Tanager Place

Since 1879, Tanager Place has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of society. The one constant has been our commitment to the well-being of children.

• In 1879, Ms. Eleanor Lund founded the “The Industrial School” to provide for the many children who were unable to attend school because their families could not provide decent clothing or adequate food let alone a home environment that supported the educational needs of children.
• By 1882 Ms. Lund found herself caring for a growing number of homeless babies awaiting adoption and older children for whom adoption was less likely. A building was moved onto the grounds adjacent to the school.
• In 1888 the name was changed to The Home for the Friendless, a common name for orphanages.
• Camp Good Health, which offered a camp experience for disadvantaged children, was established in 1926.
• In 1940, The Home for the Friendless was renamed The Children’s Home of Cedar Rapids.
• By the late 1950’s orphanages were becoming obsolete, but there were still children who needed care. The agency turned its full attention to the care and treatment of emotionally disturbed children.
• In 1961, The Children’s Home of Cedar Rapids became licensed as Cedar Rapids’ first and only Residential Treatment Facility.
• In 1990, The Children’s Home of Cedar Rapids changed its name to Tanager Place.
• Today, Tanager Place serves some of Iowa’s most vulnerable children.
• Today, Tanager Place Mental Health Clinic offers outpatient child psychiatry, psychology and therapy to the community.
• Today, Tanager Place Community Based staff directly impact 600 families daily.
• Today, the inpatient program treats 68 children ages 5-17 dealing with serious emotional issues.
• Today, Camp Tanager continues to serve 600 who are economically disadvantaged or suffering from diabetes or hemophilia.

Our Mission

To successfully serve children and families challenged by social and psychological needs.

Click here for the 2011 Annual Report