men in their mid- twenties, still living at home with their families. Although Billy and Tommy had developmental disabilities, they wanted "their own place." They longed to live independently the community. All they wanted was the opportunity to try to fulfill their dreams and achieve their goals.

But in the 70's, their options for any sort of adult, independent living arrangement were very limited. The Goodman and Powelson parents recognized that their sons' desires could not be accomplished living in a state institution. So they bought a house for Billy and Tommy to share, and hired support staff. In doing so they started what has since become one of the largest providers of residential supports to adults with developmental disabilities in Middle Tennessee.

Progress soon evolved and expanded the range of services offered. 1985 saw the establishment of a sheltered workshop under the name Tennessee Diversified Industries (TDI). Over time, Progress discontinued the sheltered workshop program and began to utilize available space for day services, including supported employment and community-based day supports.

Having identified a shortfall of supports available to adults with developmental disabilities in Cheatham County, Tennessee, Progress opened an office in Ashland City in 1997, offering supported living and day service options to individuals who might prefer to live in a rural environment.

Today, more that 35 years after helping two young men realize their dream, Progress is considered to be a leader in Tennessee with an excellent reputation for providing a range of quality supports.