We were deeply honored to welcome Representative Elijah Behnke to our facility this week, where he was presented with a Legislative Champion for People with Disabilities Award by the Family Care Coalition. This special recognition celebrates Rep. Behnke’s ongoing commitment to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities throughout Wisconsin.
Representative Behnke has been a strong advocate for policies that support independence, dignity, and quality of life for people of all abilities. His leadership and partnership with organizations like ours make it possible to continue providing meaningful care, inclusive opportunities, and a sense of belonging to those we serve.
Also joining us for this memorable occasion was Michael Schwartz from Innovative Care Services, a valued partner whose collaboration and shared dedication to quality care continue to make a positive impact across our community. Having both of them present made this day one of true celebration and unity — a reminder of what can be achieved when public leaders, care providers, and community organizations work hand in hand.
At Community Alternatives, we are proud to be part of a network of care that prioritizes people above all else. Every day, our teams work to ensure that individuals with disabilities are not only supported but also empowered to thrive within their communities. Seeing leaders like Rep. Behnke recognized for their commitment reinforces the importance of advocacy and collaboration in shaping a better, more inclusive future.
We extend our sincerest thanks to Representative Behnke for his leadership, to the Family Care Coalition for their recognition of his efforts, and to Michael Schwartz and Innovative Care Services for their continued partnership. Together, we share a common goal — to make Wisconsin a place where every individual is valued, respected, and allowed to live their best life.
Our members recently enjoyed a spooktacular day at the NEW Zoo & Adventure Park in Suamico, Wisconsin, where they attended the annual Boo at the Zoo event! The fall air was crisp, the leaves were vibrant, and excitement filled the atmosphere as our group explored the zoo, met all kinds of animals, and took part in the festive Halloween-themed activities. From seeing the giraffes up close to collecting sweet treats along the Boo trail, laughter could be heard in every corner.
This special outing was made possible through a generous grant from the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region. Their support allowed our members to enjoy a safe, inclusive, and enriching community experience that many might not otherwise have the chance to share. It was more than just a day at the zoo — it was a day filled with connection, joy, and unforgettable memories.
At Community Alternatives, we believe that every individual deserves to be part of their community, to explore new experiences, and to celebrate the season together. Outings like Boo at the Zoo encourage social interaction, independence, and confidence while allowing our members to enjoy being themselves in a supportive environment.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region for making this possible and to the staff at the NEW Zoo for their warmth and hospitality. Partnerships like these remind us just how powerful community can be when we come together to make a difference.
🧡 Here’s to more adventures, more smiles, and more memories ahead!
We are proud to share that the Wisconsin 2025–2027 State Budget has officially passed, securing continued investment in community-based care through the approval of the Family Care Minimum Fee Schedule and the Direct Workforce Funding Initiative. This is an essential and meaningful step forward for Adult Family Homes (AFHs), the individuals we support, and the dedicated staff who provide compassionate care every day. At Community Alternatives, we know firsthand how vital these programs are—not only to the daily lives of our residents, but also to the long-term sustainability of high-quality home- and community-based services across Wisconsin.
What This Means for Family Care
The Family Care Minimum Fee Schedule ensures that providers of long-term care services receive fair and consistent reimbursement rates. By continuing this fee schedule into the next biennium, the State of Wisconsin affirms its commitment to protecting access to quality care for older adults and people with disabilities. For small providers like Adult Family Homes, these stabilized rates make it possible to maintain safe, person-centered environments without compromising the quality of care or financial sustainability.
Supporting the Direct Care Workforce
Equally important is the continuation of the Direct Workforce Funding Initiative. This initiative directly supports wage increases and workforce development efforts for caregivers. In a time when the direct care workforce is facing significant shortages and high turnover rates, this investment is crucial. It enables providers to offer competitive wages, enhance retention, and acknowledge the value and skills of those who dedicate their lives to supporting others.
A Collective Effort
We extend our deepest gratitude to the Wisconsin State Legislature, the Joint Finance Committee, Governor Tony Evers, Elijah Behnke, Eric Wimberger, and the countless advocates, families, and staff who raised their voices in support of these initiatives. Your commitment to protecting vulnerable populations and supporting the caregivers who serve them does not go unnoticed. At Community Alternatives, we remain committed to advocating for policies that uplift our residents, empower our staff, and strengthen the care system that so many Wisconsinites rely on. The passage of this budget is a victory for dignity, compassion, and community-based care.
Elijah Behnke our State Representative came to tour Community Alternatives and meet the folks we support and the staff that does the work. We are advocating for a permanent increase to the Minimum Fee Schedule that sets reimbursement rates based on a $15.75 per hour average wage.
We had a beautiful day for our 2021 Art In The Park Event. We had a wonderful picnic lunch (thanks to all our helpers!) and ended up with some great artwork. Thank you everyone that attended.
November was National Family Caregiving Month, and in recognition of the challenges that family caregivers face, the Wisconsin Aging Advocacy Network, Survival Coalition, and Wisconsin Family Caregiver Alliance launched a video series available on YouTube:
