ADNet was organized at the end of 2002 after previous advocacy programs for disabilities and mental illness closed.  The following are some important milestones on the journey. 

• Fall 2002:  Ad hoc committee meets to consider the future of Mennonite advocacy ministries for disabilities and mental illness.  Representatives meet with various church agencies.
• December 2002:  Reference Council called together; affirms the ad hoc committee seeking to incorporate Anabaptist Disabilities Network.
• April 30, 2003:  Articles of Incorporation filed in the state of Indiana are accepted with a temporary Board of Indiana residents.
• August 7, 2003: ADNet was recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation. This means that contributions to ADNet are tax deductible for U. S. taxpayers to the extent permitted by federal law. This status was made permanent as of January 19, 2008.  See the Support ADNet page for further details on contributing to ADNet.
• January 2004: A national Board of five members met for the first time in Goshen, Indiana.  Later that year, the Board was expanded to seven members.
• September 1, 2004: Paul Leichty began working half-time as the Director of ADNet.  In January 2008, the title was changed to Executive Director.
• 2006: Associates Program begun, bringing additional volunteers into the staffing of ADNet.  Christine Guth named first Associate.  
• 2007: Congregational Accessibility Network launched. 
• 2008: Student Associates Program begun.  Christine Guth named Program Associate. 
• 2009: Full Congregational Accessibility Network program promoted.
• 2010: Field Associates program launched. Kathy Dickson and Sue Cassel named Field Associates. Christine Guth named Program Director. Congregational Advocates program initiated.
• 2011: Financial straits precipitate resignation of Paul Leichty and elimination of Executive Director position. Congregational Accessibility Network became independent organization. Board decision in October to focus in-person resources on the Great Lakes region. Endowment fund begun with major gift from Everence.

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