Disabled Persons Action Organization (DPAO) was started in 1974 and fully incorporated in 1976. Joseph L. Rich, an anchor for WWNY Radio and TV at that time, began the not-for-profit organization part time from his home. DPAO is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization whose mission is to provide quality and effective individualized services for developmentally disabled children and adults in Jefferson and Lewis Counties. The services are primarily geared toward helping families cope with the stress of caring for their disabled loved ones. DPAO currently services over 600 children, adults, and their families and is the primary provider of overnight and hourly respite services in the region, offering the services to families with developmentally disabled individuals residing at home.