Vector Rehabilitation

Vector was established and incorporated in 1979 as Vector Health Programs, Inc. by Dr Knapp and Karen Angel, the original Executive Director. It was in that year that 501(c) (3) federal exemption was granted to Vector to operate as a public benefit corporation. During the early years of the organization, the primary purposes were: to promote the ed... ucation of the public and medical professional; to sponsor research, basic and clinical, designed to advance medical knowledge; improve delivery of health care and to further the rehabilitation of the physically and functionally challenged with the goal of returning them to an active and productive place in society. In the 1980's and early 1990's, the North Coast's economy was based primarily on the timber and fishing industries. Due the unfortunate number of accidents that affected the upper extremities, Vector was then known as the regional hand center. It also developed a reputation for expertise in arthritis, providing both clinical rehabilitation and education to not only those afflicted by the disease, but also community health care providers. Finally, Vector, along with Dr. Wheeler began the Craniofacial Anomalies Program. Working with other local physicians, and health care providers, the Craniofacial Anomalies Program provided assistance to children born with cleft palate and cleft lip on the North Coast. It is the only program of its kind north of San Francisco. In 2006, the organization changed its corporate name to Vector Rehabilitation, Inc., but continues as a 501 (c) (3), community benefit organization. Vector continues to specialize in hand therapy, custom splinting and the craniofacial program. With the economic shift on the North Coast over the last several years, our fishing and timber industries are all but gone. Our work with local businesses is now focused on early intervention, work site evaluations and ergonomic studies. Today, some things have changed, but many of the unique qualities of Vector remain the same. Our mission and purpose has ...Read More