Everyone is unique. Everyone’s needs and desires are different, and what works for one, may not work for another. North Star Community Services has multiple programs that can be personalized to fit an individual’s needs, which may be different at different times in their lives. This allows North Star to provide stable, consistent services along with the continuity of care that can increase the quality of a person’s experiences and positive outcomes.

The largest North Star day programs are the Day Habilitation (Day Hab) programs, located in both Waterloo and Waverly. The Day Hab program is meant for adults with a disability who need support to learn to navigate daily life, pursue the greatest level of independence possible, and to become an integral part of the community. There is always something going on in Day Hab, and a typical day could include: walking for exercise, a trip to the Humane Society or Salvation Army to volunteer, the opportunity to take part in an art project, and enjoying lunch with peers. Although this works for many people, the large and active program is not ideal for everyone.

North Star’s Canterbury Center, formally referred to as the Head Injury Program, is a day care program located off Kimball Avenue in Waterloo. The name was changed in 2018 to better reflect the inclusiveness of services provided by the Center; most people attending Canterbury Center do live with an acquired traumatic brain injury, but not everyone utilizing the program does. It is smaller, homier, and quieter than North Star’s Day Habilitation program, which may be best for someone who needs a smaller setting to be successful.

Newel Post Adult Day Services is North Star’s day care program located on Tiffany Place in Waterloo. It is specifically geared towards individuals with age-related disabilities; and is a quieter and more intimate setting. People attending Newel Post are at least 50-years old and have age-related decline, including Alzheimer’s disease and more. These services offer important relief for the caregiver, and are meant to keep people healthier, happier and at home in the community for as long as possible.

For example, as “J’s” dementia progressed, it was evident the larger, more active day hab setting was no longer working, and she transferred to Newel Post. By having several settings to choose from, North Star was able to provide “J” continuity, and the familiarity of staff who already knew her. A quieter setting with more one-on-one time was just what she needed, and the right type of support kept “J” more independent, at home in the community, avoiding premature and more costly admission to a nursing home. With multiple ways to serve, North Star allows program participants what they need to be successful – quality, coherent services and supports over time.