At Eagle Rock Bank, we take great pride in our commitment to giving back to the community we call home. Each month, we shine a spotlight on a deserving local nonprofit in Rochester Magazine's "3 Ways You Can Help" series, showcasing their vital work and encouraging others to get involved. 

Written by Megan Malugani for Rochester Magazine 

3 Ways You Can Help: 

At 20 residences in Rochester area, 80 individuals with disabilities are living their lives to the fullest thanks to the quality care and support provided by Hiawatha Homes.

Hiawatha Homes has served community members since 1976, when a group of concerned parents and community members envisioned a place where kids with disabilities would be treated as people first. The organization soon evolved into supporting adults, and today assists people with developmental disabilities, physical health needs, specialized medical needs, brain injury, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and emotional and behavioral health needs.

The organization’s reach and impact continue to grow five decades after its founding. Aside from operating the 20 community residential homes, the organization also provides services like respite care, family support and in-home assistance for non-residential clients.

“Our vision is that the people we support are living a fulfilling life of their choice in a community that values and includes them,” says Meghan Eggers, Communications Associate at Hiawatha Homes. Eggers notes that each client is supported with individualized care that helps them achieve specific personal goals. “People with disabilities belong in our community and contribute to making our community fuller and more robust,” Eggers says.

As Hiawatha Homes approaches its 50th birthday, it continues to embody its founders’ original, powerful vision while looking ahead to an impactful future.

How You Can Help

Donate. Your donations are primarily directed to supporting general programs and services. This includes maintaining the organization’s residences and funding engaging activities, such as trips and specialized programs.

Volunteer. Hiawatha Homes is actively expanding its volunteer program. Opportunities range from playing card games with residents to assisting with administrative tasks to helping with the organizations’ signature event, the Festival of Trees (a beloved Rochester tradition held every Thanksgiving weekend). You can find the volunteer application at hiawathahomes.org.

Join the HH Team. Hiawatha Homes frequently has openings for direct support professionals, who are at the heart of fulfilling the organization’s mission every day. There are also leadership positions available, with opportunities for growth from entry-level roles. While prior experience with individuals with disabilities isn’t a prerequisite, a genuine willingness to learn and connect with the disability community is essential.

LIFE-CHANGING WORK

“This is a chance to improve someone’s life that might not have those same opportunities without you…
Everyone deserves to have a good life and soak up as much joy as they can.”
-Joe D., Direct Support Professional for Hiawatha Homes

AT A GLANCE
Founded in 1976.

Mission: “To provide quality support services to people with disabilities at home and in the community.”

Impact: 244,885 hours of direct care provided to clients in 2024.

Headquarters located at 1820 Valkyrie Dr. NW, Rochester

hiawathahomes.org, 507-289-7222