Commission on Aging/Aging and Disability Resource Center Board — Agenda Packet
Portage County · Portage County · Commission on Aging/Aging and Disability Resource Center Board · meeting of Sep 3, 2026 · Agenda packets
Open the original document More from Portage County
Text
Extracted automatically from the original. Tables and formatting may not survive; the original document is authoritative.
PORTAGE COUNTY
MEETING AGENDA
COMMISSION ON AGING/AGING AND
DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER
BOARD
ADRC AT LINCOLN CENTER
MULTI-PURPOSE ROOM OR VIA
REMOTE CONNECTION
1519 WATER STREET
STEVENS POINT, WI 54481
Thursday, September 3, 2026 4:00 PM
REMOTE ATTENDANCE & COMMENT
To attend this meeting by telephone : dial 1-872-242-7813, after dialing the number you will then be asked to enter in a
meeting number. Use the following meeting number: 787 674 127, then press #
To attend this meeting by video: Join the meeting now
Page 1 of 3
CALL TO ORDER
Committee Members enter Per Diem and Mileage
REPORTS
1. Special Meeting Attendance Reports (Portage County Ordinance 3.1.47 & 3.1.48)
2. Finance - Budget Reports, July 2026
3. Resource Center - July Report
4. Nutrition Program
• July Snapshot
• Nutrition Advisory Council Minutes
• Nourishing Bites Newsletter, September
5. Advocacy
6. Reframing Aging - https://youtu.be/UYCxAIqjyCA?si=AygQnThcGDERoWoi
7. Directors Report
• Event Recap
• Upcoming Events
• Staffing
Page 1 of 110
Commission on Aging/Aging and Disability
Resource Center Board
Meeting Agenda September 3, 2026
Page 2 of 3
PRESENTATION
8. Senior Center
PUBLIC NOTICE
Members of the public who wish to address the Committee on specific agenda items must register their request at this time,
with such comments subject to the public comment ordinance and the reasonable control of the Committee Chair as set forth
in Robert’s Rules of Order.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
9. August 6, 2026
DISCUSSION/POSSIBLE ACTION
10. Nutrition Policy Updates
• Communications of Hazards
• Internal Food Temp
• HDM Additional Nutrition Services
• Program Operations
11. Participant Code of Conduct DRAFT
12. United Way Application
NEXT MEETING DATE
13. Thursday, October 1, 2026 at 4 p.m.
ADJOURNMENT
Notice: Any person who has special needs and plans on attending this meeting in-person or remotely should contact the Facilities
Office at 715-346-1598 as soon as possible to ensure that reasonable accommodations can be made.
Page 2 of 110
Commission on Aging/Aging and Disability
Resource Center Board
Meeting Agenda September 3, 2026
Page 3 of 3
NoticeNotice: Remote comment by the public during the meeting will be at the discretion of the Chair.
Notice: A quorum of the Portage County Board of Supervisors, or any committee thereof, may be present at this meeting.
Page 3 of 110
Page 4 of 110
Page 5 of 110
Information and Assistance (I&A) Specialists
Community Resources Report
July 2026
559 Encounters in July
256 Unduplicated Customers Served
445 hours were spent on these encounters
You were a bright spot in a hard time for us and I am so grateful
Disenrollment, 0.39%
Enrollment 5%
I&A 22%
Functional Screen
40%
Medicaid Application 7%
Options Counseling 10%
Other 14%
Additional time 2%
PERCENTAGE OF HOURS BY SERVICE TYPE
Information and
Assistance
Specialists
Page 6 of 110
July 2026 Community Resources Report, Continued
Disability Benefit
Specialists
Elder Benefit
Specialists
Long Term Care Enrollments This Month:
Case
Development
61%
Communication
15%
General Info,
Assistance, or
Referral
19%
Consultation 3%
Other, 1%
169 Encounters in July (166 Unduplicated)
PERCENTAGE OF HOURS BY SERVICE TYPE
Case
Development
2%
Communication
81%
General Info,
Assistance, or
Referral 12%
Consultation
1%
Other, 1%
82 Encounters in July ( 81 Unduplicated)
PERCENTAGE OF HOURS BY SERVICE TYPE
Inclusa: 701
Lakeland: 82
Managed
Care
Organizations
Advocates 4U: 2
Connections: 10
MILC: 32
TMG: 62
IRIS
Consultant
Agencies
Page 7 of 110
Volunteers
------------------
116 gave
1017 hours
Serving Days
----------------------
22 days
Total Meals
3401
---------------------
CONG 1272
HD 2638
7 visits
----------------------
Home
Visits
16 calls
--------------------
Wellness
Calls
SFMNP
50
Stock Box
93
---------------------
Hunger
Relief
Donations
--------------------
$9,607
1 Events
48 Served
----------------------
Pop Up
Events
Quotes:
So thankful for the
wonderful meal &
service. Your service
has hugely improved my
quality of life.
Nutrition Program
July 2026 Snapshot
Page 8 of 110
A s t h e h o t d a y s t u r n i n t o f a l l , w e w a n t t o e n c o u r a g e y o u t o j o i n u s
i n a n a t i o n w i d e e f f o r t t o h e l p r e d u c e f a l l s a m o n g o l d e r a d u l t s ;
S e p t e m b e r 2 1 - 2 5 i s F a l l s P r e v e n t i o n W e e k . F a l l s c a n b e m o r e
d a n g e r o u s t h a n t h e y s e e m . T h e y c a n c a u s e
b r u i s i n g , h i p f r a c t u r e s , a n d h e a d i n j u r i e s , a n d
h a v e t h e p o t e n t i a l t o b e f a t a l , e s p e c i a l l y f o r
o l d e r a d u l t s . M a n y t h i n g s i n c l u d i n g l o w e r
b o d y w e a k n e s s , V i t a m i n D d e f i c i e n c y ,
d i f f i c u l t i e s b a l a n c i n g , u s e o f m e d i c i n e s ,
v i s i o n p r o b l e m s , f o o t p a i n a n d p o o r f o o t w e a r c a n c o n t r i b u t e t o
f a l l i n g . H e r e a r e s o m e s t e p s y o u c a n t a k e t o p r e v e n t f a l l s .
S t a y a c t i v e . C h e c k o u t T h e P o s t f o r a l i s t i n g o f e x e r c i s e c l a s s e s
a v a i l a b l e s u c h a s S U Y N & S t r o n g b o d i e s .
H a v e y o u r e y e s a n d h e a r i n g t e s t e d . E v e n s m a l l c h a n g e s i n
s i g h t a n d h e a r i n g m a y c a u s e y o u t o f a l l .
L e a r n a b o u t t h e s i d e e f f e c t s m e d i c i n e ( s ) y o u t a k e . I f a d r u g
m a k e s y o u s l e e p y o r d i z z y , t e l l y o u r d o c t o r .
S t a n d u p s l o w l y . G e t t i n g u p t o o q u i c k l y c a n c a u s e y o u r b l o o d
p r e s s u r e t o d r o p w h i c h c a n m a k e y o u f e e l w o b b l y .
U s e a n a s s i s t i v e d e v i c e i f y o u n e e d h e l p f e e l i n g s t e a d y .
A p p r o p r i a t e u s e o f c a n e s a n d w a l k e r s c a n p r e v e n t f a l l s .
B e c a r e f u l o n w e t s u r f a c e s . T h e y c a n b e v e r y s l i p p e r y !
A l w a y s t e l l y o u r d o c t o r i f y o u h a v e f a l l e n s i n c e y o u r l a s t
v i s i t e v e n i f y o u a r e n ' t h u r t . A f a l l c a n a l e r t y o u r d o c t o r t o a
n e w m e d i c a l p r o b l e m o r p r o b l e m s w i t h y o u r m e d i c a t i o n s .
J o i n u s a t t h e A D R C f o r a F a l l P r e v e n t i o n A w a r e n e s s D a y e v e n t o n
S e p t e m b e r 1 5 t h . I n f o r m a t i o n c a n b e f o u n d i n S e p t e m b e r / O c t o b e r
T h e P o s t o r b y c a l l i n g t h e A D R C a t 7 1 5 - 3 4 6 - 1 4 0 1 .
S a f e g u a r d H o m e D e l i v e r e d M e a l s
P r o g r a m N e w s
Contact your legislators to request support for increased state funding
for Home-Delivered Meals (Meals on Wheels) in the 2027-2029
biennial budget. State funding of $5.50 per eligible population, ~$7.7
million/year, is needed to close the funding gap as currently there is a
heavy burden on local government and participants – which is not
sustainable. Investing in Home-Delivered Meals is a fiscally
responsible way to help older Wisconsinites age in place. The cost of
providing a year of home-delivered meals is roughly equivalent to the
cost of just 1 day in a hospital or 10 days in a long-term care facility.
P a r t n e r A g e n c y
F a l l P r e v e n t i o n
N O U R I S H I N G
B I T E S
S u p p o r t i n g S e n i o r s i n
P o r t a g e C o u n t y T h r o u g h
N u t r i t i o n
J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 4
M e a l s o n W h e e l s O f f i c e
7 1 5 - 3 4 1 - 0 0 8 1
m e a l s @ m e a l s o n w h e e l s s p . c o m
E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r
T a s h a B e e s t m a n
P r o g r a m A s s i s t a n t
K a i t l y n B a r t e n
S h a r o n R o w e l l
L o r i Y e n t e r
B o a r d o f D i r e c t o r s
A d r i a n n e B o n g a r d , P r e s i d e n t
S t e v e B i e r m a n , S e c r e t a r y
T e r r i e T a u f e r n e r , T r e a s u r e r
K a t h y F a n d r e
D a n i e l l K u c h a r z a k
R e k e t a H a t t e r
G a i l S a w y e r
P a m S t a r z i n s k i
M y k e e r a h Z a r a z u a
N O U R I S H I N G
B I T E S
S u p p o r t i n g S e n i o r s i n
P o r t a g e C o u n t y T h r o u g h
N u t r i t i o n
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6
A D R C o f P o r t a g e C o u n t y
7 1 5 - 3 4 6 - 1 4 0 1
a d r c @ c o . p o r t a g e . w i . g o v
N u t r i t i o n P r o g r a m M a n a g e r
R o c h e l l e D r e x l e r
P r o g r a m N u t r i t i o n i s t
A s h l e y C h r i s i n g e r
S i t e M a n a g e r s
J e n n y S t u c z y n s k i
L i s a B e y
P r o g r a m A s s i s t a n t
C i n d y S w a n
K i t c h e n
J e a n n i e G l o d o w s k i
C h e r y l K o n o p a c k y
A d v i s o r y C o u n c i l
D i a n e G a l l e n b e r g
M a u r e e n G i b l i n
J u d i e P f i f f n e r
M a r y J o R e e d
M a r y S c h a e f e r
M a r y S c h w e i t z e r
M a d e l i n e S t o c k b r i d g e
Page 9 of 110
D i d Y o u K n o w - O k t o b e r f e s t s t a r t s i n S e p t e m b e r ?
G i v e i t a T r y ! R o a s t e d C a r r o t s
E a t W e l l . . . .
Eating well during wound healing helps you heal
faster and fight infection. During healing, your
body needs more calories, protein, fluid, vitamin
A, vitamin C, and zinc. The best source of these
nutrients is food.
Plan healthy, balanced meals and snacks that
include the right amount of foods from all the
MyPlate food groups — protein, fruits, vegetables,
dairy and grains. Try to choose vegetables and
fruits rich in vitamin C, such as broccoli or
strawberries. Add sweet potatoes, winter squash
or even kale for some vitamin A.
For adequate zinc, choose fortified cereals such
as oatmeal and cold breakfast cereals. Include a
source of protein at each meal or snack. Try nut
butter, cheese or even tofu for a protein rich
snack.
Don't forget to stay well-hydrated with water or
other unsweetened beverages.
A g e W e l l . . . . . .
Aging affects everything in the body including the
structure and function of the skin and the phases of
wound healing. Skin gets thinner
and the body shows a decreased
nflammatory response meaning
that, as you get older, your skin is
predisposed to injury and will heal
slower when injury occurs. This is why it is important
to prevent injuries and falls.
Small wounds have the potential to turn into serious
wounds including decubitus ulcers, also known as
pressure sores or bed sores. Decubitus ulcers develop
where bones are close to the skin such as ankles,
back, elbows, heels and hips.
Good nutrition is essential in maintaining good
health. The home delivered meal supplies one-third
(1/3) of the recommended daily allowances (RDA)
for nutrients to optimize your health. Some tips for
the meals and snacks you make at home can be found
in our Eat Well section.
S e p t e m b e r 2 0 2 6
A t w o w e e k f e s t i v a l h e l d i n M u n i c h , G e r m a n y a n d e n d i n g o n t h e f i r s t S u n d a y i n
O c t o b e r , O k t o b e r f e s t w a s o r i g i n a l l y s t a r t e d t o c e l e b r a t e t h e m a r r i a g e o f t h e
c r o w n p r i n c e o f B a v a r i a , w h o l a t e r b e c a m e K i n g L o u i s I , t o P r i n c e s s T h e r e s e v o n
S a c h s e n - H i l d b u r g h a u s e n i n 1 8 1 0 . O k t o b e r f e s t i s a g r e a t t i m e " K n o t " k i d d i n g .
E n j o y t h e f a l l h a r v e s t , r o a s t s o m e n u t r i e n t r i c h c a r r o t s !
I n g r e d i e n t s :
6 c a r r o t s , p e e l e d a n d s l i c e d 1 T a b l e s p o o n c i n n a m o n
1 / 2 t e a s p o o n g i n g e r 1 / 2 t e a s p o o n g a r l i c p o w d e r
1 / 2 t e a s p o o n p a p r i k a 1 / 8 t e a s p o o n c a y e n n e p e p p e r
1 / 2 T a b l e s p o o n o l i v e o i l
D i r e c t i o n s : C o m b i n e / t o s s s p i c e s a n d c a r r o t s t o c o a t w e l l .
P l a c e i n o v e n s a f e b a k i n g d i s h . B a k e a t 4 0 0 d e g r e e s f o r 2 0 m i n u t e s , s t i r a n d b a k e a n o t h e r 2 0 m i n u t e s .
a d a p t e d f ro m G W A A R B e n e f i c i a l B i t e s
Page 10 of 110
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
S t e v e n s P o i n t - L i n c o l n C e n t e r @ 1 5 1 9 W a t e r S t r e e t
S e r v i n g 1 1 : 3 0 a . m . - 1 2 : 1 5 p . m . M o n d a y - F r i d a y
B i n g o - a f t e r l u n c h a t 1 2 : 3 0 p . m . , W e d n e s d a y s
B i l l a n d J o e M u s i c S h o w - 1 1 : 3 0 a . m . - 1 2 : 1 5 p . m . , T h u r s d a y s
B l o o d P r e s s u r e C h e c k s 1 0 : 0 0 a . m . - 1 2 : 0 0 p . m . , T h u r s d a y 9 / 1 7
S e p t e m b e r B i r t h d a y C e l e b r a t i o n - 9 / 2 4
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
A m h e r s t - J e n s e n C e n t e r @ 4 8 7 N o r t h M a i n S t r e e t
S e r v i n g a t 1 2 : 0 0 ( n o o n ) e v e r y W e d n e s d a y w i t h B I N G O a f t e r
C e l e b r a t e G r a n d p a r e n t ’ s D a y - 9 / 1 6
B l o o d P r e s s u r e C h e c k s 1 1 : 3 0 a . m . - 9 / 2 3
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
J u n c t i o n C i t y - P a r k L o d g e @ 2 2 4 C a s e A v e n u e
S e r v i n g a t 1 1 : 4 5 a . m . t h e 1 s t a n d 3 r d T h u r s d a y s ( 9 / 3 a n d 9 / 1 7 )
B l o o d P r e s s u r e C h e c k s 1 1 : 3 0 a . m . - 9 / 1 7
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
P l o v e r - M u n i c i p a l B u i l d i n g @ 2 4 0 0 P o s t R o a d
S e r v i n g a t 1 2 : 0 0 ( n o o n ) e v e r y T u e s d a y
S e n i o r C l u b B i n g o a f t e r l u n c h - 9 / 1 a n d 9 / 1 5
B i n g o a f t e r l u n c h - 9 / 8 , 9 / 2 2 , a n d 9 / 2 9
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
R o s h o l t - L e g i o n H a l l @ 2 9 0 G r a n d A v e
S e r v i n g a t 1 2 : 0 0 ( n o o n ) 2 n d a n d 4 t h T h u r s d a y s ( 9 / 1 0 a n d 9 / 2 4 )
w i t h B I N G O a n d o t h e r g a m e s a f t e r l u n c h
C e l e b r a t e G r a n d p a r e n t ’ s D a y - 9 / 1 0
B l o o d P r e s s u r e C h e c k s 1 1 : 3 0 a . m . - 9 / 2 4
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
N U T R I T I O N P O P U P E V E N T S
C e n t r a l W a t e r s B r e w i n g C o m p a n y
C e n t r a l W a t e r s B r e w i n g C o m p a n y ( 3 5 1 A l l e n S t r e e t , A m h e r s t ) i s o n e o f t h e m o s t
e n v i r o n m e n t a l l y s u s t a i n a b l e b r e w e r i e s i n t h e n a t i o n . T h e y c o n s i d e r e v e r y a s p e c t i n m a n a g i n g t h e i r
e n v i r o n m e n t a l f o o t p r i n t - f r o m u p s t r e a m p r o d u c t s o u r c i n g t o d o w n s t r e a m m a n a g e m e n t . L u n c h w i l l b e
s e r v e d a t 1 2 : 3 0 p . m . f o l l o w e d b y a t o u r o f t h e b r e w e r y . D o n a t i o n s o f $ 5 . 0 0 p e r m e a l a r e a p p r e c i a t e d t o h e l p
s u p p o r t t h e N u t r i t i o n P r o g r a m .
R e g i s t r a t i o n i s r e q u i r e d . C a l l L i s a a t 7 1 5 - 3 4 7 - 4 8 5 6 b y O c t o b e r 3 0 t h t o r e s e r v e y o u r s p o t .
S e r v i n g U p T h i s M o n t h : S E P T E M B E R
L o c a t i o n s a n d s e r v i n g d a y s l i s t e d b e l o w
C a l l t o r e s e r v e a m e a l o n e o r m o r e d a y s i n a d v a n c e .
S i t e M a n a g e r s :
J e n n y S t u c z y n s k i - L i n c o l n C e n t e r ( 7 1 5 ) 3 4 6 - 1 4 2 1
L i s a B e y - A l l o t h e r s i t e s ( 7 1 5 ) 3 4 7 - 4 8 5 6
Page 11 of 110
GROUP NAME: Nutrition Advisory Council (NAC) Meeting
DATE: August 13, 2026
Attending in Person: Mary Jo Reed, Judie Pfiffner, Mary Schweitzer, and Rochelle
Drexler; Rosalie Bednar and Barabar Butkus (potential 2027
Council members)
Not in attendance: Diane Gallenberg, Maureen Giblin, Mary Lee Schaefer, and
Madeline Stockbridge
Call to Order 12:44 PM – by Nutrition Program Manager, Rochelle Drexler.
Approve agenda – Motion made by Reed, seconded by Schweitzer. Approved.
Approval of March 24, 2026, Meeting Notes – Motion made by Reed, seconded by
Pfiffner. Accept meeting notes as presented.
Public Comment
• Request to have the POST newsletter sent out earlier. Too often pop-ups are full
and have wait lists by the time congregate meal participants find out about them in
the POST.
o Would it be possible to have a handout that explains, step by step, how to
download the POST from the ADRC website?
o Would the congregate meal site participants use a QR code if it was on a
postcard – taking them right to the POST?
o Should we have “tech day” at our meal sites?
• St. Adalbert Parish, Rosholt, has the following posted in their church bulletin:
“Partnering Together Portage County Assistance Needed in Providing Free Meals”
o 11:30-1:30, Monday through Friday
Public Notice – None.
Program Statistics
• YTD statistics (January through June)
o Summer volume is at or above winter months – which is not typical.
(Historically meal counts decrease during the summer months)
o Frozen Meals have increased roughly 30% as compared to last year.
o Attendance at Junction City meal site averages 8 participants per meal
Correspondence
• See Nutrition Program Manager Report
Nutrition Program Manager Report
• Home Delivered Meals
o In need of volunteer drivers. Program Manger and/or Program Assistant are
delivering meals about twice per month.
o Draft ADRC policy regarding volunteer mileage reimbursement reviewed.
• Congregate
Page 12 of 110
o Monitoring/Inspection Reports completed at Amherst (Jensen Center) and
Lincoln Center. Both sites are doing very well.
o Pop ups have been very well received. As of today, 320 have registered for
8/21/2026 picnic. September and October events are already full with a
waiting list.
• Staffing
o Anticipate Food Service Aide retirement at end of this calendar year or at
beginning of next calendar year.
o Open Dining Site Manager – On Call/Casual position.
One applicant was interviewed but deemed to not be a good fit.
• NAC Committee Member Update
o Some interest has been expressed in joining the NAC in 2027. Continue to
recruit for two members at large (replacing Judie Pfiffner and an open
position). Mary Jo Reed’s (representing Rosholt) second term will come to a
close in 2027 while Mary Lee Schaefers’s (representing Junction City) first
term will come to a close in 2027.
Kim King representing Lincoln Center (replacing Maureen Giblin)
Betty Stecker and/or Dennis Stecker representing Home Delivered
Meals (replacing Madeline Stockbridge)
Barbara Butkus representing Plover (replacing Diane Gallenberg)
Rosalie Bednar representing Amherst (replacing Mary Schweitzer)
• Kitchen Update/News
o Unable to send employee to Cook training in August due to staffing
challenges.
o Dining Site Managers and Program Manager have a training day on
Thursday October 15, 2026 in Antigo.
We will need to close Junction City meal site that day.
• Summer Regional Director Meeting – focused primarily on new Dietary Guidelines.
• Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)
o Eligibility is based on income and residency.
o 238 of 263 vouchers have been distributed as of August 1, 2026.
Participants received 5 vouchers valued at $5 each ($25 in total).
o Participants can use them at select stands at local farmer markets through
October 31, 2026
o In addition to the SFMNP vouchers, the Nutrition Program distributed 51 Fruit
and Veggie RX (FVRx) vouchers courtesy of Aspirus. Each voucher was worth
$20.
Participants could receive either the SFMNP voucher or the FVRx
voucher but not both.
Other Discussion –
• Annual Participant Survey is currently underway. Collecting surveys through August
31, 2026.
• Shelf Stable Meals will again be provided by United Way Partners to our program
as well as MOW.
o These can/should be used when there is an unplanned closure and/or meal
delivery is cancelled.
o The Nutrition Program provides saltine crackers and bags for the meals.
Page 13 of 110
o Approximately 1040 meals will be distributed between the two programs.
• 2025 Meal Cost Tool reviewed.
o Motion made by Reed and seconded by Pfiffner to continue with current
suggested donations of $5 and $12. Motion carried.
• Policy Review – motion made by Reed and seconded by Schweitzer to approve
policy updates with additional updates noted by Reed. Motion carried. Policies will
now go to the ADRC Board for approval.
o Communication of Hazards – approved as is.
o Internal Food Temps – approved as is.
o Additional Nutrition Service – Home Delivered
Approved requested update
Request to update verbiage in section titled “Requests for Services for
Individuals Sixty (60) and under”.
o Program Operations
Approved requested update.
Request to update verbiage in section titles, “Request for Individuals
Sixty (60) and under”.
• Updated Dietary Guidelines – Changes in menu planning will go into effect January
1, 2027.
o Impacts that will be noticeable to Program
No mention of beans/legumes for menu planning.
At least 2 color groups must be offered at each meal.
Dairy can include fluid milk, yogurt, cheese, fortified soy beverage,
fortified soy yogurt, and fortified tofu. There is no mention to whole
fat, low fat, or fat free milk.
Protein target has been increased to 30 grams per day.
There is now an added sugar target of < 10 grams per day. This will
most likely be the most challenging change.
• Advocacy
o We are all encouraged to reach out to our local legislators to request support
for increased state funding for home-delivered meals.
Written letters appear to have a bigger impact than email or phone
calls.
Sample letter included with meeting agenda.
• 2025-2027 Aging Plan Review
o Reed helped verify vision of previous manager for education at pop up sites.
Adjourn – 1:35 p.m. Motion made by Reed, seconded by Schweitzer. Approved
Next meetings:
Wednesday November 11, 2026
Jensen Community Center
487 N. Main St., Amherst
Page 14 of 110
Meeting time: after lunch. Lunch is served at noon
Page 15 of 110
8/31/2026
1
LincolnSenior Center
A senior center acts as a community hub for older adults. It provides social activities, health programs, and support services to help people stay active and independent.Core Services and ActivitiesSocial Connection:Group games, clubs, and social events help stop loneliness.Health and Fitness:Exercise classes, wellness checks, and fall-prevention programs.Learning and Hobbies:Art classes, computer training, and crafts.•Research shows older adults who participate in senior center programs can learn to manage and delay the onset ofchronic diseaseand experience measurable improvements in their physical, social, spiritual, emotional, mental, and economic well-being.
Page 16 of 110
8/31/2026
2
Senior Center Overview/MissionThe mission of the Senior Center is to provide opportunities for older adults and adults with disabilities to live life to the fullest in a welcoming, safe, and accessible place. Lincoln Senior Center encourages people to explore new things, meet new people, and help others through volunteering. Groups We Serve: Portage County Adults 55+, Adults 18+ with Disabilities, and CaregiversOversight: The Senior Center Advisory council assists in evaluating, promoting, planning, and advocating for the Senior Center and its participants, ADRC Board of Directors, ADRC Director. Funding: Class fees and donations, County Levy, Grants, Room Rentals, Senior Center without Walls
StaffingSenior Center Manager 1 FTEHealth Promotion Coordinator 1 FTE*Administrative Staff 2 FTE*Substitutes at Reception On CallCommunityConnections:Prevent Suicide Portage CountyPortage County Disability CoalitionRCCT Task ForcePortage County Healthy Aging Building a Safe and Thriving Community
Page 17 of 110
8/31/2026
3
We are an accredited center2025 Lincoln Senior Center Statics: There were 1609 participants in 77 different types of classes, programs, and events at the Senior Center during 2025. Volunteers are the heart and soulof Lincoln Center Senior Center. Volunteers contributed a total of 3179 volunteer hours toward teaching and programs in 2025.
Page 18 of 110
8/31/2026
4
E v i d e n c e - B a s e d P r o g r a m s
•Chronic Pain Management•6-week workshop•meets for two hours every week•Small group setting•Relaxation techniques•Managing stress and depression•gentle movements & stretching•Working with healthcare team•feedback & problem solving
Evidence-Based Health ProgramsHelp older adults and adults with disabilities improve their health and quality of life:⚬Increase independence⚬Improve physical health⚬Improve mental and social health⚬Reduce or prevent disease or injury⚬Reduce healthcare costsAre researched and proven to create long-lasting, healthy behavior changes through:⚬Years of development⚬Rigorous testing in controlled settings⚬Using effective behavior change modelsAre affordable thanks to:⚬United Way of Portage County ⚬Federal funding through Older Americans Act funding⚬17+ trained volunteer leaders and facilitators⚬Countless community partners who provide space, speakers, facilitators, program promotion, referrals, etc.
Cardio DrummingFun & FitTai Chi Ongoing Exercise Classes:STRONG BODIES
Workshops:•Women’s Bowel & Bladder Health•1-month workshop meets 3x•2-hour sessions, every other week•Small group setting•Improves bladder symptoms for 71% and bowel symptoms for 55%•Focuses on lifestyle changes like diet, fluid intake, & exercise.•Falls Prevention Workshop for 55+•7 weekly, 2-hour sessions•Small group setting•Reduces falls by 31%•Community guest speakers•Multifactorial - medication, footwear, exercise, community safety, home hazards, vision, etc.•Exercise + Health Ed + Bingo •10-week workshop meets 2x/week•Targets sedentary older adults of all ability levels•Addresses barriers to evidence-based program adherence
•Coordination•Strength•Endurance•Our only program with music•Coordination•Strength•Balance•Slow, mindful movements•Reduces pain & stiffness•Low impact •Range of motion stretches•Strength exercises•Progressive strength training•Balance•Bone density•Reduces pain***All programs offer modifications for different abilities***
Page 19 of 110
8/31/2026
5
Page 20 of 110
8/31/2026
6
Senior Center Programs
Page 21 of 110
Page 22 of 110
Page 23 of 110
Page 24 of 110
POLICY:
Employees are systematically informed of actual and potential chemical and environmental workplace hazards
and are educated in proper responses.
PROCEDURE:
1. Current Safety Data Sheets are available for each chemical in use.
a. Employee(s) are educated during orientation, in-services, and as new chemicals are added.
2. Nutrition Program Manager and/or designee has access to Portage County eBinder safety data sheets.
and ensures copies for paper binder made available at site. Version are updated as needed to ensure that
staff has up to date sheets.
3. Nutrition Program operates in accordance with County Hazard Communication Program.
SUBJECT: COMMUNICATION OF
HAZARDS
EFFECTIVE: 11/1/2018
DEPARTMENT: NUTRITION REVIEWED: 8/13/2026
APPROVED BY: ADRC Board DATE: 5/2/2024
Deleted: 12/1/2023
Deleted: Material
Page 25 of 110
POLICY:
Temperature checks will be done on all hot food to assure the temperature has reached an appropriate temp for
item or higher. Foods not meeting the minimum temperature will continue to be heated until desirable
temperature is reached.
● Seafood - 145 Fo for 15 seconds
● Steak - 145 Fo for 15 seconds
● Pork - 145 Fo for 15 seconds
● Beef or Pork roast - 145 Fo for 3 minutes
● Ground Meat – 160 Fo for 15 seconds
● Poultry - 165 Fo for 15 seconds
● Commercially processed, ready-to-eat food, heated for the first time & hot held for service - 135 Fo for
15 seconds
● Fruits & Vegetables hot held for service – 135 Fo for 15 seconds
PROCEDURE:
All Employees:
1. Nutrition Program personnel responsible for hot food preparation will check temperatures on hot
food before serving. Temperatures shall be at appropriate temperature for item or higher.
2. Temperatures will be recorded. Food not meeting the minimum temperature will continue to be
heated until desirable temperature is reached. Temperature will be rechecked and recorded.
SUBJECT: INTERNAL FOOD TEMPS EFFECTIVE: 11/1/2018
DEPARTMENT: NUTRITION REVIEWED: 8/13/2026
APPROVED BY: ADRC Board DATE: 5/2/2024
Deleted: 1/12/2024
Deleted: 4
Deleted: -
Deleted: 155
Deleted: -
Deleted: 140
Page 26 of 110
U:\ADRC Administration\Admin Assistant\COA ADRC BOARD\2026\Attachments Current Meeting\HDM
Additional Nutritional Services 2026.docx
POLICY:
This policy address specific interventions to meet additional nutrition needs of participants
and requests from program participants including meal requests from individuals sixty (60)
years of age and younger.
PROCEDURE:
Additional Meal/Milk
1. When sufficient funding and resources are available, the nutrition program may
offer additional meals/milk to participants on a voluntary contribution basis.
2. Provision of such meals/milk requires approval from the nutrition program
manager.
a. Priority will be given to individuals at high nutritional risk.
b. Individuals not at high risk will be served based on program funding and
resources.
3. Individuals who are served will be reassessed at a minimum of every 6 months to
ensure utilization and that participant’s needs are being met.
4. All additional meal/milk requests and reassessments will be documented.
Frozen(s)
1. The nutrition program may offer meals, on a voluntary contribution basis, to home-
delivered meal participants in a frozen state. Program is not required to provide
such meals.
2. The nutrition program will use the following criteria to determine recipient’s need
for frozen meals.
a. Prior to beginning frozen meals, recipient should be receiving hot meals on
most days offered.
b. Program staff will assess the feasibility of delivering frozen meals based on
assessment and route capabilities.
c. Priority will be given to individuals at high nutritional risk.
3. Individuals receiving frozen meals will be reassessed annually to ensure utilization
and that participant’s needs are being met.
4. Assessments/Reassessments are to be completed through an in person/home visit.
5. All additional frozen(s) requests and reassessments will be documented.
SUBJECT: ADDITIONAL
NUTRTIONAL SERVICES –
HOME DELIVERED
EFFECTIVE: 1/1/2021
DEPARTMENT: NUTRITION REVIEWED: 8/13/2026
APPROVED BY: ADRC BOARD REVISED: 1/9/2025
Deleted: 11/11/2024
Deleted: at
Page 27 of 110
U:\ADRC Administration\Admin Assistant\COA ADRC BOARD\2026\Attachments Current Meeting\HDM
Additional Nutritional Services 2026.docx
Requests for Services for Individuals Under Age Sixty (60)
1. The nutrition program may provide nutrition services on a voluntary contribution
basis to adults under age sixty (60) with a disability who live alone in the
community as long as sufficient funds are available.
2. The nutrition program manager will use any of the following criteria to determine
recipient’s need for home delivered meals.
a. Does the individual have a disability that makes them homebound?
b. Does the individual have a disability that makes them unable to prepare
their own meals?
c. Does the individual have other supportive services in place that can help
meet their nutritional needs?
d. Is the individual certified homebound by a medical professional?
e. Priority will be given to individuals at high nutritional risk.
3. Services provided to these persons will be approved on a case-by-case basis by
the nutrition program manager.
4. Total cost of the service must be paid by the individual, their family, or by another
program or payor on the person’s behalf. Documentation that full payment has
been made will be maintained by the nutrition program.
Deleted: Sixty (60) and
Page 28 of 110
POLICY: This policy outlines program operations to ensure compliance outlined in the Wisconsin Department of Health Services – Bureau of Aging and Disability Resources Nutrition Services Operation Manual. PROCEDURE: Funding and Sustainability 1. Funding a. The nutrition program is funded by a combination of federal and state funds, local funds including community grants, and participant contributions. b. Budget Cycle – agency will follow the county’s budget cycle. 2. Contributions a. Recipient will be asked to voluntarily contribute toward their meals. b. Participants may give voluntary contributions to program staff or mail in to the program office. Participants attempting to give their donation to a home delivered meal driver will be encouraged to mail in their donation. c. Change will not be made for cash contributions. d. All contributions are voluntary and confidential. e. All contributions will be handled and processed according to county policy. f. No eligible person will be denied a meal based on their ability to contribute toward the cost of their meal. g. Receipts will be provided upon request. 3. Non-Sufficient Funds (NSF) a. Participants will be asked to contribute, within their means, on a monthly basis towards the cost of their meals. Individuals will not be denied services based on inability to pay/contribute. b. If a check is returned for NSF, participant will be informed by letter of bank fees assessed to the program. Program will cover said costs. Staff will assess and refer recipient as needed to community resources/partners including, but not limited to, financial education, additional nutritional services, and energy assistance. c. If subsequent NSF occur, nutrition program manager will speak with the individual to create a plan. 4. Sustainability a. The Nutrition Program will source locally when items are available and within fiscal responsibility of the program’s budget. b. Sourcing locally fosters a resilient, sustainable, and vibrant community.
SUBJECT: PROGRAM OPERATIONS EFFECTIVE: 1/1/2021 DEPARTMENT: NUTRITION REVIEWED: 8/13/2026 APPROVED BY: ADRC Board DATE: 1/9/2025
Deleted: 11/11/2024
Page 29 of 110
Staffing
1. The program will employ for the nutrition program an adequate number of qualified staff to
ensure the provision of program leadership, planning, food service management, nutrition
services and other services. See ADRC Organizational Chart for details.
Eligibility for Services
Services are targeted to older adults who are in greatest social and economic need, with no consideration
of their citizenship or residency status. Individuals are eligible as outlined in accordance with standards and
requirements in the Wisconsin Department of Health Services – Bureau of Aging and Disability Resources
Nutrition Services Operation Manual.
1. Enrollment
a. Participants will be asked to complete enrollment/registration form at least once per year.
b. Participants will be asked to complete a nutrition screening at least once per year. The
required screening tool in Wisconsin is the "Determine Your Nutritional Health." The
nutrition screening checklist is a federal public information collection requirement in the
National Aging Program Information System (NAPIS).
c. Participants may be asked to provide a physician referral.
d. Several attempts will be made by nutrition staff to have individuals complete the required
program forms in their entirety.
e. Nutrition program staff are responsible for informing participants about why information
is being asked, that provision of such information is tied to program funding, how the
information will be used, and how their confidentiality is being protected.
f. The following privacy statement will be provided to participants and included on all
program-related documents in which participant data is being collected:
The information you are being asked to provide is needed to determine
if you are eligible to receive Older Americans Act Services and to comply
with federal reporting requirements. This information will be stored in a
secure electronic database and will not be used for any other purpose.
Your information will not be shared with another agency without your
permission. This information will not be sold to anyone. You have the right
to review your electronic record and request changes to assure accuracy.
You will not be denied most services if you refuse to provide this
information. If you have questions regarding this, please ask the aging
unit staff.
2. Nutrition Program Data Management
a. All program participants and their meal data are recorded in the State Database system
in accordance with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services – Bureau of Aging and
Disability Resources Nutrition Services Operation Manual.
b. The participant registration or intake system ensures the collection of required program
data.
c. Data documented in state database is shared with NAPIS.
d. Program Assistant performs data entry recording participant information, service provision
statistics, outcomes data, and other information provided by site regarding services by 7th
day of each month.
i. Checks state database reports for errors and corrects by 8th day of month.
Page 30 of 110
ii. Checks MOW subcontract state database reports for errors.
1. Final state database report data is entered into Nutrition Services
Incentive Program (NSIP) email report in U drive.
iii. Emails Finance Grant Accounting Specialist state database service reports and
meals by service after data entered and errors corrected.
e. Finance Grant Accounting Specialist enters data on the meal expense tool, Title III C1 and
C2 and then completes the Claim form.
i. Claim form is submitted by Finance Department by 10th of each month to Greater
Wisconsin Area on Aging Resources (GWAAR).
3. Requests for Individuals Under Age Sixty (60)
a. The nutrition program may provide nutrition services on a voluntary contribution basis to
adults under age sixty (60) with a disability who live alone in the community if sufficient
funds are available. Approval from the nutrition program manager is required.
b. Nutrition program volunteers are offered meals on a voluntary contribution basis provided
enough funds are available.
c. Priority will be given to individuals at high nutritional risk.
d. Meals may be offered to all other persons under the age of sixty (60) provided that the
services are paid for in full by the individual, his or her family, or by another program on
the person’s behalf. This includes agency staff under the age of 60.
i. Individuals required to pay for their meals must pay the full price of the meal prior
to receiving the meal.
ii. If another program is the responsible payer, an agreed upon payment schedule
must be made between the nutrition program and payer prior to beginning
services.
iii. Failure to pay for meals may result in termination from the program.
iv. Services provided to these persons will be approved on a case-by-case basis by
the nutrition program manager.
e. Individuals may request to eat on a contribution basis if they are not eligible.
i. Program manager will review and request if sufficient funding and resources are
available may approve on a case by case basis.
f. Individuals may be eligible to eat on a contribution basis provided they meet the
requirements outlined in accordance with standards and requirements in the Wisconsin
Department of Health Services – Bureau of Aging and Disability Resources Nutrition Services
Operation Manual.
4. Confidentiality
a. Program records are kept as outlined in the Wisconsin Department of Health Services –
Bureau of Aging and Disability Resources Nutrition Services Operation Manual.
b. Participant (paper/electronic) records are kept seven (7) years from termination in
program.
c. The nutrition program will ensure that participant information be kept confidential
according to state policy. No personal information will be disclosed in a form which
identifies the individual without written consent from the participant or legal
representative. All program records will be maintained in such a manner that
confidentiality will not be violated.
Deleted: Sixty (60) and
Page 31 of 110
Nutrition
Meals are provided as outlined in accordance with standards and requirements in the Wisconsin Department
of Health Services – Bureau of Aging and Disability Resources Nutrition Services Operation Manual.
1. Standards
a. Meal Provided
i. The program will provide a meal in accordance with standards and requirements
found in the Wisconsin Department of Health Services – Bureau of Aging and
Disability Resources Nutrition Services Operation Manual.
b. Nutrition Standards/Menu Analysis
i. Menus will be developed in accordance with standards and requirements in the
Wisconsin Department of Health Services – Bureau of Aging and Disability Resources
Nutrition Services Operation Manual.
ii. Menus will be analyzed in accordance with guidance found in the Wisconsin
Department of Health Services – Bureau of Aging and Disability Resources Nutrition
Services Operation Manual.
iii. Menus may be modified based on feedback from participants, volunteers, and
staff.
2. Food Safety and Sanitation
a. The nutrition program will comply with applicable provisions of State and Local laws
regarding the safe and sanitary handling of food, equipment, and supplies used in the
storage, preparation, service, and delivery of meals.
b. Food Temperatures.
i. Will be recorded on production sheet daily by kitchen staff and site managers.
ii. A test tray on each home delivered route will be completed at least quarterly.
iii. Forms are returned to nutrition office.
c. All staff, paid and volunteer, will be oriented and trained to perform their assigned
responsibilities and tasks as outlined in the Wisconsin Department of Health Services –
Bureau of Aging and Disability Resources Nutrition Services Operation Manual.
d. Additional policies regarding safety and sanitation in the kitchen are outlined in - Kitchen
Policies.
3. Additional Meals
a. Emergency meals (fresh, frozen or shelf stable) may be offered to program participants if
resources are available.
b. Nutrition Manager may elect to send additional meal(s) to recipients in anticipation of
cancellation (i.e. weather closure, holiday).
4. Education
a. Nutrition education will be provided to program participants on a regular basis as
outlined in the Wisconsin Department of Health Services – Bureau of Aging and Disability
Resources Nutrition Services Operation Manual.
b. Nutrition education will be offered on an as needed basis based upon results of recipient’s
annual nutrition screen.
c. Nutrition staff will refer participants to community resources as needed and/or requested.
Page 32 of 110
Nutrition Site
1. Nutrition Site Evaluation
a. Nutrition site locations are selected in accordance with standards and requirements in the
Wisconsin Department of Health Services – Bureau of Aging and Disability Resources
Nutrition Services Operation Manual. and advisory council input.
b. Any changes to nutrition site locations must be submitted to GWAAR using required forms.
c. Each nutrition site will be reviewed at least annually using GWAAR form and submitted to
program manager.
2. Closure
a. A nutrition site may be temporarily/permanently closed due to varying circumstances.
Participants will be notified as soon as possible of closure and of alternatives available to
them.
b. ADRC Cancellation Policy or the ADRC Continuity of Operation Plan will be followed.
c. Closure requirements as outlined in the Wisconsin Department of Health Services – Bureau
of Aging and Disability Resources Nutrition Services Operation Manual will be followed.
3. Emergency Procedures
a. Nutrition Staff will review site emergency procedures including fire and tornado plans at
least annually to ensure accuracy.
b. Nutrition Staff will review emergency procedures with nutrition site participants as outlined
in the Wisconsin Department of Health Services – Bureau of Aging and Disability Resources
Nutrition Services Operation Manual, including fire and tornado plans.
4. Inventory
a. Nutrition staff or designee will complete an inventory of nutrition program
supplies/equipment annually at each nutrition site.
b. Completed form(s) will be returned to program manager in timely fashion.
Grievances/Complaints
1. The nutrition program welcomes all forms of feedback and sees negative comments as
opportunities to strengthen the program and better serve the community.
2. All program participants will be made aware of the grievance process upon enrolling in the
nutrition program.
3. Nutrition staff or designee receiving grievance/complaint will document said complaint and
forward to Nutrition Manager. Refer to the ADRC Complaint and Grievance Policy and Form.
4. Nutrition Manager will evaluate grievance/complaint and following ADRC and the Wisconsin
Department of Health Services – Bureau of Aging and Disability Resources Nutrition Services
Operation Manual guidance, address the grievance.
5. In the occasion that the grievance is regarding program management, staff will share complaint
with ADRC Director directly.
Page 33 of 110
Aging and Disability Resource Center of Portage County
Participant Code of Conduct Policy
The purpose of the ADRC Participant Code of Conduct Policy is to outline the preferred and
acceptable behavior to be displayed by all those who participate in programs at the Aging and
Disability Resource Center of Portage County, and the process for correcting unacceptable
behaviors.
A. Statement of Philosophy
All ADRC programs shall be friendly and inviting places for older adults and adults with
disabilities to congregate and socialize. All participants including those served at remote
locations or in their homes are also expected to follow the following guidelines. Patrons are
expected to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner at all times while taking part in
programs and services provided or sponsored by the agency. Acts of violence, sexual assault,
disrespect for authority, anti-social conduct, misuse or abuse of equipment and facility, and use
of foul language or gestures will not be tolerated. We reserve the right to remove patrons from
facilities, programs, and services via suspension periods determined by designated
representatives. Behavior which inhibits older people and adults with disabilities from using and
enjoying ADRC programs or where volunteers feel unsafe or mistreated, is inappropriate.
Inappropriate behavior will be addressed and handled on a case-by-case basis with consequences
deemed appropriate.
The program operates under “Promises” that govern all ADRC programs. Additionally, we
provide participants of our programs with reasonable guidelines and expectations of behavior,
enforced for the benefit of all participants, staff and volunteers. The policy includes all interior
areas of the ADRC, outdoor spaces, off site programs as well as sponsored activities and delivery
of services to a person’s home. We are committed to providing a safe and welcoming
atmosphere for our patrons, volunteers, guests, and staff. Consequently, all patrons of all ADRC
programs will be expected to adhere to a Code of Conduct when taking advantage of the services
or facilities.
B. Department Responsibilities
To foster a pleasant and upbeat environment
To promote a nonjudgmental atmosphere
To provide quality program services to all eligible participants
To maintain participant confidentiality
To treat individuals with dignity and respect
Listen and respond to concerns and suggestions for improving the program
Participant Responsibilities (Code of Conduct): To ensure a comfortable and safe setting for
all who visit our facility, our off site programs and our services provided in people’s homes.
Page 34 of 110
Unacceptable behavior will not be tolerated. Unacceptable behavior includes, but is not limited
to the following:
Engaging in behavior that is potentially unsafe or harmful to self or others.
Exhibiting any threatening or intimidating behaviors, such as:
o Using profane, abusive, obscene, threatening, harassing, insulting, or sexually
suggestive language.
o Threatening or using violence.
o Harassing patrons, volunteers or staff.
o Using hate speech or epithets (e.g., racial, ethnic, sexist , homophobic and
religious slurs).
Violating any federal, state, county or city laws and ordinances.
Failing to comply with lawful direction given by staff acting in the performance of their
duties.
Possessing, using, or selling alcohol or controlled substances. (at dining sites)
Fighting or challenging others to fight.
Touching another person in any way that is unwelcome or uncomfortable.
Misusing, misappropriating, damaging, stealing, or obstructing use of equipment,
resources or facilities.
Selling, soliciting, petitioning, posting or distributing materials without permission.
o Examples include selling products or services, circulating a petition, survey or
letter, or selling tickets for an organization or event.
Failing to maintain a level of personal hygiene that is non-offensive in a social
environment
Leaving or stowing personal possessions at the Center.
Littering in the Center or on its grounds.
Bullying or taking unfair advantage of any participant.
Inappropriate or excessive use of furniture for lying down or sleeping
Failure to follow an agency policy or procedure.
Retaliating against anyone for reporting a violation of this Code.
The simple philosophy behind this policy is the Golden Rule:
Treat everyone the same way that you want to be treated.
C. Procedures for ADRC Staff for Participant Violations of Code of Conduct:
Concerns about inappropriate behavior should be channeled to the immediate program
coordinator or site manager, the division manager or the ADRC Director. Action consistent with
this policy will be taken as appropriate. The above code shall be enforced by all program
coordinators and site managers or division managers and ultimately by the ADRC Director
whose authority shall prevail in all cases. A violation of the Code will result in a disciplinary
action determined by the division manager and ADRC Director. The disciplinary action will
Deleted: ¶ ... [1]
Formatted: Font: 12 pt
Page 35 of 110
range from a verbal or written reprimand to suspension or expulsion, depending on the nature of
the offensive conduct.
1. Any staff member or volunteer of the program may request that the inappropriate behavior
cease. If the inappropriate behavior continues;
a. All Programs: The program coordinator or site manager will talk with the
individual one on one to explain and discuss the inappropriate behavior and work
to establish a resolution that is agreeable for both parties. If this is not successful,
the program coordinator or site manager may require that the individual leave the
building and inform the participant of the process outlined in Offense and Penalty
below will be initiated. If the situation is emergent or if the program manager or
site manager feels their safety or the safety of participants is in danger, they shall
tell the offender that the police will be called if they do not leave at once. If the
individual refuses to leave, the police shall be called.
b. In Home Services: A phone call will be made to the individual and their
family/emergency contact to explain and discuss the inappropriate behavior and
work to establish a resolution that is agreeable for both parties. If this is not
successful, the program coordinator or division manager will inform the
participant and their family of the process outlined in Offense and Penalty below
will be initiated. If the situation is emergent or if the volunteer or staff member
feels their safety is in danger, they shall contact the ADRC Director immediately
so further action can be determined.
2. Emergency situations shall be acted upon immediately and may be referred to the police for
assistance. An Emergency situation includes, but is not limited to the following:
Any situation in which an individual’s actions are perceived to present an
imminent danger to the life or safety of the individual or third parties.
Incidents including assault and other crimes of violence, or the threat or attempt to
commit such crimes.
The intentional destruction of ADRC property or the property of others.
3. Any patron who commits or attempts to commit any of the offenses listed above, or any other
behaviors illegal under state or federal law, is subject to sanctions, which may include:
Being asked to leave the premises
Having privileges suspended or revoked
Page 36 of 110
Being banned from ADRC programs
Being reported to the police
Legal prosecution
Restitution, when appropriate.
It is our sincere desire that situations never warrant the removal of an individual from the
program, any activity, event or facility. However, in the unfortunate event that infractions occur,
be aware that the following consequences may apply:
Offense and Penalty (to include but not limited to)
Level 1
o Offense: Inappropriate behavior, non-physical, or non-unlawful violations of the
Code of Conduct.
o Penalty:
First Offense: Verbal Warning
Second Offense: Written warning letter shall be sent by the ADRC
Director to the participant informing the participant of the infraction and
the potential consequences for continued violations.
Third Offense: Immediate removal from ADRC premises or suspension
from in home services with a minimum fifteen (15) day suspension. The
governing body may vote to suspend the participant from ADRC
Programs for a period not exceeding 30 days, as well imposing other
reasonable conditions that the Committee deems necessary to prevent
future infractions.
Fourth or more Infraction and Serious Infractions: The governing body
shall suspend the participant from ADRC Programs for a minimum of 91
days up to the maximum of a permanent expulsion from all ADRC
programs. A face to face meeting with the ADRC Director will be
required before allowing the participant to have access to the facility,
programs or activates. The governing body may also impose other
reasonable conditions that they deem necessary to prevent future
infractions. For those infractions that are considered by the governing
body to be so serious in nature, they may impose penalties equivalent to a
fourth infraction without the requirement of having prior infractions.
Level 2 – Verbal
o Offense: Malicious, obscene/profane/vulgar verbal abuse; verbal epithets related
to race, color, religion, creed, gender or sexual orientation; verbal threats or acts
intended to offend, defame or embarrass.
o Penalty: Immediate removal from ADRC Programs and a minimum thirty (30)
day suspension.
Level 3 – Physical
o Offense: Physical aggression towards another participant, staff or volunteer;
pushing, shoving, striking or touching another individual with the perceived intent
Page 37 of 110
to incite, inflict or cause harm; invading another individual’s personal space
during a dispute, or touching another participant in a way that is unwelcome and
inappropriate.
o Penalty: Immediate removal from ADRC Programs and a minimum one hundred
eighty (180) day suspension.
Level 4 – Unlawful
o Offense: Any violation of Wisconsin law; theft, vandalism, being under the
influence of alcohol, narcotics, controlled substances, or assault with or without a
weapon.
o Penalty: Immediate removal from the premises and a minimum one (1) year
suspension.
PLEASE NOTE: Depending on the nature of the Code violation, the ADRC Director reserves
the right to suspend a violator beyond those periods listed above, up to and including a
permanent ban from ADRC programs.
D. Due Process for Participants Alleged to Have Violated Code of Conduct:
1. Upon any infraction of the Code of Conduct rules herein, ADRC Program Coordinators
and Site Managers shall prepare a written report detailing such infraction and shall
provide a copy to their division manager and the ADRC Director. A copy shall be sent in
the mail to the participant within 10 business days. For all first infractions, a warning
letter shall be mailed by the ADRC Director to the participant.
2. For all second or subsequent infractions, after receipt of the written report, the ADRC
Director shall notify the Commission on Aging/Aging and Disability Resource Center
governing board and take up the matter and shall allow the Program Coordinator or Site
Manager, the participant, and any other relevant third party an opportunity to be heard. A
written copy of the action taken shall also be sent in the mail to the participant.
3. A written letter shall be sent from the COA/ADRC Board to the participant within 5
business days after the meeting detailing the outcome and the reasons for taking such
actions.
E. Appeal Process:
1. Notice of Appeal: Participants may appeal a decision by utilizing the Aging and
Disability Resource Center of Portage County’s Complaint and Grievance Process.
Approval Date: March 1, 2018
Page 38 of 110
Page 39 of 110
Page 2: [1] Deleted Giblin, Kathleen 7/21/2026 10:52:00 AM
Page 40 of 110
Aging and Disabilty Resource Center - Agency Information ApplicationCommunity Impact
2027 - 2027 Application
Application Status: Completed / Ready to Submit
Aging and Disabilty Resource Center
Agency Information
You may save your work at any time by clicking on the "Save My Work" link/icon at the bottom or top
of the page.
When you have completed all questions on the form, select the "Save My Work and Mark as
Completed" link/icon at the bottom or top of this page.
You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the
upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be
saved.
General Agency Information
Agency Name Aging and Disabilty Resource Center
Executive Director Name Cindy Piotrowski
Address 1519 Water Street, Stevens Point, WI, 54481, US
Agency Phone (715) 346-1401
Agency Fax (715) 346-1418
Agency Email piotrowc@co.portage.wi.gov
Tell us how your organization regularly reports to your donors and the public that it is supported
by funding through the United Way of Portage County.
The ADRC puts this information in our bi-monthly newsletter, our annual report, on our website and on related
program brochures & documents; including Caregiver support group notices. Information on United Way
funding and applications is also shared with board and staff. There used to be a decal on the main entry door,
but when the door was replaced, we lost the decal. If they become available again, we would gladly put one
up.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 1 of 70
Page 41 of 110
Aging and Disabilty Resource Center - Adult Day Center - Program Information 2027 ApplicationAging and Disabilty Resource Center - Adult Day Center
Program Information
You may save your work at any time by clicking on the "Save My Work" link/icon at the bottom or top
of the page.
When you have completed all questions on the form, select the "Save My Work and Mark as
Completed" link/icon at the bottom or top of this page.
You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the
upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be
saved.
General Information
Program Name Adult Day Center
Primary Contact Tonia Simmons, phone: (715) 343-6305, email: simmonst@co.portage.wi.gov
Funding Received
United Way of Portage
County Funding received
in 2026
10,000.00
Funding Request For This Application Period
2027 Requested Amount 10,000.00
Program Alignment, Priority and Strategy
Impact Area and Descriptions: Youth Opportunity: United Way will partner with evidenced-based
programs that are most effective in helping our children from birth through high school succeed in
education and in life. Financial Security: United Way will partner with evidenced-based programs that
give community members a chance for a brighter future, and a path toward achieving financial
stability. Healthy Communities: United Way will partner with evidenced-based programs that improve
behavioral, mental and physical health wellness. Community Resiliency: United Way will lead and/or
partner with programs that address short-term needs, strengthen local systems, and build a culture
of preparedness.
Select the impact area
your program closely
aligns
with:
Healthy Community
Program Overview
1. Please describe the purpose of your program and the community need is addressing. Include:
the program your program will address, the population served, local data or community
assessments that demonstrate the need (such as the LIFE report, agency data, or other sources),
and why your organization is well-positioned to address the need.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 2 of 70
Page 42 of 110
This is a dual-purpose program that supports caregivers and participants of the program, allowing both to
remain as contributing members of the community. Caregivers are able to utilize the respite service so they
are able to continue to work and/or volunteer in the community, maintain friendships and commit to social
engagements, complete tasks/run errands, rest/care for themselves, keep appointments of their own, etc.
Participants are able to socialize, experience intergenerational opportunities, participate in Senior Center
events, participate in the Cycling Without Age program, etc.
The first purpose is to provide a safe, meaningful and social environment for participants who attend the Adult
Day Center (ADC). Alleviating social isolation is a critical community need/problem that affects participants
as well as their caregivers. In numerous studies, caregivers report feeling socially isolated, describing the
experiences as emotionally draining, physically exhausting and life-altering.
The second purpose is to provide caregivers with a respite option so that they are able to receive a break in
order to maintain good mental and physical health. for working caregivers, the ADC is a resource to use while
maintaining their employment. Retired caregivers are able to stay involved with their volunteer roles within the
community, participate in civic organizations, continue to enjoy recreational hobbies, and/or remain social
engaged with their friends, family/grandchildren. Long distance caregivers also have the option of utilizing
transportation services for their care receivers.
Located right inside Lincoln Center the Adult Day Center offers supervised programming for those who need
extra care to remail living in the community as independently as possible. This is accomplished by providing
opportunities for socialization, personal cares, support with daily living activities and preventative care to
participants and by providing respite and education to families and caregivers. The Adult Day Center is
licensed by the State of Wisconsin. Participants pay an hourly fee. Financial assistance may be available.
Additional services include opportunities to build friendships and participate in community events, participate
in a variety of activities, are provided nutritious meals and snacks, on-going health monitoring and medication
supervision, participate in therapeutic music, games and crafts, opportunities for regular exercise and range
of motion activities, and participate in intergenerational activities. For an additional fee, assistance with
showering is also available. The Adult Day Center is a flexible, person-centered program that offers family
and other caregivers a break from their caregiving responsibilities-whether it's one hour each day or five full
days each week, the ADC caters to individual needs.
In addition, our organization is well-positioned to address the need by being a neutral set of eyes and ears,
working with the caregivers to identify on-going service needs. As a gap-filling and cost-effective program,
attendance at the ADC can delay more expensive long-term care options, allowing individuals to remain living
in their homes longer.
2. What type of barriers are you helping program participants overcome?
There are a couple of barriers the program helps participants overcome. The most prominent barrier is social
isolation. Some participants live alone but many live with working caregivers or caregivers who are
overcoming barriers themselves, such as health challenges.
Another barrier the program helps participants overcome is entering long-term care facilities prematurely.
Adding respite supports and access to on-going service needs, often times participants are able to stay in
their own homes longer. The same holds true for caregivers. By providing respite services that give
caregivers a break, they're able to do a better job staying on top of their own care needs and doctor
appointments. Too often caregivers neglect themselves and don't outlive their care receiver.
In both situations, the ADC allows the participants and caregivers to remain engaged in the community.
Lastly, the ADC partners with Central Transportation to provide a means to assist caregivers to get
participants to and from the center, thus solving transportation barriers in many cases.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 3 of 70
Page 43 of 110
3. What evidence-based or evidence-informed practices or "best practice" are used by your
program to inform your program design? Why are these approaches appropriate for your target
population? Please reference specific research supported strategies the program implements. If
your program has been adapted, describe those adaptations.
The evidence-based practice mimicked is that of assisted living facilities however, in a day-service setting.
Regulated and licensed by the State of Wisconsin, Department of Health Services (DHS) standards, our
Home & Community-Based Setting (HCBS) program uses/defines "best practice" as, "a day program that
provides the elderly and other adults with disabilities services when their caregivers are at work or need
relief. Only those adult day care programs seeking to serve one or more participants with waiver funding are
required to be certified." The Adult Day Center adheres to the same site-visit inspections by state examiners
as other long-term care facilities such as assisted living and skilled nursing facilities. Such adherence is
appropriate for our target population since many have dementia diagnoses or are no longer capable of
making their own decisions or advocating for themselves. Our program is required to utilize and submit a self-
assessment too and to be in compliance with the HCBS settings rule.
4. Is there anything else you would like to share about your program?
Yes, there are a few more things we'd like to share about our program. Many of the participants have utilized
the Adult Day Center for several years, using the facility as a complement to their current living situation. Many
live in their own homes however, several live in adult family homes. Participants have opportunities to make
friends and see them regularly. An opportunity they wouldn't have otherwise. They get to have many
experiences and remain involved in community activities more frequently than if they were home. Over the
past four years, the Stevens Point School District has allowed a summer school program to be conducted in
conjunction with the ADC's programming. Pawsome Partners, led by teacher, Dorothy O'Connor, consists of
an 8-week long curriculum integrating intergenerational (3rd-5th graders) and pet therapy (a future service
dog for the blind) who interact with the ADC participants. Each day includes lessons about life skills,
presentations by local community members (law enforcement, mayor, nonprofit organizations, local
businesses, etc.) who speak to and/or demonstrate topics relevant to the class.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 4 of 70
Page 44 of 110
Additional Program Information 2027Aging and Disabilty Resource Center - Adult Day Center
Additional Program Information
You may save your work at any time by clicking on the "Save My Work" link/icon at the bottom or top
of the page.
When you have completed all questions on the form, select the "Save My Work and Mark as
Completed" link/icon at the bottom or top of this page.
You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the
upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be
saved.
Program Background
1. Provide an example of how program data has been used to improve or change the program's
services or design. Include what changes were made and what impact those changes have had.
Program data has been used to improve and change a couple of services. The first outcome indicates
caregivers feel less stress about caregiving and an improved awareness of resources available. The ADC
Supervisor participates in caregiver coalition meetings and includes educational materials/event invitations in
enrollment packets. The involvement of the supervisor provides and extension of caregiver support services
to caregivers she sees on a daily basis. In addition, caregivers who have participants attending the ADC are
invited to attend caregiver support groups and not be charged for that respite time. The same holds true for
the caregiver annual conference and when other caregiving educational opportunities presents itself. The
impact these changes have made have allowed us to get to know and work with caregivers longer and offer
additional services specific to their situation, resulting in the ability to stay in their own homes longer.
2. If you are asking for an increase in your allocation for 2027, please tell us why.
n/a
3. Please describe your outreach activities to ensure you reach the target populations throughout
Portage County. Describe how you identify, reach, and engage your priority population. Include
how you reduce barriers to participation (transportation, language, cost, scheduling, disability
access, etc) and how you reach rural or underserved residents when applicable.
We conduct a lot of outreach activities. We provide regular, consistent emails to approximately 200
caregivers each month. The ADC is part of the agency's Caregiver Support Services program (so is the
Dementia Care Specialist program). Any time any program coordinator provides outreach, conducts a
presentation, facilitates a class/support group, the ADC is mentioned as a respite option. We're all cross-
trained to provide tours and/or start the enrollment process. In addition, close relationships are kept with the
managed care organizations. Many of the participants are referrals from their case manager. Internal referrals
are important as well. Program availability is communicated to our internal team within the agency. We
partner with other programs' events to ensure rural visibility (Dementia Awareness Week, Prom, Nutrition
Picnic, Falls Prevention Awareness, etc.). Externally, the Caregiver Coalition of Portage County meets
regularly to discuss gaps in caregiving services and updates regarding respite availability and challenges
within the community.
4. Does your program
have a waiting list?
No
4a. Describe current demand for the program, particularly if on a waitlist. If demand exceeds
capacity, explain how participants are prioritized and if you have been able to reduce the numbers
waiting for services.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 5 of 70
Page 45 of 110
Our center is licensed for 40 however current census is 32. Since not all of the participants are full-time
attendees more than 40 people could be enrolled. Some participants utilize a 'drop-in' schedule based on the
needs of their caregiver and might only need the service once a month. Staff to participant ratios are
monitored daily and hour by hour. We utilize part-time and on-call aides so that we're able to offer flexible
scheduling. We have not experienced the need for a waitlist.
5. Describe how participant feedback is collected and how it has influenced program
improvements.
Participant and caregiver feedback is collected on the front end and back end of their participation at the
ADC. Upon enrolling, a detailed social history and interest form is completed. Along with their care plan, the
information is reviewed by the supervisor and family/caregiver. Interests, abilities, and health conditions are
taken into consideration and modified as needed. Care plans are reviewed every six months however
feedback is welcomed at any time. Then, upon exiting the program, a survey is conducted. This feedback is
very important and influences our planning. For an example, their feedback might influence the activity
calendar. Frequently we need to adapt to on-going health challenges or, be sure to have an alternate activity
planned in order to provide choices. Participants can opt out of an activity if they'd like to. Sometimes we're
able to provide one-on-one socialization utilizing one of our interns or volunteers in order to accommodate
wishes.
6. Please describe any programming changes, innovations, or enhancements that are planned
during the upcoming funding period.
There are no plans for significant programming changes. The only enhancement would pertain to staffing.
We're seeing an uptick of service hours so it might be necessary to increase hours of current staff.
7. Is there a fee for your
program services?
Yes
7a. Do you have a sliding
fee scale?
No
7b. Please explain your program's rationale for this decision.
The rationale behind not having a sliding fee scale is that the agency has state and federal caregiver funds
that can be used to assist qualifying caregivers with some respite expenses.
8. Describe how you use In-Kind and volunteer resources to contribute to and enhance your
program.
Each year, the ADC is blessed with a few volunteers to assist with socializing and leading activities with the
participants. Volunteers hear about the ADC from Volunteers Rock or from the agency's Retired Senior
Volunteer Program (RSVP). Students from UWSP also come to the Adult Day Center as volunteer interns.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 6 of 70
Page 46 of 110
Program Budget - 2027 ApplicationAging and Disabilty Resource Center - Adult Day Center
Program Budget
You may save your work at any time by clicking on the "Save My Work" link/icon at the bottom or top
of the page.
When you have completed all questions on the form, select the "Save My Work and Mark as
Completed" link/icon at the bottom or top of this page.
You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the
upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be
saved.
Revenue
2026 Budget
2026 Actual
(1/1/26
- 6/30/26) 2027 Proposed
$ Difference
(2026
Budget - 2027
Proposed)
% Difference
(2026
Budget / 2027
Proposed)
United Way Allocations 15,000 7,500 10,000 -5,000 -33.33
Contributions 50 0 0
Special Events 0 0
Other Public Support 0 0
Government Support 0 0
Foundations & Private
Grants
0 0
Dues / Fees 146,000 67,595 158,000 12,000 8.22
Sales To Public 0 0
Investment Income 0 0
Miscellaneous (Click to
itemize)
0 0 0 0 0
Total 161,000 75,145 168,000 7,000 4.35
Expenses
2026 Budget
2026 Actual
(1/1/26
- 6/30/26) 2027 Proposed
$ Difference
(2026
Budget - 2027
Proposed)
% Difference
(2026
Budget / 2027
Proposed)
Salaries 101,582 45,888 103,003 1,421 1.40
Employee Benefits & Payroll
Taxes
18,437 8,081 16,062 -2,375 -12.88
Professional Fees 0 0
Supplies/Printing/Duplicatin
g
725 151 723 -2 -0.28
Communication 11,807 4,682 12,500 693 5.87
Occupancy 0 0
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 7 of 70
Page 47 of 110
2026 Budget
2026 Actual
(1/1/26
- 6/30/26) 2027 Proposed
$ Difference
(2026
Budget - 2027
Proposed)
% Difference
(2026
Budget / 2027
Proposed)
Rental / Maint. Of Equipment 0 0
Travel 384 15 406 22 5.73
Conference / Conventions /
Mtgs.
500 60 -440 -88
Scholarships / Grants / Asst.
To Indiv.
0 0
Dues to State / National Org. 359 175 486 127 35.38
Insurance 0 0
Miscellaneous (Click to
itemize)
27,206 439 34,760 7,554 27.77
Pre-Employment Testing 467 467
Reference/Background
Checks 30 30 30
Food Purchases 2,000 409 2,000
Designated for Future
Operations 24,709 32,263
Total 161,000 59,431 168,000 7,000 4.35
Surplus / Deficit
2026 Budget
2026 Actual
(1/1/26
- 6/30/26) 2027 Proposed
$ Difference
(2026
Budget - 2027
Proposed)
% Difference
(2026
Budget / 2027
Proposed)
Surplus / Deficit 0 15,714 0 0 0
Reserve and Endowment Funds
Please provide the following information
2026 Budget
2026 Actual
(1/1/26
- 6/30/27) 2027 Proposed
$ Difference
(2026
Budget - 2027
Proposed)
% Difference
(2026
Budget / 2027
Proposed)
Reserved Fund Balance 0 0
Endowment Fund Balance 0 0
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 8 of 70
Page 48 of 110
Client Demographics - 2027 ApplicationAging and Disabilty Resource Center - Adult Day Center
Client Demographics
You will not need to report proposed individual demographic category data in the 2027 application.
You will need to continue to collect the individual demographic data in the following categories (Age,
Gender, Race/Ethnicity, Participant Poverty Level, and Elderly or Disabled Poverty Level) as you
always have.
Once collection is completed at the end of 2027, you will enter that data accumulated into the 2027
Year-End Reporting tool to be released in February of 2027.
When you have completed all questions on the form, select the “Save My Work and Mark as
Completed” link/icon at the bottom or top of this page.
You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the
upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be
saved.
Participants
Proposed # Served
2026
Actual # Served
through 6/30/2026
Proposed # Served
2027
Individuals 90 71 90
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 9 of 70
Page 49 of 110
Priority:
H - Priority 1: Support access, affordability, and delivery of mental, behavioral, and physical health
services for community residents.
Strategy:
HP3 A. Provide support and access to resources for community memebers caring for those who
have cognitive, physical, and mental health conditions, either at home or within the community.
Outcome Statement:
Caregivers report feeling less stress about caregiving and indicate an improved awareness of
resources available.
Activity:
The ADC Supervisor includes the Caregiver Roadmap in enrollment packets. ADC Supervisor
has frequent in person and telephone conversations with caregivers to help gauge their level of
stress and offers suggestions and possible solutions to ongoing caregiver struggles/stressors.
Referrals are then made to the Caregiver Support Services Manager and/or Dementia Care
Specialist who assist with ongoing resource navigation.
Activity:
The ADC Supervisor updates the information bulletin board monthly with upcoming caregiver
events (support groups, classes, webinars, etc.) and distributes flyers to caregivers. ADC
enrollment information is also posted and shared on social media and in agency newsletter.
Activity:
The ADC Supervisor participates in Caregiver Support Services caregiver coalition meetings in
an effort to stay informed about community resources that would benefit caregivers and
participants.
Outcome Measurements - 2027 ApplicationAging and Disabilty Resource Center - Adult Day Center
Outcome Measurements
Select a Priority, then select a Strategy. Then Enter your outcomes, indicators, and activities.
Strategy
Outcomes
Indicators Proposed results (1/1/27
-12/31/27)
Actual results (1/1/2027 -
12/31/2027)
# & % of caregivers who report feeling
less stress upon utilizing respite
services.
# Served 90
#
Sampled
87
#
Achieving
85
%
Achieving
97.70 0
# & % of caregivers who indicate # Served 90
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 10 of 70
Page 50 of 110
Outcome Statement: Participants will feel a sense of inclusion and not be socially isolated.
Activity:
ADC Supervisor, staff, interns and volunteers will offer a variety of group and person-centered
activities throughout the day and supervisor will record participant engagements and share
information with caregivers.
Activity:
Community members/business owners are invited into the center on a monthly basis to engage
with participants.
Activity:
Participants get involved with summer school & Project Search students, attend a summer
picnic and other agency festivities throughout the year. During the summer months trishaw
rides that venture out into the parks and community will be offered.
they've acquired increased knowledge
of community resources.
#
Sampled
87
#
Achieving
80
%
Achieving
91.95 0
1. Describe the tools or methods used to collect outcome data. Why are these methods
appropriate for measuring success?
The method used to gather outcome data begins with enrollment. Post program surveys are conducted.
Initially, enrollment paperwork is completed to help gauge needs/stress levels of caregivers. Additionally,
every 6 months care plans are reviewed in which program satisfaction is discussed as well as the
potential need of other services.
2. Additional comments regarding outcomes and indicators
Post program surveys are challenging to obtain. Unfortunately, sudden long-term care needs can change
rapidly so obtaining the information can be difficult.
Indicators Proposed results (1/1/27
-12/31/27)
Actual results (1/1/2027 -
12/31/2027)
# & % of caregivers of participants
report that their participant is
appropriately engaged.
# Served 90
#
Sampled
87
#
Achieving
86
%
Achieving
98.85 0
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 11 of 70
Page 51 of 110
# & % of caregivers who report that
their participants are safer at the ADC
than at home.
# Served 90
#
Sampled
87
#
Achieving
80
%
Achieving
91.95 0
1. Describe the tools or methods used to collect outcome data. Why are these methods
appropriate for measuring success?
The method used to gather outcome data begins with enrollment. Post program surveys are conducted.
Initially, enrollment paperwork is completed to help gauge needs/stress levels of caregivers. Additionally,
every 6 months care plans are reviewed in which program satisfaction is discussed as well as the
potential need of other services.
2. Additional comments regarding outcomes and indicators
Post program surveys are challenging to obtain. Unfortunately, sudden long-term care needs can change
rapidly so obtaining the information can be difficult.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 12 of 70
Page 52 of 110
Key Program Details 2027Aging and Disabilty Resource Center - Adult Day Center
Key Program Details 2027
When you have completed all questions on the form, select the "Save My Work and Mark as
Completed" button at the bottom of this page.
You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the
upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be
saved.
Key Details
Explain how your program aligns with the selected Impact Area, priority population, and strategy.
Describe how your activities will advance the intended community outcomes.
The Adult Day Center aligns with the Impact Area (Healthy Community), priority population, and strategy by
providing direct services to two distinct populations. The dual-purpose program supports caregivers and
participants. Providing a break for caregivers reduces their stress. Providing resources and knowledge to
caregivers equips them with decision-informed solutions. Being readily available helps them navigate through
these services. Participants benefit from ADC services by having an opportunity to remain engaged in their
community, make friends, eat nutritious meals/snacks all in a safe environment that is filled with activities. This
gap filler program is more affordable than long-term care options and utilizing this service delays the need for
that expense, in most cases.
Describe your program model. What are the major services provided, and how do these activities
and services lead to the outcomes you expect participants to achieve?
Under the direction of the Department of Health Services (DHS standards), our Home & Community-Based
Setting (HCBS) program is regulated just like assisted livings and skilled nursing facilities are in our
community. Our services and quality of staff lead to the success in achieving the outcomes. We contribute to
the participants and caregivers enhancing the quality of their lives. Providing respite/breaks for caregivers,
social outlets, activities, quality meals, exercise, and person-centered care attributes to this success.
Describe how your program coordinates with other organizations, schools, healthcare providers,
or community partners. Explain how these partnerships improve participant outcomes, reduce
duplication of services, or strengthen the community response and impact.
Our program has many years of experience, passing the baton back and forth and providing appropriate
cares for our mutual clients. Enrollment usually begins with referrals from relationships built with community
partners like healthcare provides and/or managed care organizations. Having open and honest conversations
regarding whether or not the ADC can accommodate care needs and is an appropriate fit as a gap filler
program is imperative. As health setbacks happen, good communication and providing flexibility is key. Once
care needs advance, that conversation happens during care plan reviews and physician notes are
considered. Additional services might be suggested. Once a participant's care needs reach a point of being
beyond the ADC's scope of services, we work with the family to hand that baton to the next level/provider. This
type of care consultation allows everyone to be well-informed of the roles we all play and strengthens the
community response and impact as trust is established. We become dependable and important partners.
Describe the ways you sustain this program beyond United Way funding. Include other major
funding sources, partnerships, or organizational resources that contribute to long-term stability.
In addition to receiving United Way funding, the ADC program is sustained by utilizing managed care
organization funding. Some participants work with a care manager and qualify for our services. A minimal
amount of funding is provided by a state grant called the Alzheimer's Family Caregiver Support Program
(AFCSP) and applies to qualified families. This grant has an annual cap and the agency's funding fluctuates
each year. Lastly, there is the option to pay for service privately.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 13 of 70
Page 53 of 110
Provide a brief explanation of your funding request. Describe how the requested United Way
investment will be used and why these expenses are necessary to achieve the proposed
outcomes.
The day-to-day operations in the Adult Day Center is very unpredictable. Depending upon service hours from
a mostly frail population is fluid. In a couple of cases, caregiver grant funds pay for respite services for
participants however, those funds are unpredictable and minimal. Funding from United Way allows
reassurance that the programming is sustainable. The funds have been proving to meet a vital community
need and helps caregivers get the break they need and provides them with the time to manage their stressful
situations.
Explain any significant increases or decreases in proposed program revenue or expenses.
Revenue has been increasing as a result of more service hours being utilized. The ADC has seen an 18%
increase in the average daily service hours and a 24% increase in the daily census since the beginning of the
year.
Please reflect on your program's performance during the previous funding period. Describe any
significant differences between your proposed and actual results (whether higher or lower than
targeted), what contributed to those results, and how those lessons have informed your plans for
the upcoming year.
Although there haven't been significant differences between proposed and actual results, the previous funding
period has shown consistent reporting of service hours from month-to-month including revenue and
participants enrolled.
Currently revenue has been increasing as a result of more service hours being utilized. The ADC has seen an
18% increase in the average daily service hours and a 24% increase in the daily census since the beginning
of the year. As a result, staffing has been adjusted accordingly, including the addition of a part-time position
rather than all on-call aides.
The results have been two-fold. Staying more closely aligned with managed care organization reimbursement
rates and our cost of doing business has been the most significant contribution to these results. In addition,
the ADC Supervisor has partnered in initiatives facilitated by the Caregiver Services Manager and Dementia
Care Specialist, often times resulting in respite referrals.
Closely monitoring the staff to participant ratio requirements, along with the daily census, this will ensure we
continue to be adequately staffed. If needed, consideration of an additional part-time role could be discussed.
Explain how each proposed outcome is meaningful for the participants you serve.
The participants served by the Adult Day Center might not have the opportunities available to them if they
weren't able to attend the ADC. Caregivers who are overwhelmed or lack experience dealing with dementias
might not have the energy or skills needed to feel comfortable keeping themselves and their care receiver
engaged in the community. This could be a simple as going out to their favorite restaurant for lunch. Things
that were easy to do in the past, eventually become difficult. Adult Family Home caregivers have multiple
people they're caring for at one time. Respite at the ADC allows them a break and exposes their care
receivers to a broader range of friends and activities. Volunteers, students and other community members
often participate in activities alongside the participants, offering exposure to a variety of conversations and
encounters.These participants are included in a wide variety of socially appropriate activities, ensuring they
will feel a sense of inclusion.
The participants aren't only referring to the individuals spending their days attending the ADC, they're also the
caregivers who need the break. Caregivers repeatedly report feeling less stress by having their care receiver
attend the ADC service, allowing them free time to catch up on errands, household tasks, their own
appointments, or even sleep.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 14 of 70
Page 54 of 110
How will evaluation results be used to improve program quality or participant outcomes?
Identifying the needs of caregivers, care receivers, case managers, etc. is an ongoing initiative. Person-
centered care is highly regarded and necessary. As needs change as people are aging in place and co-
morbidities are being identified, the evaluation of the program's quality and outcomes is constantly at the
forefront. Our services are an extension and complement to services at home and are another layer of
enhancing participants' quality of life. Although the ADC is not an end-of-life service, the better job we do of
holding evaluation results in high regard, the better (and longer) we'll be able to provide service to individuals
and their caregivers.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 15 of 70
Page 55 of 110
Publicity and Marketing - ApplicationAging and Disabilty Resource Center - Adult Day Center
Publicity and Marketing
The success of the United Way Campaign depends on our ability to communicate to donors the needs
in our community and the impact of programs such as yours. The information gathered on this form
will be used for publicity and marketing purposes including, but not limited to; e-newsletters, website,
Facebook, etc.
Please consider the questions, found by selecting the green question mark, as you complete your
success story to in order to make it more compelling to donors and the general public.
Client Success Story
Agency Contact for
Success Story:
Donna Koskta
Phone Number for
Success Story:
(715) 346-1422
Restate the outcome the story links to:
Caregivers report feeling less stress about caregiving and indicate an improved awareness of resources
available.
Success Story (Please select the green question mark to review and consider the questions as you
complete your success story to in order to make it more compelling to donors and the general
public)
Two similar successes happened months apart in the ADC.
#1: Ann moved in with her daughter, Stacy a year ago after being diagnosed with dementia. Stacy works full
time from home. Before Ann started attending the ADC, Stacy was unable to work productively because
Anita was becoming increasingly anxious and was 'getting into trouble' in the kitchen and other areas. Stacy
attended a presentation about resources available at the ADRC and learned about the Adult Day Center.
Soon after, she scheduled a tour with Donna, the ADC Supervisor and enrolled her mother full time. Now,
Stacy is able to work from home productively and Ann is exhausted from her full days 'volunteering' at the
center. When Ann returns home, she enjoys relaxing and sharing stories about her busy days with Stacy and
they both are sleeping better.
#2: Kurt lived in CO for the past several years and decided to visit his son, Jason back in Stevens Point over
the holidays. Kurt never left to go back home. Jason didn't realize how much is dad's dementia progressed.
Talking with him over the telephone didn't disclose all the signs. Neither did feedback from the home health
aide Jason hired to help his dad with household tasks a while back. Jason's wife, Susan (a nurse practitioner)
noticed serious concerns about Kurt's safety and his ability to be left alone. Jason didn't know where to turn
but during a casual conversation with colleague at UWSP, it was suggested that he look into the services at
the Adult Day Center. Kurt made a telephone call to Donna, set up a lunch tour and enrolled his dad into the
center, attending five days each week. Thankfully Kurt enjoys attending each day so moving from CO and
being able to live with family made this situation workable for everyone.
The partnership with United Way supports the continuation of our program. Situations change rapidly with the
population we serve and daily attendance can drop significantly due to illnesses, hospitalizations and deaths.
Having financial support to cushion when these circumstances happen, help ensure the survival of our
program.
*Both families in the examples above weren't willing to sign publicity releases, but they did verbally agree to
have their stories shared..
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 16 of 70
Page 56 of 110
I grant United Way permission to use the information provided on this form publicly.
Yes
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 17 of 70
Page 57 of 110
Aging and Disabilty Resource Center - Caregiver Support Services - Program Information 2027 ApplicationAging and Disabilty Resource Center - Caregiver Support Services
Program Information
You may save your work at any time by clicking on the "Save My Work" link/icon at the bottom or top
of the page.
When you have completed all questions on the form, select the "Save My Work and Mark as
Completed" link/icon at the bottom or top of this page.
You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the
upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be
saved.
General Information
Program Name Caregiver Support Services
Primary Contact Tonia Simmons, phone: (715) 343-6305, email: simmonst@co.portage.wi.gov
Funding Received
United Way of Portage
County Funding received
in 2026
22,867.00
Funding Request For This Application Period
2027 Requested Amount 22,867.00
Program Alignment, Priority and Strategy
Impact Area and Descriptions: Youth Opportunity: United Way will partner with evidenced-based
programs that are most effective in helping our children from birth through high school succeed in
education and in life. Financial Security: United Way will partner with evidenced-based programs that
give community members a chance for a brighter future, and a path toward achieving financial
stability. Healthy Communities: United Way will partner with evidenced-based programs that improve
behavioral, mental and physical health wellness. Community Resiliency: United Way will lead and/or
partner with programs that address short-term needs, strengthen local systems, and build a culture
of preparedness.
Select the impact area
your program closely
aligns
with:
Healthy Community
Program Overview
1. Please describe the purpose of your program and the community need is addressing. Include:
the program your program will address, the population served, local data or community
assessments that demonstrate the need (such as the LIFE report, agency data, or other sources),
and why your organization is well-positioned to address the need.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 18 of 70
Page 58 of 110
Caregiver Support Services (CSS) are available to family members, neighbors and friends who provide
direct care to someone (informal or unpaid caregivers), such as feeding or bathing, supervision, and/or
supportive care such as delivering meals, giving rides, managing medication, or calling/stopping-in simply to
conduct wellness visits. Services are available to people age 60 and older, or people with Alzheimer's
disease, Parkinson's disease or other dementias regardless of age. Assistance is also available for adults
with disabilities, grandparents or relative caregivers 55 years of age or older who care for children under age
19, or care for a relative with a disability who is 19 to 50 years of age.
CSS supports the importance of self-care, education, strong mental and physical health; and offers
opportunities to learn more about caregiver needs, gaps of services within the community and disease-
specific education/services. Assistance with navigating through options is a highlight that addresses a critical
community need. Most caregiver seek help while experiencing a crisis. The critical community need is
identified while guiding caregivers through the services available which, most have never heard of. These
services aren't fun to shop for and usually isn't done in advance therefore, meeting caregivers 'where they're
at' in their journey and assisting them throughout, it is a need this program addresses.
CSS include educational programs (Caregiver Roadmap panel presentations quarterly), support groups
(offered three times each month), one-on-one service navigation assistance and support, financial
assistance, and information about respite, home health, personal care services, transportation, hospice, and
other in-home supports.
CSS provides support to caregivers and assists with the navigation through many services and can
potentially work with families for many years. Caregivers often need help in identifying themselves as
caregivers and even when they do, they don't know where to begin. This is a critical community need and a
problem CSS staff and coalition work toward addressing. The program emphasizes the need for caregivers
to take care of themselves and assists individuals with identifying and prioritizing their 'emergencies' in order
to adequately care for their love one while balancing their own needs and minimizing their stress levels.
Caregivers receive assistance with planning. The don't always outlive their care receiver.
Our organization is well-positioned to address this need because of our approach. Under the CSS umbrella,
the Caregiver Services Manager oversees the dementia programs and Dementia Care Specialist (DCS)
and the Adult Day Center (ADC) and its Adult Day Center Supervisor (along with 4 part-time/on-call aides).
Together, we're helping to identify caregivers, identify imminent needs (their emergencies), narrow options
down to begin with, assist in enrolling them into the high-priority service first, then conduct excellent follow-up
(we know they're overwhelmed). Then, we slowly start introducing them to the 'next thing.' As their stress levels
lessen, they have the mental capacity to take-in more. Usually, they attend a roadmap presentation and are
introduced to more options and can hear others asked questions they hadn't thought of. They also can start
putting faces with names as our community coalition partners talk about their services. From there, their foot
is in the door, they're developing relationships, maybe meeting a friend or two they have something in
common with and begin understanding that there is help out there.
2. What type of barriers are you helping program participants overcome?
The Caregiver Support Services programming addresses many barriers. Caregivers/participants lack
resource knowledge and navigating through services. People don't know where to begin, who to contact, or
which questions to ask. Another barrier is time. Many caregivers are still working or have family commitments
(Sandwich Generation) and struggle juggling everything. Many older caregivers face technology barriers.
Joining virtual support groups might eventually be their only option should they no longer be able to drive. In
addition, the number of caregivers caring for more than one individual is starting to be monitored more
closely. The growing aging population, smaller family sizes, and people relocating to wherever the jobs are
(long-distance caregivers) influences this and exasperates the concern.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 19 of 70
Page 59 of 110
3. What evidence-based or evidence-informed practices or "best practice" are used by your
program to inform your program design? Why are these approaches appropriate for your target
population? Please reference specific research supported strategies the program implements. If
your program has been adapted, describe those adaptations.
CSS knows that assisting people with navigating through services, that tend to be complicated, is necessary.
The framework of the program uses trained staff to help people find, access and use community, health, and
government support systems. Meeting diverse situations where they're at and listening to what the needs are
helps the program adapt to very fluid situations and community needs. In addition, the Caregiver Services
Manager oversees the dementia programs and Dementia Care Specialist (DCS) and the Adult Day Center
(ADC) and its Adult Day Center Supervisor (along with 4 part-time/on-call aides). Together, we're helping to
identify caregivers and their potential needs. This program also utilizes an evidence-based caregiver training
model called Powerful Tools for Caregivers. The class is offered multiple times each year and teaches
caregivers to take care of themselves (set, and keep goals), reduce stress, improve self-confidence, better
communicate (feelings, 'I' statements, conversations with medical teams, etc.), address family dynamics,
locate resources pertaining to healthcare/legal planning and other caregiver-related tasks.
4. Is there anything else you would like to share about your program?
The program has been offering quarterly Caregiver Roadmap presentations for the past six years. These turn
into insightful community conversations and a couple of connections and relationships are established. Most
times,
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 20 of 70
Page 60 of 110
Additional Program Information 2027Aging and Disabilty Resource Center - Caregiver Support Services
Additional Program Information
You may save your work at any time by clicking on the "Save My Work" link/icon at the bottom or top
of the page.
When you have completed all questions on the form, select the "Save My Work and Mark as
Completed" link/icon at the bottom or top of this page.
You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the
upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be
saved.
Program Background
1. Provide an example of how program data has been used to improve or change the program's
services or design. Include what changes were made and what impact those changes have had.
Program data regulates the programs offered by Caregiver Support Services. Not only are surveys and
feedback from participants considered, numerical data provides a view that is specific to caregiver needs.
For an example, state and federal dollars are provided to Portage County each year to reimburse caregivers
for day-to-day caregiving expenses. These reimbursements are for items like incontinence products, safety
equipment, home modifications, or social events. Tracking specifically what caregivers are spending money
on allows us to budget the grant funds adequately each year. For an example two years ago, we noticed that
caregivers are spending more on day-to-day supplies (Goods & Services) than on emergency respite
services so, the budget was adjusted, allowing larger allocations to caregivers for supplies. The impact this
change alone has made has been a relief to caregivers since the aren't having to deplete some of their own
financial resources to pay for their care receivers needs.
2. If you are asking for an increase in your allocation for 2027, please tell us why.
n/a
3. Please describe your outreach activities to ensure you reach the target populations throughout
Portage County. Describe how you identify, reach, and engage your priority population. Include
how you reduce barriers to participation (transportation, language, cost, scheduling, disability
access, etc) and how you reach rural or underserved residents when applicable.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 21 of 70
Page 61 of 110
Caregiver Support Services facilitates a lot of outreach. In fact, most months, our state liaison comments
about our efforts. The success is attributed to team member approach. The Caregiver Services Manager,
Dementia Care Specialist, and Adult Day Center Supervisor work cohesively together, providing appropriate
caregiver referrals to one another. Currently, we have 199 caregivers on our email list and provide general
newsletter information, as well as, specific caregiver-related weekly informational messages and dementia-
related topics to those it pertains to.
The most successful activity utilized has been presenting the Caregiver Roadmap tool to the community on a
quarterly basis. Ten community professionals (roadmap panel) discuss their role that's represented on the
roadmap. One-by-one each 'pitstop' is discussed as a potential resource option throughout a caregiver's
journey. Often times, panel members have questions for one another, and we all learn something new each
time. The presentation begins with a primary care provider, then continues with information from an ADRC
professional, a supportive care agency, home health care agency, advance directives guidelines, financial
planning and real estate information, rehab and skilled nursing guidelines, senior housing/assisted living
options, hospice care myths, and finally, funeral home planning.
Next, an annual Caregiver conference (hosted each November during National Family Caregiver Month) & a
Dementia Friendly Community conference (hosted each May during Dementia Awareness Week) are held.
Caregiver Coalition members participate in both and provide outreach to caregivers.
4. Does your program
have a waiting list?
No
4a. Describe current demand for the program, particularly if on a waitlist. If demand exceeds
capacity, explain how participants are prioritized and if you have been able to reduce the numbers
waiting for services.
The program is not experiencing a waitlist however each month an average of two new caregivers join the
program. This includes new support group attendees, those who attend a quarterly Roadmap Panel
presentation, the Powerful Tools for Caregivers class, a new caregiver of and Adult Day Center participant or
a referral from the Dementia Care Specialist or other agency staff.
5. Describe how participant feedback is collected and how it has influenced program
improvements.
Feedback from particpants is primarily collected after services were provided. An example would be after a
class/presentation. Several open-ended questions are asked in order to obtain specific information and/or
requests for future topics. In addition, support group attendees are asked for feedback quarterly. Each month,
three sessions are offered. During one of them, a speaker is invited that is specific to topics discussed or
requests made. The duration of those meetings is generally longer and often times turn into 'working' groups.
For instance, enrolling caregivers in the Vital Information Packet program or offering assistance with their
technology devices so that they learn and are able to participant in virtual group/class options involves
spending more time one-on-one with individuals.
6. Please describe any programming changes, innovations, or enhancements that are planned
during the upcoming funding period.
The community doesn't offer a wide array of grief support services. A couple of churches host support groups
and a group meets at the Stevens Point Library periodically however, nothing consistent. The success of the
Caregiver Support group is partially attributed to the neutrality of the ADRC, its location and staff experience.
The Caregiver Services Manager intends to become a certified grief support group facilitator and will offer an
additional support group to community members in 2027.
7. Is there a fee for your
program services?
No
7a. Do you have a sliding
fee scale?
No
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 22 of 70
Page 62 of 110
7b. Please explain your program's rationale for this decision.
n/a
8. Describe how you use In-Kind and volunteer resources to contribute to and enhance your
program.
The RSVP program periodically provides volunteers who assist with services/activities for Caregiver Support
Services including the Adult Day Center and the Dementia Care programs. Examples encompass utilizing
volunteers for caregiver events and conference set-ups, mentors for other caregivers, support group peers,
Memory Cafe and Virtual Dementia Tour assistants and Adult Day Center activity facilitation.
In addition, our continued partnership with UWSP enables us to recruit interns as well who assist in the
programming listed above.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 23 of 70
Page 63 of 110
Program Budget - 2027 ApplicationAging and Disabilty Resource Center - Caregiver Support Services
Program Budget
You may save your work at any time by clicking on the "Save My Work" link/icon at the bottom or top
of the page.
When you have completed all questions on the form, select the "Save My Work and Mark as
Completed" link/icon at the bottom or top of this page.
You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the
upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be
saved.
Revenue
2026 Budget
2026 Actual
(1/1/26
- 6/30/26) 2027 Proposed
$ Difference
(2026
Budget - 2027
Proposed)
% Difference
(2026
Budget / 2027
Proposed)
United Way Allocations 22,867 22,867 0 0
Contributions 0 0
Special Events 0 0
Other Public Support 0 0
Government Support 63,250 9,503 55,544 -7,706 -12.18
Foundations & Private
Grants
0 0
Dues / Fees 0 0
Sales To Public 0 0
Investment Income 0 0
Miscellaneous (Click to
itemize)
61,351 0 74,157 12,806 20.87
Levy 61,351 74,157
Total 147,468 9,503 152,568 5,100 3.46
Expenses
2026 Budget
2026 Actual
(1/1/26
- 6/30/26) 2027 Proposed
$ Difference
(2026
Budget - 2027
Proposed)
% Difference
(2026
Budget / 2027
Proposed)
Salaries 75,505 33,550 77,468 1,963 2.60
Employee Benefits & Payroll
Taxes
36,660 16,570 39,444 2,784 7.59
Professional Fees 0 0
Supplies/Printing/Duplicatin
g
2,202 197 1,477 -725 -32.92
Communication 5,979 2,992 6,657 678 11.34
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 24 of 70
Page 64 of 110
2026 Budget
2026 Actual
(1/1/26
- 6/30/26) 2027 Proposed
$ Difference
(2026
Budget - 2027
Proposed)
% Difference
(2026
Budget / 2027
Proposed)
Occupancy 0 0
Rental / Maint. Of Equipment 0 0
Travel 0 0
Conference / Conventions /
Mtgs.
30 0 30 0 0
Scholarships / Grants / Asst.
To Indiv.
0 0
Dues to State / National Org. 0 0
Insurance 0 0
Miscellaneous (Click to
itemize)
27,092 12,260 27,492 400 1.48
Respite Services 19,852 8,462 19,852
Transportation Services 1,500 466 1,500
Supportive Home Care 5,000 3,252 5,000
Food Purchases 740 80 1,140
Total 147,468 65,569 152,568 5,100 3.46
Surplus / Deficit
2026 Budget
2026 Actual
(1/1/26
- 6/30/26) 2027 Proposed
$ Difference
(2026
Budget - 2027
Proposed)
% Difference
(2026
Budget / 2027
Proposed)
Surplus / Deficit 0 -56,066 0 0 0
Reserve and Endowment Funds
Please provide the following information
2026 Budget
2026 Actual
(1/1/26
- 6/30/27) 2027 Proposed
$ Difference
(2026
Budget - 2027
Proposed)
% Difference
(2026
Budget / 2027
Proposed)
Reserved Fund Balance 0 0
Endowment Fund Balance 0 0
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 25 of 70
Page 65 of 110
Client Demographics - 2027 ApplicationAging and Disabilty Resource Center - Caregiver Support Services
Client Demographics
You will not need to report proposed individual demographic category data in the 2027 application.
You will need to continue to collect the individual demographic data in the following categories (Age,
Gender, Race/Ethnicity, Participant Poverty Level, and Elderly or Disabled Poverty Level) as you
always have.
Once collection is completed at the end of 2027, you will enter that data accumulated into the 2027
Year-End Reporting tool to be released in February of 2027.
When you have completed all questions on the form, select the “Save My Work and Mark as
Completed” link/icon at the bottom or top of this page.
You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the
upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be
saved.
Participants
Proposed # Served
2026
Actual # Served
through 6/30/2026
Proposed # Served
2027
Individuals 225 199 211
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 26 of 70
Page 66 of 110
Priority:
H - Priority 1: Support access, affordability, and delivery of mental, behavioral, and physical health
services for community residents.
Strategy:
HP3 A. Provide support and access to resources for community memebers caring for those who
have cognitive, physical, and mental health conditions, either at home or within the community.
Outcome Statement: Caregivers are more knowledgeable about services.
Activity:
Introduce Caregiver Roadmap tool to identify and clarify current caregiver situation, discuss
possible next steps (pitstops), and where/who to contact to find those resources. Provide a
tangible copy of the Roadmap tool to the caregiver so they are able to reference back as
needed.
Activity:
Conduct post survey which assists with identifying resource gaps that still need to be
identified.
Outcome Measurements - 2027 ApplicationAging and Disabilty Resource Center - Caregiver Support Services
Outcome Measurements
Select a Priority, then select a Strategy. Then Enter your outcomes, indicators, and activities.
Strategy
Outcomes
Indicators Proposed results (1/1/27
-12/31/27)
Actual results (1/1/2027 -
12/31/2027)
# and % of caregivers who stated they
became knowledgeable about at least
one resource.
# Served 199
#
Sampled
161
#
Achieving
157
%
Achieving
97.52 0
# and % of caregivers who utilized a
resource outside of CSS/the ADRC.
# Served 199
#
Sampled
161
#
Achieving
87
%
Achieving
54.04 0
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 27 of 70
Page 67 of 110
Outcome Statement: Caregivers experience less stress about caregiving.
Activity:
Pre-survey/discussions will take place with caregivers regarding their situation and current
feelings, ultimately prioritizing emergent needs.
Activity:Ensure consistent follow-up with caregivers via their preferred method.
1. Describe the tools or methods used to collect outcome data. Why are these methods
appropriate for measuring success?
Pre and post surveys are utilized as often as possible. Post surveys are given after every educational
session or at the end of a series. Support group attendees are surveyed monthly.
2. Additional comments regarding outcomes and indicators
Tracking whether or not caregivers utilize services outside of the ADRC continues to be a challenge.
Tracking is doable while continuing to work with clients however, once they no longer participate or are
enrolled in ADRC services, contact usually doesn't exist any longer for various reason (usually due to a
move into a LTC option or they passed away).
Indicators Proposed results (1/1/27
-12/31/27)
Actual results (1/1/2027 -
12/31/2027)
# and % of individuals who said they
were less anxious after utilizing
resources available to them.
# Served 199
#
Sampled
161
#
Achieving
134
%
Achieving
83.23 0
# and % of individuals who have found
time for themselves.
# Served 199
#
Sampled
161
#
Achieving
144
%
Achieving
89.44 0
1. Describe the tools or methods used to collect outcome data. Why are these methods
appropriate for measuring success?
Pre and post surveys are utilized as often as possible. Post surveys are given after every educational
session or at the end of a series. Support group attendees are surveyed monthly.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 28 of 70
Page 68 of 110
2. Additional comments regarding outcomes and indicators
A calendar and spreadsheet is maintained and updated monthly to ensure follow-up with caregiver goals
are being met.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 29 of 70
Page 69 of 110
Key Program Details 2027Aging and Disabilty Resource Center - Caregiver Support Services
Key Program Details 2027
When you have completed all questions on the form, select the "Save My Work and Mark as
Completed" button at the bottom of this page.
You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the
upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be
saved.
Key Details
Explain how your program aligns with the selected Impact Area, priority population, and strategy.
Describe how your activities will advance the intended community outcomes.
Our activities will advance the intended community outcomes by addressing the need for resource
information. Caregiver Support Services aligns with the Impact Area (Healthy Community), priority population,
and strategy by providing direct services to two distinct populations. The multi-purpose program supports
caregivers and care receivers. These services enhance both groups' health by promoting the use of available
resources which, in turn provides relief such as respite and/or other options that makes their journeys a bit
easier. Providing resources and knowledge to caregivers equips them with decision-informed solutions.
Being readily available helps them navigate through these services.
Describe your program model. What are the major services provided, and how do these activities
and services lead to the outcomes you expect participants to achieve?
The major services provided are navigational services, mimicking a roadmap-type of tool called, the
Caregiver Roadmap. This tool was created by Portage County's Caregiver Coalition seven years ago. In a
group setting, quarterly presentations/community conversations take place at the Aging & Disability Resource
Center. Several counties in WI adopted a model within their own communities and ust the tool with their
clients. Counties are invited to shadow the presentation and make revisions that cater to their community's
needs. This tool isn't just used in a group setting. Individually when meeting with clients, this tool has proven to
be a great conversation starter and navigational tool, helping to identify emergent needs and prompting
caregivers with ideas so they know where to start and which questions to even ask. Most of the time, they
don't know where to begin. They are reminded that what they're going through is complicated, stressful, and
generally aren't fun things to shop for and research. The tool provides the opportunity to discuss planning for
the future, including for the caregivers themselves. Often times, caregivers don't outlive their care-receivers. In
addition, caregiver support services programs (Adult Day Center and Dementia Care Specialist) utilize the
roadmap tool as conversation starters when getting to know families.
Finally, several years ago, the State recognized the Caregiver Roadmap tool as a helpful resource and
identified the need for caregivers to become informed and utilize resources beyond the death of their care-
receiver since caregiver responsibilities don't end immediately. The After Caregiving Roadmap tool was
created and resembles closely the original model. Caregiver Support Services is able to use this tool while
working with caregivers for an additional year, assisting them with navigating though community resources
while enduring the grieving process.
Describe how your program coordinates with other organizations, schools, healthcare providers,
or community partners. Explain how these partnerships improve participant outcomes, reduce
duplication of services, or strengthen the community response and impact.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 30 of 70
Page 70 of 110
Our program has many years of experience, passing the baton back and forth and providing appropriate
cares for our mutual clients. We attempt to be as present and transparent as possible, in order to inform
community members of our initiatives and avoid duplication of services. The Caregiver Coalition group,
consisting of 30 community members is a key partnership to assist in improving participant outcomes.
At each meeting, ample time is set-aside to confidentially discuss complex cases that need strategizing.
Enrollment of services usually begins with referrals from relationships built with community partners like
healthcare provides and/or managed care organizations. Having open and honest conversations regarding
whether or not Caregiver Support Services can provide and find appropriate resources or, the ADC can
accommodate care needs and is an appropriate fit as a gap filler program is imperative. Good
communication and providing flexibility is key, while taking an open-minded and thinking outside of the box
approach, helps us identify and align who our partners need to be in unique scenarios. CSS works with
partners and families, again, to hand that baton to the next level/provider. This type of care consultation allows
everyone to be well-informed of the roles we all play and strengthens the community response and impact as
trust is established. We become dependable and important partners.
Describe the ways you sustain this program beyond United Way funding. Include other major
funding sources, partnerships, or organizational resources that contribute to long-term stability.
Caregiver Support Services, in addition to receiving United Way funding, sustains itself through complex,
multiple channels. A small percentage of the State and Federal caregiver grants received annually provide the
salary for the Caregiver Services Manager and the remainder of the funds provide direct service dollars to
caregivers. The manager oversees the Adult Day Center and Dementia Care Specialist programs therefore,
time reporting determines the allocation from those programs. Finally levy dollars are used for the remainder.
Provide a brief explanation of your funding request. Describe how the requested United Way
investment will be used and why these expenses are necessary to achieve the proposed
outcomes.
As mentioned above, State and Federal dollars are received each year to sustain Caregiver Support
Services however, the funds are unpredictable and fluctuate. Also, levy dollars are used. Funding from United
Way allows reassurance that the programming is sustainable. The funds have been proving to meet a vital
community need that is and will be a growing need. In fact, caregiving seems to be escalating into a
responsibility that is magnifying.
Explain any significant increases or decreases in proposed program revenue or expenses.
Consistency is expected therefore, not anticipating significant increases or decreases.
Please reflect on your program's performance during the previous funding period. Describe any
significant differences between your proposed and actual results (whether higher or lower than
targeted), what contributed to those results, and how those lessons have informed your plans for
the upcoming year.
Expecting another solid and consistent year providing caregiving support. The addition of an average of two
new caregivers each month and attrition not being a significant issue, keeps the number of clients served
climbing.
The upcoming year will probably reflect an uptick in growth. Three new partnerships have been created within
the healthcare community. Two new providers at Aspirus and one at Noble clinic have been established. One
is a participant on the Roadmap Panel, one is providing regular referrals to the Dementia Care Specialist
and the last promotes our services and class offerings at her office.
Explain how each proposed outcome is meaningful for the participants you serve.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 31 of 70
Page 71 of 110
The proposed outcomes are meaningful for the participants served in a two-fold way. Rarely do caregivers
know where to begin or what questions to ask. Knowledge is power so the more they learn, the more in
control and confident they begin to feel, thus alleviating some stress. Assisting with navigating through
services and letting them build on one another, amplifies this for them. This leaves them feeling like they can
handle more and are ready to take on the next thing. Suddenly, caregiving doesn't seem as overwhelming.
Additionally, meeting others experiencing the same ordeal only reassures them they're doing the best they
can and provides a social outlet. In the meantime, contacts have been made so now they're becoming more
aware of additional resources available as their situation changes. Sometimes we're helping them navigate
back and forth for a while on the roadmap of services or, we're assisting them with choice and decision that
have to be made for the difficult days ahead. Either way, the more equipped, educated and well-versed
caregivers are regarding resources available at hand, the less stressed the are.
How will evaluation results be used to improve program quality or participant outcomes?
Evaluation results are used to improve and enhance program quality regularly. For an example, after the
caregiver conference each November, surveys tell us what content caregivers would like to hear the next year.
Some topics have been revisited each year (advance directives seems to be a hot topic) and those that
weren't so popular have been discontinued. Identifying the needs of caregivers and care receivers is an
ongoing initiative. Additionally, active listening while facilitating caregiver support groups is helpful as well.
Although not a formal evaluation, topics repeatedly discussed prove to be important material to expound on
and add to our planning process. Content during our outreach that we provide, aim to complement the
services at home and are another layer of enhancing participants' quality of life.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 32 of 70
Page 72 of 110
Publicity and Marketing - ApplicationAging and Disabilty Resource Center - Caregiver Support Services
Publicity and Marketing
The success of the United Way Campaign depends on our ability to communicate to donors the needs
in our community and the impact of programs such as yours. The information gathered on this form
will be used for publicity and marketing purposes including, but not limited to; e-newsletters, website,
Facebook, etc.
Please consider the questions, found by selecting the green question mark, as you complete your
success story to in order to make it more compelling to donors and the general public.
Client Success Story
Agency Contact for
Success Story:
Tonia Simmons
Phone Number for
Success Story:
(715) 343-6305
Restate the outcome the story links to:
Caregivers are more knowledgeable about services.
Success Story (Please select the green question mark to review and consider the questions as you
complete your success story to in order to make it more compelling to donors and the general
public)
Last November, Andy attended the annual caregiver conference at the ADRC. He had been working with and
Information & Assistance Specialist and was encouraged to attend. Andy began caregiving for his wife,
Karen a couple years ago and was struggling with 'keeping up.' Andy was also experiencing some of his own
health issues and was concerned about who would continue taking care of Karen, should something happen
to him. Karen was diagnosed with dementia and couldn't be left alone. In order for Andy to be able to attend
the conference he needed someone to stay with Karen. They didn't have children and he wasn't comfortable
leaving her with friends due to her complex care needs. Staff at the ADRC were able to connect him with the
Adult Day Center, located within the ADRC and enrolled Karen in the drop-in respite service. Andy was able
to attend the conference that was in the same building where Karen attended respite services. At the end of
the day, Andy was thrilled to hear that Karen had a great day at the center and socialized most of the time with
other participants. Andy was so relieved that everything went well, he decided to enroll in the upcoming
Powerful Tools for Caregivers six-week class. This class is an evidence-based class offered quarterly at the
ADRC. It teaches caregivers skills to use for themselves (dealing with family dynamics, communicating with
medical teams, goal setting, relaxation techniques, using 'I' statements, etc.). Andy was able to meet others in
this class who were going through stressors similar to what he was experiencing. He was able to drop-off
Karen in the Adult Day Center at the start of each class each week and pick her up afterwards. He even
occasionally had time after to grab a cup of coffee with a new friend he met in the class before picking up
(again, they were in the same building) Karen. Andy was beginning to look forward to these outings and was
disappointed when the class ended. He mentioned that to the facilitator. Together, they contacted Karen's
case manager at the managed care organization they worked with and received an authorization for Karen to
be able to attend the Adult Day Center regularly. Karen attends the center two full days each week. Andy has
been able to get caught up on household chores and his own appointments as a result. He's even thinking
about adding another day to Karen's schedule.
I grant United Way permission to use the information provided on this form publicly.
Yes
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 33 of 70
Page 73 of 110
Aging and Disabilty Resource Center - Preventative Health Education - Program Information 2027
Application
Aging and Disabilty Resource Center - Preventative Health Education
Program Information
You may save your work at any time by clicking on the "Save My Work" link/icon at the bottom or top
of the page.
When you have completed all questions on the form, select the "Save My Work and Mark as
Completed" link/icon at the bottom or top of this page.
You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the
upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be
saved.
General Information
Program Name Preventative Health Education
Primary Contact Dana Lawson, email: lawsonda@co.portage.wi.gov
Funding Received
United Way of Portage
County Funding received
in 2026
29,600.00
Funding Request For This Application Period
2027 Requested Amount 29,600.00
Program Alignment, Priority and Strategy
Impact Area and Descriptions: Youth Opportunity: United Way will partner with evidenced-based
programs that are most effective in helping our children from birth through high school succeed in
education and in life. Financial Security: United Way will partner with evidenced-based programs that
give community members a chance for a brighter future, and a path toward achieving financial
stability. Healthy Communities: United Way will partner with evidenced-based programs that improve
behavioral, mental and physical health wellness. Community Resiliency: United Way will lead and/or
partner with programs that address short-term needs, strengthen local systems, and build a culture
of preparedness.
Select the impact area
your program closely
aligns
with:
Healthy Community
Program Overview
1. Please describe the purpose of your program and the community need is addressing. Include:
the program your program will address, the population served, local data or community
assessments that demonstrate the need (such as the LIFE report, agency data, or other sources),
and why your organization is well-positioned to address the need.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 34 of 70
Page 74 of 110
Evidence-based programs improve health, quality of life, and independence for older adults and adults living
with disabilities. They also have been shown to lower healthcare costs, reduce strain on emergency medical
systems, increase community engagement and reduce social isolation.
The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that approximately 71,000 residents live in Portage County, with 18.3%
aged 65 and older. Currently, 25.2% of our population is 60 and older, meaning one in four Portage County
residents is in this age group, and one in five is 65 or older. Furthermore, the Wisconsin Department of Health
Services projects that the older adult population will increase by 30% by 2050. As the number of older adults
grows, so does the prevalence of chronic conditions, the risk of falls, social isolation, and the need for
programs that support healthy aging and independence.
When conducting a community survey to develop the 2024 – 2028 Aging Plan, The ADRC of Portage County
found that 42% of Portage County Seniors identified Healthy Aging Programs as their most important service
need. When asked where they would prefer to live as they age within their current community, 70% selected
remaining in their current home as their preference.
The ADRC of Portage County and Lincoln Senior Center are a trusted source of information, spaces for older
adults and adults with disabilities. We offer a variety of evidence-based programs to address a variation of
health needs. The ADRC has also developed an infrastructure which enables us to deliver these programs in
rural portage county as well as in Stevens Point. We currently serve Rosholt, Amherst, Junction City, and
Plover in addition to Stevens Point.
2. What type of barriers are you helping program participants overcome?
Building better habits is sometimes hard. Older adults face the same challenges of sticking to a new exercise
or wellness behavior that people of all ages do. Our programs offer a variety of empowering solutions for
participants to find and practice healthy lifestyle changes that work best for them, connect with peers who
share similar challenges and goals, and build on successes. This fosters a sense of belonging, promotes
program adherence, and enhances overall wellbeing. Our evidence based programs are designed
specifically to help adults overcome barriers to a healthier lifestyle.
Older adults also experience transportation barriers, especially during winter. We collaborate with our rural
dining sites and community partners to reach community members who aren’t comfortable or able to drive.
We offer hybrid exercise programs that allow homebound older adults access to programming. We also time
programming to be convenient for public transportation options.
Our evidence-based programs are designed to remove uncertainty from the health improvement process.
Our educational workshops help participants identify their specific barriers, develop personalized action
plans, and implement healthy behavior changes that are sustainable and effective. In addition, our ongoing
exercise classes are offered with modification options to meet individual needs and ensure a supportive and
customized experience for everyone. These ongoing classes also help reduce social isolation and loneliness
in the people we serve.
3. What evidence-based or evidence-informed practices or "best practice" are used by your
program to inform your program design? Why are these approaches appropriate for your target
population? Please reference specific research supported strategies the program implements. If
your program has been adapted, describe those adaptations.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 35 of 70
Page 75 of 110
We offer various high-level evidence-based and evidence-informed programs designed to enhance well-
being among older adults and adults with disabilities. Federally supported, high-level evidence-based
programs must adhere to strict standards established by the Administration for Community Living (ACL).
These programs have been proven effective in improving health and well-being, or reducing disease,
disability, and/or injury among our target population. Their effectiveness is validated through peer-reviewed
research and practical implementation in real-world settings.
Our workshops, such as Bingocize, Stepping On, Mind Over Matter, and Healthy Living with Chronic
Conditions, utilize techniques such as self-efficacy building, goal setting, action planning, problem solving,
and social support. These help participants build the knowledge and confidence needed to maintain healthy
behaviors.
We also provide ongoing exercise opportunities like StrongBodies and Fun & Fit, which utilize evidence-
based exercise programs to help participants reinforce skills learned in workshops and promote social
connections while leading active lifestyles. Our evidence-informed programs, such as Tai Chi and Cardio
Drumming, have been adapted from national and state programs to better meet the needs of older adults.
For example, our Tai Chi leader, a retired physical therapist, has simplified her class routine to include
movements that improve balance, strength, and joint health.
In addition, we integrate evidence-based principles and practices into our events and educational activities.
We focus on creating interactive experiences that encourage skill practice, goal setting, and the development
of practical strategies for daily living.
4. Is there anything else you would like to share about your program?
Our goal is to provide a diverse range of opportunities to ensure there is something for everyone, regardless
of where they start their health journey. Participants can discover what works best for them at any time. Some
participants may attend only one class for years before trying anything else, while others might attend multiple
programs regularly, or even wait years before trying something new. Ultimately, we are pleased to see our
programs providing the community with opportunities for long-term health management.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 36 of 70
Page 76 of 110
Additional Program Information 2027Aging and Disabilty Resource Center - Preventative Health Education
Additional Program Information
You may save your work at any time by clicking on the "Save My Work" link/icon at the bottom or top
of the page.
When you have completed all questions on the form, select the "Save My Work and Mark as
Completed" link/icon at the bottom or top of this page.
You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the
upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be
saved.
Program Background
1. Provide an example of how program data has been used to improve or change the program's
services or design. Include what changes were made and what impact those changes have had.
We are seeing growth across our programs. We work to allow our programs grow as much as possible.
Following increased participation in Strong Bodies in Amherst at the Jensen Center. We assessed class
sizes and equipment usage and needs along with attendance numbers and survey's. Based on the data
collected, we then purchased additional equipment where necessary and redistributed existing equipment
where needed. We then continued to monitor feedback and solicit input from instructors about space and
equipment issues, providing solutions as necessary, such as reconfiguring class layouts and sharing weights
when possible.
As the class became more popular, we explored options for recruiting more leaders and providing additional
class times. Our current leaders successfully recruited two new leaders from within the class, we invested in
trailing the new leaders. We also collaborated with Jensen Center to expand our rental agreement, which
allowed us to add two extra classes to the schedule.
In late 2024, we introduced two new classes: one from 10:30 to 11:45 and an earlier class from 8:30 to 9:45.
By scheduling these classes back-to-back with a short break in between, members can connect between
sessions. This new timetable also supports our ongoing growth at this location, which we have already
observed, as each class now has over 30 participants. Based on feedback from participants, we've learned
they also appreciate the flexibility of attending either class on any given class day, as it allows them flexibility
within their own schedules. Having four leaders at this site ensures someone is always available to lead,
minimizing the need to cancel classes and increasing the class's accessibility.
2. If you are asking for an increase in your allocation for 2027, please tell us why.
N/A
3. Please describe your outreach activities to ensure you reach the target populations throughout
Portage County. Describe how you identify, reach, and engage your priority population. Include
how you reduce barriers to participation (transportation, language, cost, scheduling, disability
access, etc) and how you reach rural or underserved residents when applicable.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 37 of 70
Page 77 of 110
We use various strategies to reach our target populations, both active and passive, which include digital
marketing, print media, word-of-mouth, community presentations, formal and informal referral systems, and
more.
We identify our target populations based on the focus of each individual program, as our programs are
generally aimed at helping specific populations improve specific health concerns. For example, we will share
information about an upcoming Healthy Living with Chronic Pain workshop with a local chronic conditions
support group, assuming some of the members struggle with chronic pain, as well as our Fun & Fit class,
considering it targets individuals who have arthritis, pain, and stiffness.
Additionally, we offer programs and community talks at various locations throughout the county to reach and
engage our target populations, such as libraries, dining sites, and apartment complexes.
To accommodate varying physical and scheduling needs, we schedule programs on varying days, times, and
seasons, which we believe allows community members to stay engaged throughout the year, choose
programs that meet their needs, and encourage participation in our other programs.
We reduce transportation barriers by partnering with Central Transportation, who can offer eligible
participants rides to and from anywhere in the county to attend our programs.
To keep programs accessible, we keep costs low, with over half donation-based and the others at only $2 per
session. During the workshop recruitment process, we utilize pre-screening tools that serve two important
purposes: ensuring each participant is within the target population for the program, and ensuring we can
make accommodation when needed, such as providing larger print media for participants with low vision and
seating participants with hearing concerns closer to the facilitators.
To reach residents in our target population who are low-income, we work with program partners who are
already reaching low-income seniors, such as the Stockbox program, which connects low-income seniors in
Portage County with boxes of food every month.
Through our work with the Portage County Healthy Aging Coalition, which is comprised of local partners from
a variety of sectors, we can increase referrals and combine resources to offer opportunities for learning and
exposing our programming to more community members.
4. Does your program
have a waiting list?
No
4a. Describe current demand for the program, particularly if on a waitlist. If demand exceeds
capacity, explain how participants are prioritized and if you have been able to reduce the numbers
waiting for services.
Many of our ongoing programs have expanded over the years. While we are approaching capacity in some
areas, we have not yet had to turn anyone away. To prevent this situation, we continuously monitor and adjust
our programs as necessary. For example, recruiting more leaders to offer additional class times for groups
that have outgrown their space. Additionally, we have introduced new offerings to accommodate more
participants. By providing a variety of options and class times, we can serve a larger number of people.
5. Describe how participant feedback is collected and how it has influenced program
improvements.
We have found that one-on-one conversations are the best way to engage our target population. We find they
appreciate it when we take time to connect with them directly by calling them individually or stopping by
before or after programming to check on their progress and discuss issues and ideas. We utilize feedback
from community presentations, surveys, and past participants, as well as input from the Healthy Aging
Coalition, to guide our decision-making and improve our programs.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 38 of 70
Page 78 of 110
6. Please describe any programming changes, innovations, or enhancements that are planned
during the upcoming funding period.
We are currently monitoring growth at our Plover Strong Bodies classes. As we approach the threshold for
expansion, we’ve begun collecting feedback from leaders and participants to identify opportunities,
preferences, and ideas for the class. In 2027, we may need to adjust the schedule, including the time, days, or
even the location, if necessary.
We are also actively working toward bringing back the Healthy Living with Chronic Pain program in
partnership with the Portage County Prevent Suicide Coalition, which helps participants build confidence in
their ability to manage pain through goal setting, gentle movement, relaxation, feedback and problem-solving,
stress and depression management, and communicating effectively with friends, family, and healthcare
teams. So far, we have two facilitators registered to train in October, and we plan to offer the program in the
early evenings, sometime in early 2027.
This year we piloted a new program called Bingocize, which helps sedentary adults with disabilities and older
adults become more active, socially engage with others, and learn about healthy behaviors. This was a
success, as over 30 participants attended the 3-month workshop. We will continue to focus on offering this
program in 2027, including recruiting more volunteers to lead the program.
7. Is there a fee for your
program services?
Yes
7a. Do you have a sliding
fee scale?
Yes
7b. Please explain your program's rationale for this decision.
Many of our programs are already donation-based for people 60 and older, reducing the likelihood that
participants won't attend because of cost. Since we offer two fee-based programs, we provide scholarships
when needed to reduce cost barriers for those who may want to attend those programs. We also see our
donations exceeding our expectations year after year, and we feel this helps offset the costs associated with
non-paying participants. Participants under the age of 60 are required to pay the fee, but may request a
waiver with the Senior Center Manager.
8. Describe how you use In-Kind and volunteer resources to contribute to and enhance your
program.
Our programs are led by volunteers (75%) and community partners (25%). Many of our volunteers come from
the Retired Senior Volunteer Corps, serving as strong advocates and embodying the benefits of evidence-
based programs through ongoing health management, social connections, and peer support. We collaborate
with community partners to enhance program delivery and promote each other’s initiatives, expanding our
reach. For instance, we partner with nutrition and dining site programs to host programs and presentations,
work with healthcare organizations for guest speakers, and collaborate with public libraries to offer
workshops. This teamwork increases visibility for all involved and strengthens community relationships. We
also coordinate with various local organizations and businesses to distribute promotional materials.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 39 of 70
Page 79 of 110
Program Budget - 2027 ApplicationAging and Disabilty Resource Center - Preventative Health Education
Program Budget
You may save your work at any time by clicking on the "Save My Work" link/icon at the bottom or top
of the page.
When you have completed all questions on the form, select the "Save My Work and Mark as
Completed" link/icon at the bottom or top of this page.
You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the
upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be
saved.
Revenue
2026 Budget
2026 Actual
(1/1/26
- 6/30/26) 2027 Proposed
$ Difference
(2026
Budget - 2027
Proposed)
% Difference
(2026
Budget / 2027
Proposed)
United Way Allocations 29,600 14,800 29,600 0 0
Contributions 16,500 11,435 20,000 3,500 21.21
Special Events 0 0
Other Public Support 0 0
Government Support 4,564 1,423 4,263 -301 -6.60
Foundations & Private
Grants
0 0
Dues / Fees 0 0
Sales To Public 0 0
Investment Income 0 0
Miscellaneous (Click to
itemize)
39,906 0 50,052 10,146 25.42
Tax Levy 39,906 50,052
Total 90,570 27,658 103,915 13,345 14.73
Expenses
2026 Budget
2026 Actual
(1/1/26
- 6/30/26) 2027 Proposed
$ Difference
(2026
Budget - 2027
Proposed)
% Difference
(2026
Budget / 2027
Proposed)
Salaries 46,622 25,246 56,584 9,962 21.37
Employee Benefits & Payroll
Taxes
33,396 16,739 37,337 3,941 11.80
Professional Fees 0 0
Supplies/Printing/Duplicatin
g
2,969 937 2,134 -835 -28.12
Communication 4,982 2,504 5,572 590 11.84
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 40 of 70
Page 80 of 110
2026 Budget
2026 Actual
(1/1/26
- 6/30/26) 2027 Proposed
$ Difference
(2026
Budget - 2027
Proposed)
% Difference
(2026
Budget / 2027
Proposed)
Occupancy 0 0
Rental / Maint. Of Equipment 1,100 600 600 -500 -45.45
Travel 697 47 758 61 8.75
Conference / Conventions /
Mtgs.
300 54 350 50 16.67
Scholarships / Grants / Asst.
To Indiv.
0 0
Dues to State / National Org. 25 26 25 0 0
Insurance 0 0
Miscellaneous (Click to
itemize)
479 30 555 76 15.87
Reference/Background
Checks 165 30 180
Advertising 314 0 375
Total 90,570 46,183 103,915 13,345 14.73
Surplus / Deficit
2026 Budget
2026 Actual
(1/1/26
- 6/30/26) 2027 Proposed
$ Difference
(2026
Budget - 2027
Proposed)
% Difference
(2026
Budget / 2027
Proposed)
Surplus / Deficit 0 -18,525 0 0 0
Reserve and Endowment Funds
Please provide the following information
2026 Budget
2026 Actual
(1/1/26
- 6/30/27) 2027 Proposed
$ Difference
(2026
Budget - 2027
Proposed)
% Difference
(2026
Budget / 2027
Proposed)
Reserved Fund Balance 0 0
Endowment Fund Balance 0 0
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 41 of 70
Page 81 of 110
Client Demographics - 2027 ApplicationAging and Disabilty Resource Center - Preventative Health Education
Client Demographics
You will not need to report proposed individual demographic category data in the 2027 application.
You will need to continue to collect the individual demographic data in the following categories (Age,
Gender, Race/Ethnicity, Participant Poverty Level, and Elderly or Disabled Poverty Level) as you
always have.
Once collection is completed at the end of 2027, you will enter that data accumulated into the 2027
Year-End Reporting tool to be released in February of 2027.
When you have completed all questions on the form, select the “Save My Work and Mark as
Completed” link/icon at the bottom or top of this page.
You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the
upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be
saved.
Participants
Proposed # Served
2026
Actual # Served
through 6/30/2026
Proposed # Served
2027
Individuals 440 335 450
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 42 of 70
Page 82 of 110
Priority: H - Priority 3: Support community members in managing health challenges.
Strategy:
HP3 B. Support the delivery of evidenced-based programming that coordinates resources to
provide comprehensive support to individuals with challenges to achieving healthy living.
Outcome Statement:
Participants will better manage their health by demonstrating lasting behavior change.
Activity:
Offer various programs that allow participants to learn how to make healthy behavior changes
that improve their health.
Activity:Offer ongoing classes in rural areas.
Outcome Measurements - 2027 ApplicationAging and Disabilty Resource Center - Preventative Health Education
Outcome Measurements
Select a Priority, then select a Strategy. Then Enter your outcomes, indicators, and activities.
Strategy
Outcomes
Indicators Proposed results (1/1/27
-12/31/27)
Actual results (1/1/2027 -
12/31/2027)
Participants will report healthy
behavior changes between 3- and 6-
months follow-up surveys.
# Served 450
#
Sampled
111
#
Achieving
101
%
Achieving
90.99 0
Participants will enroll in additional
evidence-based health programs.
# Served 450
#
Sampled
335
#
Achieving
50
%
Achieving
14.93 0
1. Describe the tools or methods used to collect outcome data. Why are these methods
appropriate for measuring success?
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 43 of 70
Page 83 of 110
We regularly distribute surveys to track changes in behavior among participants in our exercise classes
and workshops. This allows us to compare data from before and after participation, helping us assess
the effectiveness of our programs in fostering long-term behavior change. Exercise class surveys are
provided to participants at the end of each quarter, while workshop surveys are given at the end of each
workshop and again 3 to 6 months later.
Tracking multi-enrollments helps us identify overall participation trends as well as trends among
individual participants. We can also gain insights into cross-promotion successes and track our
participants' progress and involvement across the various programs we offer. We track multiple
evidence-based enrollments by generating a report using PeerPlace, a federal reporting software we
use for monthly attendance reporting.
2. Additional comments regarding outcomes and indicators
Almost all participants reported making healthy behavior changes after attending our programs, and
15% have signed up for additional evidence-based programs within the first half of the year. We believe
Outcome Statement: Participants will experience feelings of reduced isolation.
Activity:
Offer ongoing classes that allow participants to enroll all year long to sustain social
connections and foster friendships.
Activity:Offer ongoing classes in rural areas.
Activity:Offer workshops in multiple formats; online and in-person.
15% have signed up for additional evidence-based programs within the first half of the year. We believe
this is a strong indicator of successful long-term health management and program efficacy.
Indicators Proposed results (1/1/27
-12/31/27)
Actual results (1/1/2027 -
12/31/2027)
Participants who score a six or above
on the UCLA Loneliness scale at the
start of a program will report an
improved score between 3- and 6-
months follow-up surveys.
# Served 450
#
Sampled
8
#
Achieving
5
%
Achieving
62.50 0
Participants will report making at least
one social connection while
participating in evidence-based
programs.
# Served 450
#
Sampled
109
#
Achieving
96
%
Achieving
88.07 0
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 44 of 70
Page 84 of 110
1. Describe the tools or methods used to collect outcome data. Why are these methods
appropriate for measuring success?
Monitoring loneliness among our participants allows us to assess whether our programs foster
connections among participants, whether they attend our programs to socialize, whether our offerings
are inclusive and welcoming, and whether a participant may need additional support. To track this, we
utilize the UCLA 3-Question Loneliness Scale, as it is evidence-based and simple enough to include in
registration forms and surveys. We also survey participants about the social connections they make and
maintain while attending our programs. We believe these methods effectively demonstrate the social
benefits our programs provide.
2. Additional comments regarding outcomes and indicators
Some participants attend our programs primarily to work on their health goals, but most come to
connect with others as well. This social support plays a crucial role in program adherence and overall
success. The data we collect is clear: 88% of participants report making at least one meaningful
connection while attending our programs, and over half (63%) indicate an improved loneliness score
after participating for 3 to 6 months. Additionally, we receive numerous comments from participants
highlighting the importance of the social aspect of our programs.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 45 of 70
Page 85 of 110
Key Program Details 2027Aging and Disabilty Resource Center - Preventative Health Education
Key Program Details 2027
When you have completed all questions on the form, select the "Save My Work and Mark as
Completed" button at the bottom of this page.
You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the
upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be
saved.
Key Details
Explain how your program aligns with the selected Impact Area, priority population, and strategy.
Describe how your activities will advance the intended community outcomes.
ADRC Health Promotion Programs offer a wide range of programs to support comprehensive health
management for older adults and adults with disabilities in our community. Our programs are both accessible
and affordable, promoting social wellness and minimizing barriers to participation. Overall, our programs
provide a safe space for the older adults in our community to find peer support while addressing their health
maintenance needs at an affordable cost.
Evidence-based health programs are shown to improve health and well-being among older adults,
contributing to the overall wellness of the community. These programs help reduce disease, disability, and
injury among older adults, enabling community members to achieve healthy living and address challenges to
healthy living.
Describe your program model. What are the major services provided, and how do these activities
and services lead to the outcomes you expect participants to achieve?
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 46 of 70
Page 86 of 110
We offer various programs to create a continuous range of opportunities, from awareness and education to
skill development, practice, reinforcement, and lasting behavior change to support health, independence, and
quality of life.
We work to meet individuals where they are at by offering a spectrum of evidence based opportunities. Adults
can progress from sedentary to more active engagement as they are able. We insure that all of our programs
are accessible and our leaders are trained to help adults safety adapt exercises to their ability levels.
We create engaging, inspiring, and educational opportunities by utilizing approaches and program elements
learned from our evidence-based classes. For instance, we might include a brainstorming session to
enhance adult learning, or we may teach a simple seated exercise from one of our ongoing classes during a
community presentation.
Our educational workshops allow participants to address health challenges by building skills and habits with
proven strategies. Stepping On, a 7-week, multifactorial program, reduces falls through simple balance and
strength exercises, overcoming barriers to regular exercise, and learning how to identify and address
individual risk factors such as vision, medication, footwear, and environment. Mind Over Matter, a 1-month
workshop for women over 50, addresses incontinence through education, goal-setting, and simple lifestyle
changes such as pelvic floor exercises, changes to fluid and fiber intake, and communicating with healthcare
teams. Bingocize, a 10-week workshop that can be adapted for ongoing programming needs, addresses
social isolation and sedentariness while promoting independence through game-based learning, social
connection, and exercises proven to improve mobility and strength. Healthy Living with Chronic Pain is a 6-
week workshop that helps participants learn strategies for understanding and managing pain, managing
stress and depression, communicating with friends, family, and healthcare teams about pain, and planning for
the future.
Our ongoing exercise opportunities reinforce the concepts learned in our workshops and promote long-term
health maintenance. Participants may notice familiar exercises from these workshops in our programs.
StrongBodies targets all the major muscle groups through progressive strength training, making daily living
activities easier. Fun & Fit focuses on range of motion, endurance, and stretching to enhance joint health and
mobility. Our modified Tai Chi program emphasizes slow, controlled movements to improve balance, strength,
and mobility. Meanwhile, our Cardio Drumming class combines aerobic activity, balance exercises, and
music to create an enjoyable way to enhance coordination, cardiovascular health, and muscle tone.
Describe how your program coordinates with other organizations, schools, healthcare providers,
or community partners. Explain how these partnerships improve participant outcomes, reduce
duplication of services, or strengthen the community response and impact.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 47 of 70
Page 87 of 110
Evidence Based Health Programs at the ADRC of Portage County collaborate with community partners to
better meet community needs, increase exposure and referrals, and decrease duplicated efforts. Many of our
partnerships stem from our work with local coalitions such as the Rural Community Connections Taskforce
(RCCT) and the Portage County Healthy Aging Coalition (PCHAC). RCCT was established in 2023 to
address social isolation in Portage County and involves partner organizations ranging from public health to
community planning and zoning. We have strengthened relationships with many community organizations
through our work on this coalition, including with the Public Library to offer Stepping On workshops and CAP
services Mental Health Navigation program for community events education and support.
In addition to RCCT, we chair the Portage County Healthy Aging Coalition (PCHAC). PCHAC is a group of
professionals and community members dedicated to promoting healthy aging in Portage County, ensuring
that all can thrive. We envision a community where everyone can create their own path to healthy aging and
feel supported, accepted, and valued along the way. Our mission is to empower the community with
knowledge, resources, and proven programs that promote healthy aging. The Portage County Healthy Aging
Coalition meets semi-monthly to accomplish several ongoing goals and hosts an annual Falls Prevention
Event in September to promote community education and resource sharing. Many of our professional
speakers have come from this coalition, as have some of the major projects we've worked on with other
organizations.
One key partner project involves a collaboration with University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UWSP) Doctor
of Physical Therapy students and staff offers free mobility screening and balance training at Lincoln Center,
community events, and soon home visits for home-bound community members. This helps meet the needs of
community members who are not yet ready to participate in evidence-based programs by helping them tackle
mobility challenges and fears and gain confidence to become more active.
Another project involves several community partners to reduce fall-related injuries. This initiative, known as
the Falls Review Team, consists of professionals from public health, emergency medical services (EMS),
healthcare systems, the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC), and the University of Wisconsin-
Stevens Point Doctor of Physical Therapy program. So far, we have expanded a referral system established
with the North Central Regional Trauma Advisory Council to include the Stevens Point and Plover Fire/EMS
departments, in addition to the Amherst EMS, which was originally included in the program.
Describe the ways you sustain this program beyond United Way funding. Include other major
funding sources, partnerships, or organizational resources that contribute to long-term stability.
Our programs are additionally sustained by voluntary donations from participants, the generous time and
talent of our volunteer leaders, and in-kind support from our community partners. The program also receives
Title IIID Funding from the Older Americans Act.
Provide a brief explanation of your funding request. Describe how the requested United Way
investment will be used and why these expenses are necessary to achieve the proposed
outcomes.
Funds from United Way are used to support staff time, volunteer training, and supplies to deliver a suite of
programs that support the improved health and safety of older adults and adults with disabilities in Portage
County. Funds from the Older American's Act and voluntary donations are highly variable. Funds from the
United Way have stabilized our ability to provide consistent programing. These funds also allow us to continue
to grow these programs and increase our impact.
Explain any significant increases or decreases in proposed program revenue or expenses.
Program delivery costs remain consistent and no significant changes are expected.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 48 of 70
Page 88 of 110
Please reflect on your program's performance during the previous funding period. Describe any
significant differences between your proposed and actual results (whether higher or lower than
targeted), what contributed to those results, and how those lessons have informed your plans for
the upcoming year.
Our program grew in the previously funded period as expected. Careful program management, thoughtful
delivery, and targeted marketing strategies have grown our program participation. We plan to continue to
grow and expand programming to reach more of our target population. Our strategy of providing proven
programs and expert advise has earned us a strong reputation among older adults in the community. We plan
to continue, with the help of the United Way to provide reliable and consistent opportunities for healthy
behavior change throughout Portage County.
Explain how each proposed outcome is meaningful for the participants you serve.
Improved health management through lasting behavior change is meaningful because participants are
actively seeking opportunities to support their long-term health needs. They're seeking opportunities to gain
knowledge and apply what they learn to make sustainable changes in their everyday lives. Building
knowledge and skills increases their confidence and ability to practice and maintain positive health
behaviors, which reflects the program's outcome goals to support long-term health management.
Participants who experience less social isolation may feel more connected to others, have stronger social
support networks, and experience improved well-being overall. For many participants, the relationships
developed through our programs contribute to the lasting impacts of our programs. Participant experiences
are more enjoyable and expansive thanks to the social aspects of our programs, and they also contribute to
overall program adherence and success.
How will evaluation results be used to improve program quality or participant outcomes?
We use program evaluations to assess effectiveness of volunteer leaders, appraise impact of programming,
and to identify emerging needs.
Evidence Based programs require that leaders maintain fidelity to the program and its delivery to ensure that
the outcomes remain consistent. We oversee volunteers and ensure that they are appropriately trained and
have tools needed.
If we identify an area of concern regarding any program aspects, we address them by working with our
volunteers and classes to find solutions and ensure program fidelity is met.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 49 of 70
Page 89 of 110
Publicity and Marketing - ApplicationAging and Disabilty Resource Center - Preventative Health Education
Publicity and Marketing
The success of the United Way Campaign depends on our ability to communicate to donors the needs
in our community and the impact of programs such as yours. The information gathered on this form
will be used for publicity and marketing purposes including, but not limited to; e-newsletters, website,
Facebook, etc.
Please consider the questions, found by selecting the green question mark, as you complete your
success story to in order to make it more compelling to donors and the general public.
Client Success Story
Agency Contact for
Success Story:
Dana Lawson
Phone Number for
Success Story:
(715) 346-1914
Restate the outcome the story links to:
Participants will better manage their health by demonstrating lasting behavior change. Participants will
experience reduced feelings of social isolation.
Success Story (Please select the green question mark to review and consider the questions as you
complete your success story to in order to make it more compelling to donors and the general
public)
This is what I wrote about Harold: Meet Harold, a retired mail carrier who turned 81 this year. He lives at home
in Rosholt with his daughter, who works during the day in Stevens Point. Unfortunately, Harold's cognitive and
physical health have declined over the past few years, and being home alone has not been beneficial for him.
To address this, his caretaker helped him sign up for two rural dining sites nearby, as well as Strong Bodies
classes held at those sites.
In the beginning, the leaders noticed that they could sometimes make him smile, but those smiles were rare,
as he typically just sat and watched. However, over time, Harold began to open up and move more. Although
he wasn't able to perform all the exercises, he participated in what he could and found enjoyment in it. He also
liked interacting with the other participants, who encouraged him and made him feel welcome.
Eventually, we invited him to come to Lincoln Center instead of the outside sites. At Lincoln Center, he could
attend our adult day center, take part in Strong Bodies classes, and enjoy meals with others. His caretaker
reported that the program has been incredibly beneficial for him, noting that his demeanor has changed "like
night and day" since he started. She mentioned that he looks forward to the classes, which help him stay
active, a priority for him, as he has always been an active person. We are absolutely thrilled to contribute to
Harold's journey towards a richer, more fulfilling quality of life!
I grant United Way permission to use the information provided on this form publicly.
Yes
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 50 of 70
Page 90 of 110
Aging and Disabilty Resource Center - Rural Delivered Meals - Program Information 2027 ApplicationAging and Disabilty Resource Center - Rural Delivered Meals
Program Information
You may save your work at any time by clicking on the "Save My Work" link/icon at the bottom or top
of the page.
When you have completed all questions on the form, select the "Save My Work and Mark as
Completed" link/icon at the bottom or top of this page.
You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the
upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be
saved.
General Information
Program Name Rural Delivered Meals
Primary Contact Rochelle Drexler
Funding Received
United Way of Portage
County Funding received
in 2026
45,650.00
Funding Request For This Application Period
2027 Requested Amount 50,650.00
Program Alignment, Priority and Strategy
Impact Area and Descriptions: Youth Opportunity: United Way will partner with evidenced-based
programs that are most effective in helping our children from birth through high school succeed in
education and in life. Financial Security: United Way will partner with evidenced-based programs that
give community members a chance for a brighter future, and a path toward achieving financial
stability. Healthy Communities: United Way will partner with evidenced-based programs that improve
behavioral, mental and physical health wellness. Community Resiliency: United Way will lead and/or
partner with programs that address short-term needs, strengthen local systems, and build a culture
of preparedness.
Select the impact area
your program closely
aligns
with:
Healthy Community
Program Overview
1. Please describe the purpose of your program and the community need is addressing. Include:
the program your program will address, the population served, local data or community
assessments that demonstrate the need (such as the LIFE report, agency data, or other sources),
and why your organization is well-positioned to address the need.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 51 of 70
Page 91 of 110
The Older Americans Act, Section 331 states its purpose is (1) to reduce hunger and food insecurity; (2) to
promote socialization of older individuals; (3) to promote the health and well-being of older individuals by
assisting such individuals to gain access to nutrition and other disease prevention and health promotion
services to delay the onset of adverse health conditions resulting from poor nutrition health or sedentary
behavior. The ADRC accomplishes this through nutrition education; nutrition screening and intervention of
participants; offering wholesome, delicious meals through the promotion and maintenance of high standards
of food safety and sanitation; promoting or maintaining coordination with nutrition-related and other
supportive services for older individuals; and targets older adults who have the greatest economic or social
need with particular attention to low-income minority and rural individuals.
The Rural Home Delivered Meal Program strives to help older adults maintain independence, safety, and
dignity in the home of their choice through nourishing meals to homebound clients on a contribution basis,
with options for daily deliveries and additional frozen meals to ensure access to seven meals per week. The
program addresses needs that extend beyond hunger, including poor nutrition, social isolation, declining
health, and difficulty remaining safely at home.
The Wisconsin Aging Advocacy Network reported in April 2026 that nearly 3 in 10 Wisconsinites will be age
60 or older by 2030. Almost 95% have at least one chronic condition, and nearly 80% have 2 or more. Most
chronic conditions can be controlled or prevented by proper nutrition.
Local data demonstrates that needs will continue to grow. According to the 2023 LIFE Report, Portage
County's population age 65 and older is projected to increase by nearly 25% by 2040. Financial vulnerability
compounds this need. Approximately one-third of Portage County households live at or below the ALICE
threshold, and 23.3% of county residents age 65 and older live below 200% of the federal poverty level.
Program utilization further demonstrates the need. From January through June 2026, the Rural Home
Delivered Meal Program served 255 unduplicated participants compared with 183 during for the same time
frame in calendar year 2025.
The Rural Home Delivered Meal Program is well-positioned to respond through an established, community-
supported model that combines nutrition, volunteer-delivered safety checks, staff follow-up, and strong
partnerships with aging, healthcare, and human service organizations. These relationships allow us to
connect participants with existing community resources when needs extend beyond nutrition rather than
duplicating services.
Together, the LIFE Report, local economic data, and our own program experience demonstrate a growing
population of older residents facing financial, nutrition, health, and independence challenges. The Rural Home
Delivered Meal Program provides practical support that helps these vulnerable community members
remained nourished, connected, and safely living in the home of their choice.
2. What type of barriers are you helping program participants overcome?
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 52 of 70
Page 92 of 110
The Rural Home Delivered Meal Program strives to help seniors overcome critical barriers to health and
independence including
-Food insecurity caused by limited income (many participants live on fixed social security benefits and must
choose between paying for utilities, medication, or food).
-Limited mobility and isolation that make it difficult to shop for or prepare nutritious meals.
-Health risks such as malnutrition, which is linked to chronic conditions like hypertension, heart disease,
diabetes, and osteoporosis.
The Rural Home Delivered Meal Program provides meals that meet 1/3 of the adult daily recommended
nutritional requirements and comply with the Older Americans Act, Section 331 in regards to the Dietary
Guidelines. Through each delivery, our volunteers provide safety checks, provide valuable social interaction,
and can connect participants to other community resources. Locally, 93.5% of survey respondents report that
home-delivered meals help them continue living at home and feel better as a result. Every participant,
regardless of ability to contribute toward the cost, receives a hot, nourishing meal each day.
Meal delivery also addresses social isolation. Our 2025 recipient survey found that 87% of respondents see
no one other than their volunteer meal delivery driver during a typical week. Each delivery provides social
contact, a safety check, and an opportunity to identify concerns and connect participants with additional
resources.
By removing barriers to nutrition and social connection, the Rural Home Delivered Meals Program helps
participants maintain independence and improve overall well-being.
3. What evidence-based or evidence-informed practices or "best practice" are used by your
program to inform your program design? Why are these approaches appropriate for your target
population? Please reference specific research supported strategies the program implements. If
your program has been adapted, describe those adaptations.
The Older Americans Act sets national nutrition standards and provides the scientific framework for local
providers to deliver meals and nutrition services that keep older adults healthy, reduce their risk of chronic
disease and disability, and support the management of existing health conditions.
Our meals follow the Older Americans Act nutrition standards. These standards are particularly appropriate
for homebound older adults who often experience multiple nutrition risks, including limited mobility, chronic
health conditions, difficulty shopping or preparing food, social isolation, and financial limitations.
In September 2024, Meals on Wheels of America published a comprehensive review of 38 studies
conducted between 1996 and 2023. This review confirmed that receiving home delivered meal services are
strongly linked to measurable improvements in health and well-being, including:
-reduced health care costs
-reduced nursing home use and increased ability to age in place
-increased food security
-improved diet quality
-reduced or slowed decline in nutritional risk
-reduced social isolation
-reduced falls and increased home safety
This research validates the Rural Home Delivered Meal Program as an evidence-based, cost-effective
solution that not only improves older adults' quality of life but also prevents unnecessary healthcare utilization,
delays institutional care, and generates cost savings for both individuals and taxpayers.
4. Is there anything else you would like to share about your program?
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 53 of 70
Page 93 of 110
The Home Delivered Meal Program is a relatively small intervention that can have long lasting impact with
proven success. And the program continues to grow. In 2025, the ADRC Nutrition Program volunteers
delivered 25,515 meals to local rural residents. To date, calendar year 2026 has shown slight growth (5-10%)
in total meals delivered. The suggested contribution is $5.00 per meal. The average donation for the Home
Delivered Meal Program has remained flat at $2.70 which is 54% of the suggested donation rate amount.
The 2023 National Snapshot of Meals by Meals on Wheels of America report stated seniors on fixed
incomes are especially vulnerable to increases in inflation and cost of living. The U.S. is currently
experiencing the highest inflation in 40 years. The report also stated that 1 in 2 seniors living alone lacks the
income to pay for basic needs. Portage County Conduit’s ALICE in Portage County report sheds further light
on things locally. In households aged 65 and over, 10% are in poverty and another 29% are below the ALICE
threshold.
Looking ahead, there is uncertainty with Older Americans Act federal funding. Because OAA is a significant
funding source for the Home Delivered Meal Program and other vital aging services, any reduction or
reallocation of funds could negatively impact our ability to meet demands.
We have never maintained a waiting list and remain committed to responsible stewardship so the program is
available when someone needs it. Ultimately, the Rural Home Delivered Meal Program provides more than a
meal. It provides nutrition, a familiar face, a safety connection, and flexible support that shifts as the
participants needs change.
The funding requested is warranted to support the efforts to continue to serve home-delivered meals to all
seniors in Portage County as we currently do.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 54 of 70
Page 94 of 110
Additional Program Information 2027Aging and Disabilty Resource Center - Rural Delivered Meals
Additional Program Information
You may save your work at any time by clicking on the "Save My Work" link/icon at the bottom or top
of the page.
When you have completed all questions on the form, select the "Save My Work and Mark as
Completed" link/icon at the bottom or top of this page.
You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the
upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be
saved.
Program Background
1. Provide an example of how program data has been used to improve or change the program's
services or design. Include what changes were made and what impact those changes have had.
We invite participants to complete a monthly menu satisfaction survey as well as an annual participant survey
in which we record and analyze all responses. This process has lead to menu adjustments based on
satisfaction scores including modifying recipes, increasing variety, and adjusting portion sizes. Our meals are
prepared in-house in our scratch cooking kitchen. We create each menu and are able to make changes in
real time based on participant, volunteer, and staff feedback. For a home-delivered nutrition program,
satisfaction is more than a customer service measure. A nutritionally balanced meal only achieves its
intended purpose when the recipient is willing and able to eat it. By using participant feedback as a
continuous quality improvement tool, the program strengthens both satisfaction and overall program impact.
2. If you are asking for an increase in your allocation for 2027, please tell us why.
The Rural Home Delivered Meal Program is requesting $47,650 for 2027, an increase of $2000 or 4.4% over
our 2026 allocation. We did not request an increase in 2026.
The request reflects increased demand and anticipated food costs. Current caseload is running 5-10%
higher than 2025. Consumer Price Index notes that during calendar year 2026 meat prices have increased by
7.4% and produce prices have increased by 5.3% while dairy prices have remained stable. Furthermore, it is
anticipated that food prices will increase another 3.1% in 2027.
The requested additional $2,000 represents 400 meals.
3. Please describe your outreach activities to ensure you reach the target populations throughout
Portage County. Describe how you identify, reach, and engage your priority population. Include
how you reduce barriers to participation (transportation, language, cost, scheduling, disability
access, etc) and how you reach rural or underserved residents when applicable.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 55 of 70
Page 95 of 110
The Rural Home Delivered Meals Program ensures outreach to target population is reached by maintaining
communication with medical providers, service agencies, and the public. The outreach method includes the
ADRC POST newsletter, Senior Spotlight column, website, social media, monthly update to recipients and
volunteers, email update to partner agencies, and word of mouth.
We also use a strong community referral network to identify and reach homebound older adults throughout the
service area. Referrals come from local medical providers, clinics, homecare and hospice agencies, hospital
and nursing home discharge planners, family members, neighbors, and friends. Staff maintain these
relationships through regular communications, presentations, and sharing information about eligibility and
enrollment. We also provide information to churches, community organizations, and social groups and
participate in community outreach events.
Our close partnership with Meals on Wheels of Stevens Point strengthens our ability to identify individuals
who may be experiencing food insecurity, isolation, or other unmet needs and connect them with appropriate
services.
Enrollment is designed to be responsive and accessible. Participants can generally begin receiving meals
within two business days and, when urgent need exists, service can begin as soon as the next delivery day.
Through community partnerships, direct referrals, and home-based service, we are able to reach individuals
who may have difficulty accessing traditional community-based food programs.
4. Does your program
have a waiting list?
No
4a. Describe current demand for the program, particularly if on a waitlist. If demand exceeds
capacity, explain how participants are prioritized and if you have been able to reduce the numbers
waiting for services.
The Rural Home Delivered Meal Program does not currently have a waiting list and has not historically
maintained one. We continually monitor program capacity, funding, and volunteer availability to preserve
timely access to services. Current caseload is running 5-10% higher than 2025. The ADRC does have a wait
list policy in place.
Should a wait list need to go into place, individuals would be categorized into 3 tiers - High, Moderate, and
Low need based on validated Older Americans Act nutrition screening protocol. Those at highest risk of
nutrition insecurity would be prioritized while still providing services and referrals to others to prevent decline.
This standardized approach ensures that resources are allocated effectively.
5. Describe how participant feedback is collected and how it has influenced program
improvements.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 56 of 70
Page 96 of 110
During in-home assessments, staff ask recipients for suggestions to improve their experience. Additionally,
participants are surveyed annually and upon exiting the program to evaluate service quality and impact.
Participants are also able to provide monthly feedback through a menu satisfaction survey. Volunteer drivers
relay participant comments to staff, ensuring feedback is gathered year-round.
The response rate for the 2025 annual survey was 34%. Survey results are shared with staff, leaders, and the
Nutrition Advisory Council. The Nutrition Advisory Council is comprised of 7 members that advise the
Nutrition Program Manager on all matters relating to the delivery of nutrition and nutrition-supportive services
in the program area. The Nutrition Advisory Council members represent and speak on behalf of the nutrition
participants and program. They also act as a communication clearinghouse between the nutrition program
and the general public. Membership consists of nutrition program participants and includes representation
from home-delivered meal recipients.
This combination of assessments, surveys, monthly feedback, and Nutrition Advisory Council feedback
maintains an ongoing dialogue that guides improvements and ensures meals remain appealing and
nutritious. A nutritionally balanced meal only achieves its intended purpose when the recipient is willing and
able to eat it.
6. Please describe any programming changes, innovations, or enhancements that are planned
during the upcoming funding period.
The Rural Home Delivered Meal Program provides meals that meet 1/3 of the adult daily recommended
nutritional requirements and comply with the Older Americans Act, Section 331 in regards to the Dietary
Guidelines. The Dietary Guidelines were updated in January 2026 resulting in a new/updated menu pattern
that will go into effect on January 1, 2027. In utilizing the new/updated menu pattern, a completely new menu
will be written - to include menus, recipes, production sheets, etc.
Given that a new menu needs to be written, this is also an opportune time to add carbohydrate counts to the
menu. While meals are already low in cholesterol and sodium, including carbohydrate counts could support
individuals with diabetes or those that are simply monitoring their carbohydrate intake. It is hoped that
equipping participants with practical tools (i.e. carbohydrate counts) will help them manage their own health
all while strengthening the overall impact of the program.
Finally, volunteer capacity will remain an important area of focus. In 2025, 159 volunteers provided 10,350
hours of service to the program demonstrating both the strength of community support and the importance of
volunteers to our service model. As our volunteer population ages, recruitment and retention are increasingly
important to long term sustainability. We will continue evaluating recruitment, training, onboarding, and
delivery practices to make volunteering accessible and sustainable as community needs grow.
7. Is there a fee for your
program services?
No
7a. Do you have a sliding
fee scale?
No
7b. Please explain your program's rationale for this decision.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 57 of 70
Page 97 of 110
The Rural Home Delivered Meal Program strives to help older adults maintain independence, safety, and
dignity in the home of their choice. This is done by providing nourishing meals to homebound clients on a
contribution basis. No eligible participant will be denied a meal based on ability to contribute toward the cost
of the meal.
The Rural Home Delivered Meals Program does not charge a fee for services. Because the program
receives Older American Act funding, services are provided on a contribution basis. Participants are
informed of the cost of their meals and invited to contribute accordingly to their ability, but contributions are
voluntary. Charging a required fee, including sliding scale fee, would make the program ineligible for Older
Americans Act funding.
8. Describe how you use In-Kind and volunteer resources to contribute to and enhance your
program.
Volunteers are essential to our program and significantly extend program resources. They pack meals,
navigate rural road conditions, and ensure that each recipient receives a hot, nutritious meal along with a
friendly visit. Volunteers also provide office support and work on special projects. In 2025, we had 159
volunteers provide 10,350 hours of service. According to Independent Sector, the current value of a volunteer
hour is $36.14, underscoring the significant in-kind contribution these dedicated individuals provide to our
program. This allows more funding to remain focused on meals and participant services.
The program also benefits from generous in-kind donations including items such as shelf-stable meals and
produce. These items help enhance services that enrich the lives of those we serve.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 58 of 70
Page 98 of 110
Program Budget - 2027 ApplicationAging and Disabilty Resource Center - Rural Delivered Meals
Program Budget
You may save your work at any time by clicking on the "Save My Work" link/icon at the bottom or top
of the page.
When you have completed all questions on the form, select the "Save My Work and Mark as
Completed" link/icon at the bottom or top of this page.
You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the
upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be
saved.
Revenue
2026 Budget
2026 Actual
(1/1/26
- 6/30/26) 2027 Proposed
$ Difference
(2026
Budget - 2027
Proposed)
% Difference
(2026
Budget / 2027
Proposed)
United Way Allocations 45,650 22,825 50,650 5,000 10.95
Contributions 64,446 44,386 77,900 13,454 20.88
Special Events 0 0
Other Public Support 0 0
Government Support 90,260 18,727 63,237 -27,023 -29.94
Foundations & Private
Grants
0 0
Dues / Fees 16,120 5,849 11,935 -4,185 -25.96
Sales To Public 0 0
Investment Income 0 0
Miscellaneous (Click to
itemize)
280,230 0 317,579 37,349 13.33
Tax levy 280,230 0 317,579
Total 496,706 91,787 521,301 24,595 4.95
Expenses
2026 Budget
2026 Actual
(1/1/26
- 6/30/26) 2027 Proposed
$ Difference
(2026
Budget - 2027
Proposed)
% Difference
(2026
Budget / 2027
Proposed)
Salaries 178,007 93,363 178,194 187 0.11
Employee Benefits & Payroll
Taxes
116,917 57,059 115,271 -1,646 -1.41
Professional Fees 1,995 4,325 14,142 12,147 608.87
Supplies/Printing/Duplicatin
g
17,319 16,544 21,558 4,239 24.48
Communication 22,382 12,290 24,531 2,149 9.60
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 59 of 70
Page 99 of 110
2026 Budget
2026 Actual
(1/1/26
- 6/30/26) 2027 Proposed
$ Difference
(2026
Budget - 2027
Proposed)
% Difference
(2026
Budget / 2027
Proposed)
Occupancy 0 0
Rental / Maint. Of Equipment 4,179 2,401 4,324 145 3.47
Travel 46,690 22,271 51,116 4,426 9.48
Conference / Conventions /
Mtgs.
406 71 329 -77 -18.97
Scholarships / Grants / Asst.
To Indiv.
0 0
Dues to State / National Org. 711 628 705 -6 -0.84
Insurance 0 0
Miscellaneous (Click to
itemize)
108,100 56,089 111,131 3,031 2.80
Background Checks 140 330 168
Food 96,649 44,466 99,652
Pre-Employment Testing 93 75 93
Contracted Food 11,218 11,218 11,218
Total 496,706 265,041 521,301 24,595 4.95
Surplus / Deficit
2026 Budget
2026 Actual
(1/1/26
- 6/30/26) 2027 Proposed
$ Difference
(2026
Budget - 2027
Proposed)
% Difference
(2026
Budget / 2027
Proposed)
Surplus / Deficit 0 -173,254 0 0 0
Reserve and Endowment Funds
Please provide the following information
2026 Budget
2026 Actual
(1/1/26
- 6/30/27) 2027 Proposed
$ Difference
(2026
Budget - 2027
Proposed)
% Difference
(2026
Budget / 2027
Proposed)
Reserved Fund Balance 0 0
Endowment Fund Balance 0 0
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 60 of 70
Page 100 of 110
Client Demographics - 2027 ApplicationAging and Disabilty Resource Center - Rural Delivered Meals
Client Demographics
You will not need to report proposed individual demographic category data in the 2027 application.
You will need to continue to collect the individual demographic data in the following categories (Age,
Gender, Race/Ethnicity, Participant Poverty Level, and Elderly or Disabled Poverty Level) as you
always have.
Once collection is completed at the end of 2027, you will enter that data accumulated into the 2027
Year-End Reporting tool to be released in February of 2027.
When you have completed all questions on the form, select the “Save My Work and Mark as
Completed” link/icon at the bottom or top of this page.
You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the
upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be
saved.
Participants
Proposed # Served
2026
Actual # Served
through 6/30/2026
Proposed # Served
2027
Individuals 235 255 255
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 61 of 70
Page 101 of 110
Priority: H - Priority 3: Support community members in managing health challenges.
Strategy:
HP3 B. Support the delivery of evidenced-based programming that coordinates resources to
provide comprehensive support to individuals with challenges to achieving healthy living.
Outcome Statement:
Participants will maintain or improve nutritional status while enrolled in rural home delivered
meals.
Activity:Administer nutritional risk screening upon enrollment and annually.
Activity:Administer annual participation survey to rural home delivered meals participants.
Outcome Measurements - 2027 ApplicationAging and Disabilty Resource Center - Rural Delivered Meals
Outcome Measurements
Select a Priority, then select a Strategy. Then Enter your outcomes, indicators, and activities.
Strategy
Outcomes
Indicators Proposed results (1/1/27
-12/31/27)
Actual results (1/1/2027 -
12/31/2027)
# & % of participants who maintain or
improve nutritional status upon
receiving follow up reassessment as
evidenced by the nutritional screening
score recorded.
# Served 140
#
Sampled
112
#
Achieving
79
%
Achieving
70.54 0
# & % of participants who will express
satisfaction with meals and eat them.
# Served 140
#
Sampled
56
#
Achieving
48
%
Achieving
85.71 0
1. Describe the tools or methods used to collect outcome data. Why are these methods
appropriate for measuring success?
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 62 of 70
Page 102 of 110
Outcome Statement:
Rural Home Delivered participants will maintain or improve feelings of safety and/or a sense of
security while receiving program services.
Activity:Personally deliver one meal four or more days per week
Activity:Provide a safety check with a face-to-face contact when meal is delivered
Activity:Provided extreme weather and wellness telephone checks.
The Measurement Tool for ADL's (Activities of Daily Living) has been validated by OAA and is effective.
In order to be considered in the sample size for follow up assessment, a recipient must have a baseline
in one year and a follow up assessment in the next year. Staff complete over the phone and face to face
assessments to gather data. Participant surveys are sent to all program recipients with a self-addressed
envelope. The program goal is for a 40% return rate.
2. Additional comments regarding outcomes and indicators
Indicators Proposed results (1/1/27
-12/31/27)
Actual results (1/1/2027 -
12/31/2027)
# & % of participants who will receive
follow-up call and intervention as
needed based on wellness checks
and/or daily safety check
# Served 480
#
Sampled
480
#
Achieving
480
%
Achieving
100 0
# & % of participants who report
having a home delivered meal helps
them continue living safely where they
choose.
# Served 140
#
Sampled
52
#
Achieving
47
%
Achieving
90.38 0
1. Describe the tools or methods used to collect outcome data. Why are these methods
appropriate for measuring success?
Outcome data is collected through
-number of face to face hot meal deliveries (tracked daily)
-number of wellness checks (tracked daily)
-Home Delivered Meal Assessment Form (completed at least annually)
-participant surveys (completed annually)
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 63 of 70
Page 103 of 110
2. Additional comments regarding outcomes and indicators
In 2025, trained volunteers completed 25,515 in-person safety checks during meal deliveries and
shared daily opportunities to monitor participants' well being and address concerns.
Each year the program anticipates occasional closure days due to severe weather. On these days staff
personally call each recipient to check on their safety and well-being. These calls can uncover urgent
needs prompting follow up with emergency contacts, initiating wellness checks, and making referrals to
other community programs. In many cases these interventions often prevent health crises and help
participants remain in their home.
We anticipate a similar number of closures in 2027, each serving as a vital opportunity to assess well-
being and provide life-sustaining support.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 64 of 70
Page 104 of 110
Key Program Details 2027Aging and Disabilty Resource Center - Rural Delivered Meals
Key Program Details 2027
When you have completed all questions on the form, select the "Save My Work and Mark as
Completed" button at the bottom of this page.
You may also SWITCH between forms in this application by using the SWITCH FORMS feature in the
upper right corner. When switching forms, any updates to the existing form will automatically be
saved.
Key Details
Explain how your program aligns with the selected Impact Area, priority population, and strategy.
Describe how your activities will advance the intended community outcomes.
United Way's Healthy Community Impact Area's goal is to partner with evidence-based programs that
improve behavioral, mental, and physical health and wellness with a priority focus on seniors 65 and older or
those with varying abilities who live at or below 250% of FPL.
The Rural Home Delivered Meal Program addresses interconnected challenges through an evidence based
home-delivered nutrition model. Nutritious meals support physical health and management of chronic
conditions, while regular social contact and safety checks help identify emerging concerns. Research
summarized by Meals on Wheels America links home-delivered meal participation with improved food
security and diet quality, reduced nutritional risk and social isolation, increased ability to age in place, and
reduced healthcare and nursing home utilization.
It's been said that food is medicine. The Rural Home Delivered Meal program is able to serve an older adult
for an entire year for the same cost as a day in the hospital or 10 days in a long term care facility. (Per the
Bureau of Aging and Disability Resources HDM Profile and Report 3/26). Our Rural Home Delivered Meal
program is helping participants maintain independence and dignity in the home of their choice.
Comprehensive support is strengthened through collaboration with Meals on Wheels of Stevens Point,
healthcare providers, home health and hospice agencies, discharge planners, and other community partners.
When needs beyond nutrition are identified, participants can be connected with the appropriate resources
rather than requiring one organization to meet every need.
Describe your program model. What are the major services provided, and how do these activities
and services lead to the outcomes you expect participants to achieve?
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 65 of 70
Page 105 of 110
The Rural Home Delivered Meal Program is a program of the Older Americans Act. The OAA sets national
nutrition standards and provides the scientific framework for local providers to deliver meals and nutrition
services that keep older adults healthy, reduce their risk of chronic disease and disability, and support the
management of existing health conditions.
The Rural Home Delivered Meal Program uses a home-delivered nutrition and supportive services model
designed to help older adults remain healthy, safe, and independent in the home of their choice.
The foundation of the program is reliable access to nutritious meals. Participants receive home-delivered
meals and may receive additional frozen meals to ensure access to 7 meals per week. Meals meet the Older
Americans Act nutrition standards. These services reduce barriers to adequate nutrition and support
management of health and dietary needs. In 2025, 78% of reassessed participants maintained or improved
their nutritional status.
Each delivery also provides social contact and a safety check. Volunteers report concerns to staff, who follow
up through wellness checks, emergency contacts, referrals to community resources, or emergency services
when needed. In 2025, individuals were referred to other services, on average, about 100 times per month
(including but not limited to Caregiver Support, Adult Day Center, Evidenced Based Classes, Information and
Assistance, and Elder Benefits). Additionally, 87% of surveyed participants reported that their volunteer meal
delivery driver was the only person they saw on a meal delivery day.
Describe how your program coordinates with other organizations, schools, healthcare providers,
or community partners. Explain how these partnerships improve participant outcomes, reduce
duplication of services, or strengthen the community response and impact.
The Rural Home Delivered Meal Program works closely with community partners to ensure participants
received coordinated support without duplicating services. Our partnership with Meals on Wheels of Stevens
Point is central to this approach. Rather than operating as separate programs, we communicate regularly,
coordinate referrals, share resources and training opportunities, and work together to ensure older adults
have consistent access to appropriate nutrition and supportive services.
This coordination is especially valuable when needs change or an urgent situation arises. If the Rural Home
Delivered Meal Program cannot begin services immediately, we can work with Meals On Wheels of Stevens
Point to provide temporary meal support until regular delivery begins.
Our collaboration with Meals On Wheels of Stevens Point also strengthens the broader aging services
network. We share staff training and educational resources, coordinate emergency preparedness, support
learning opportunities, and collaborate on community initiatives and funding opportunities.
These partnerships allow each organization to contribute its expertise, reduce duplication, and create a more
coordinated response for older adults. The strength of local collaboration has also been recognized in state
and regional aging network settings as an example of effective community partnership.
Additionally, we coordinate with healthcare providers, hospitals, nursing homes, home health and hospice
agencies, and other human service organizations that identify individuals who may benefit from home-
delivered meals. These partnerships help participants transition safely home and connect with services
earlier.
Describe the ways you sustain this program beyond United Way funding. Include other major
funding sources, partnerships, or organizational resources that contribute to long-term stability.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 66 of 70
Page 106 of 110
Along with the Wisconsin Aging Advocacy Network, the Rural Home Delivered Meal Program has been
working to safeguard home delivered meals through grass roots advocacy. Funding information has been
shared with Nutrition Advisory Council members, Board Members, volunteers, participants and staff alerting
them to the need for advocacy as there has been flat or small funding increases through the Older Americans
Act despite rising costs, growing demand, and a shortage of volunteers.
The Rural Home Delivered Meal program will continue to ask for a suggested donation of $5 per meal but will
not deny a meal to a participant that is unable to contribute toward the meal.
Collaboration with Meals On Wheels of Stevens Point and other organizations allows us to share resources,
coordinate services, and avoid unnecessary duplication.
Community awareness and trust are also important sustainability assets and further extend our capacity. In
2025, 159 volunteers provided 10,350 hours of service. Long-term volunteers, donors, community partners,
and an engaged Nutrition Advisory Council demonstrate continued investment in the organization and its
mission.
By combining diverse revenue sources, volunteer and community resources, strategic partnerships,
advocacy, and careful financial stewardship, the Rural Home Delivered Meal Program has built a sustainable
model that does not depend on any single funding source and can continue adapting as community needs
and funding environments change.
Provide a brief explanation of your funding request. Describe how the requested United Way
investment will be used and why these expenses are necessary to achieve the proposed
outcomes.
The Rural Home Delivered Meal Program is requesting a $47,650 United Way investment in 2027. These
funds support the core cost of providing home-delivered meals to older adults but do not cover even the full
cost of food, which represents about $170,000 of our annual budget. The Consumer Price Index anticipates
that grocery prices will increase another 3.1% in calendar year 2027, stretching tight budgets even further.
United Way's investment is leveraged with recipient contributions, community donations, grants,
organizational resources, and significant volunteer support. Together, these resources sustain the
coordinated service model necessary to achieve our outcomes of improved nutrition, safety, social
connection, and continued independence at home.
Explain any significant increases or decreases in proposed program revenue or expenses.
The program continues to experience increases in operating costs. Food remains our largest expense with
grocery prices anticipated to increase another 3.1% in 2027, per the Consumer Price Index. And while there
has been grass roots advocacy to support home-delivered meal programs, state funding remains unknown at
this time. We continue to manage food costs through thoughtful menu planning, ingredient selection, and other
efficiencies while maintaining required nutrition standards, meal quality, and participant satisfaction.
On the revenue side, community grant funding is becoming increasingly competitive while future state and
federal funding levels supporting aging and nutrition services remain uncertain.
The Rural Home Delivered Meal Program continues to control expenses through a lean staffing model,
significant volunteer support, community partnerships, and careful management of program resources.
Proposed revenue and expense changes reflect the need to maintain or grow current service capacity as
costs increase while ensuring that eligible participants continue to receive meals regardless of their ability to
contribute.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 67 of 70
Page 107 of 110
Please reflect on your program's performance during the previous funding period. Describe any
significant differences between your proposed and actual results (whether higher or lower than
targeted), what contributed to those results, and how those lessons have informed your plans for
the upcoming year.
Despite increased operational costs and decreased funding, the program has worked diligently to remain in
budget. Current utilization demonstrates continued strong demand. From January through June 2026, the
Rural Home Delivered Meal Program has served 255 unduplicated participants.
Our most recent completed annual outcome data also demonstrated strong performance. Of the participants
receiving nutritional assessments in 2025, 78% maintained or improved nutritional status, exceeding the
proposed goal of 70%. Meal satisfaction also exceeded expectations, with 95.8% of respondents reporting
satisfaction compared with a goal of 90%.
Lessons from these results are informing 2027 planning. We will continue monitoring nutritional outcomes,
strengthening participant feedback, improving data collection, and refining services based on participant
needs. Initiatives begun in 2026, including efforts to increase survey participation, will continue into 2027 so
their effectiveness can be fully evaluated.
Explain how each proposed outcome is meaningful for the participants you serve.
Our proposed outcomes reflect two fundamental needs of the homebound older adults we serve: having
adequate nutrition and feeling safe and secure while living in the home of their choice. The Rural Home
Delivered Meal Program does this through providing nutritious and delicious meals along with a safety check
each day that a hot meal is delivered.
Adequate nutrition supports overall health, helps participants manage chronic conditions, and provides the
energy and strength needed to continue daily activities. Half of survey respondents shared that the hot,
balanced meal provided by the Rural Home Delivered Meal Program accounts for half or more of their total
daily food intake.
Knowing that someone will regularly arrive, notice if something is wrong, and connect them with help when
needed provides both practical safety monitoring and reassurance. Additionally, program staff personally
connect with each participant any time there is inclement weather and the Rural Home Delivered Meal
Program needs to cancel meal delivery.
Home delivered meal services are one of the most cost-effective investments we can make to help older
adults age safely in their communities. The Rural Home Delivered Meal Program is a nutrition and supportive
services model designed to help older adults remain healthy, safe, and independent in the home of their
choice.
How will evaluation results be used to improve program quality or participant outcomes?
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 68 of 70
Page 108 of 110
Evaluation results are used as a continuous quality improvement tool rather than solely as a reporting
requirement. Staff review outcome data, participant surveys, nutritional reassessments, menu satisfaction
results, service utilization, and safety interventions to identify trends, areas of strength, and opportunities for
improvement.
Program results are shared with staff and the Nutrition Advisory Council to support planning and decision
making. When changes are made, continued data collection helps determine whether those changes are
producing the intended results.
The Rural Home Delivered Meal Program is also incorporated into the three-year strategic Aging Plan for the
Aging and Disability Resource Center of Portage County. This strategic document addresses the needs and
challenges associated with the aging population within our service area. Preparation and development of the
2028-2030 Aging Plan will take place in 2027. This involves gathering input from the public, collecting
feedback on a draft plan, and submitting a final plan with updated goals and proposed outcomes to GWaar
(Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources, Inc.). Outcomes from this vetted Aging Plan are also
tracked, monitored, and reported on annually.
This ongoing cycle of measuring outcomes, reviewing results, making informed adjustments, and evaluating
their effectiveness helps ensure that program resources and services remain responsive to participant needs
and support improved nutrition, safety, and independence.
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 69 of 70
Page 109 of 110
Publicity and Marketing - ApplicationAging and Disabilty Resource Center - Rural Delivered Meals
Publicity and Marketing
The success of the United Way Campaign depends on our ability to communicate to donors the needs
in our community and the impact of programs such as yours. The information gathered on this form
will be used for publicity and marketing purposes including, but not limited to; e-newsletters, website,
Facebook, etc.
Please consider the questions, found by selecting the green question mark, as you complete your
success story to in order to make it more compelling to donors and the general public.
Client Success Story
Agency Contact for
Success Story:
Rochelle Drexler
Phone Number for
Success Story:
(715) 498-6657
Restate the outcome the story links to:
Provide a safety check with a face-to-face contact when meal is delivered.
Success Story (Please select the green question mark to review and consider the questions as you
complete your success story to in order to make it more compelling to donors and the general
public)
A family member who wishes to remain anonymous reported the following.
The Home Delivered Meal driver found my father on the floor when he delivered the meal. The Nutrition
Program contacted emergency medical services and me. My father had fallen and broken his hip. This driver
probably saved my father from death. This program is so much more than a meal!
Quotes from recipients of the home delivered meal program:
"The food and service are greatly appreciated."
"Life saving program. Thank you!"
"I've received excellent service. All the delivery people are very friendly."
"Thank you for your faithful service. Nice balanced meals."
"Time of delivery is commendable."
"Food is good. Helps me out buying pills that are $1000 a month for my heart condition."
"Thank you for this special service. Those who deliver the meals are so nice. My husband is enjoying the
meals, and we are maintaining his weight."
"I am so thankful for the wonderful meal service you provide me. I look forward to your healthy, nourishing
meals every day - delivered by such very nice people. Your service has hugely improved my quality of life."
I grant United Way permission to use the information provided on this form publicly.
Yes
8/31/2026 4:37 PM CST © 2026 e-CImpact
page 70 of 70
Page 110 of 110
Source: Portage County website. First collected Oct 1, 2026.