13/ Changing an Institution "That Can't Be Changed" Through a Staff Retraining Intervention

This is the report of an organization development project which took place over four years at a large state center for the mentally retarded and handicapped. The hospital had a long history of staff difficulties, poor community image, and a series of problems both with staff and clients. The prime intervention was a consultant supervising 10 diversified staff who were selected to conduct the organizational change program. Outcomes of changes over four years are presented with positive outcomes not only in the intervention program, but even despite a serious negative incident and the planned closing of the hospital. The early intervention made possible the collaboration and success at a later time despite severe problems in layoffs and staff morale.