08/13/2025
Community Alternatives in Shawano: Empowering Independence, One Life at a Time
Shawano, WI — In a quiet neighborhood in Shawano, a man named Gary wakes up each day with a purpose. He tends to his garden plot in the community garden, fills his bird feeders, and looks forward to playing bingo with friends later in the week. A few years ago, this life might have seemed out of reach. But thanks to the dedicated staff at Community Alternatives, Gary—and many others like him- can live on their own terms.
Since opening its doors in 2013, Community Alternatives has been a driving force in the Shawano area, providing community-based care and support to individuals with disabilities. What began as a county-initiated response to the shift toward Managed Care has evolved into a deeply rooted organization committed to transforming lives.
Originally established by Shawano County to acquire affordable housing and oversee staffing for individuals with disabilities, Community Alternatives was closely partnered with D.E.N. Services. In 2017, a significant change occurred: Community Alternatives became fully independent, ending its contract with D.E.N. Services and directly hiring all staff. This transition allowed the organization to offer a comprehensive benefits package and greater consistency in care, steps that would prove vital in building the organization’s strong, mission-driven identity.
A Mission Grounded in Dignity and Choice
At the heart of Community Alternatives is a clear mission: to encourage and promote the total integration of people who experience a disability or illness, enabling them to live as independently as possible in the community of their choice. For the individuals they serve, this mission isn’t just a slogan—it’s a daily reality.
“Our role is to support—not to direct—someone’s life,” the staff says. “We help people design a life they want, on their terms, while offering whatever level of support they need.”
This support comes in many forms. From helping members with personal care and medication management to coordinating medical appointments, managing diabetes, and even assisting with financial tasks like budgeting and shopping, Community Alternatives meets people where they are. Staff accompany members on outings, take them out to eat, and assist them in participating in community events, such as Bingo or shopping trips. For those who do not require full-time care, Community Alternatives also offers drop-in services, assisting with light cleaning, medication reminders, and errands as needed.
A Story of Transformation
One of the most impactful success stories comes from Gary, who once struggled in a group living environment. The challenges of sharing space with roommates were overwhelming and emotionally taxing. His mental well-being declined, and he struggled to find peace or joy in daily life.
Everything changed when Community Alternatives moved him into his own home and paired him with one-on-one caretakers—individuals who eventually became trusted companions. The difference was immediate. Gary began to blossom in his new environment. Today, he enjoys time in his garden, takes pride in feeding the birds, and relishes being a part of his community. “He continues to flourish every day thanks to Community Alternatives,” the staff said. His story is just one example of how individualized care and intentional support can completely transform a person’s life.
The People Behind the Mission
To do this kind of life-changing work takes more than just compassion—it takes training, professionalism, and an unwavering sense of purpose.
All Community Alternatives employees must complete specific training to become certified Personal Care Workers. This includes First Aid, Fire Safety, Standard Precautions, and Medication Administration. In addition, the State of Wisconsin requires 15 hours of training within the first 90 days of employment, followed by 15 hours of continuing education annually. Learning never stops, and neither does dedication.
But the skills go beyond checklists. “It takes a very special person to do this kind of work,” says Julie, the Executive Director. “Someone who leads with heart. Someone who knows how to listen, how to advocate, and how to bring dignity into every task, big or small.”
The Challenges They Face
Despite the passion and purpose, Community Alternatives faces no shortage of challenges. Like many care providers across the country, the organization is grappling with staff retention, compliance requirements, financial planning, and burnout. Low wages make recruitment difficult, especially in a field that demands such emotional and physical commitment.
“It’s hard to grow when you don’t have enough staff,” says Julie. “We want to expand. We want to reach more people. But we can’t do that without the team to support them.”
They also face broader societal challenges, chief among them, shifting public perception. “We want people to admire this work again,” Julie explains. “Caring for others should be seen as honorable and vital, because it is.”
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Community Alternatives aims to expand its services by adding more homes and reaching even more individuals in need. Their vision includes fostering a greater public appreciation for caregiving professions and increasing funding to support competitive wages and long-term sustainability.
They are also focusing on advocating for their members in every possible way—from navigating medical systems and housing issues to creating opportunities for meaningful community involvement.
“There’s a whole population of people who can’t always speak up for themselves,” says Toni, Coordinator Supervisor. “That’s where we come in. It’s our job to be their voice, to ensure their needs and wants are not only heard but respected.”
How Success Is Measured
For Community Alternatives, success isn’t measured in profits or recognition. It’s measured in joy. In a smile. In a moment of pride. In someone like Gary finding peace in his garden, or a member feeling confident enough to shop at a local store for the first time.
“If a member is not just content but truly happy—living their best life—then we’ve done our job,” says Toni. “That’s what success looks like for us.”
Standing Strong Together
Through staffing shortages, a pandemic, and numerous other challenges, the team at Community Alternatives continues to persevere. Loyal, compassionate, and resilient, they support not just the members but one another.
“I’m proud of everything we’ve accomplished,” Julie reflects. “And I’m especially proud of our staff. Through thick and thin, they never stop caring. They never stop believing in the people we serve.”
As the organization continues to grow, its impact also grows. In a world that often overlooks individuals with disabilities, Community Alternatives remains committed to one simple yet powerful idea: every life matters, and everyone deserves the opportunity to live it to the fullest.
Community Alternatives is urgently seeking caring staff to support individuals in their homes. Training is provided. If you are interested in pursuing this rewarding work, please contact Stacy at 715-526-5573 or Julie at 715-526-5566.
For Community Alternatives, success isn’t measured in profits or recognition. It’s measured in joy. In a smile. In a moment of pride. In someone like Gary, finding peace in his garden, or a member feeling confident enough to shop at a local store for the first time.
