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ProAct highlights new Shakipi site, rising demand for disability day and employment services
Summary
ProAct told county leaders it opened a new facility in Shakipi, serves roughly 700 people across its sites, and is expanding employment supports but faces staffing and state-reimbursement uncertainty.
ProAct President and CEO Judy Foster Buffkin briefed commissioners on the nonprofit’s new Shakipi facility and program priorities, saying the move created room to expand day supports, employment services and a resource hub.
ProAct reported it is “currently serving over 700 people” across its four sites and emphasized a sharp demand increase for employment services and individualized supports in Scott County. Staff described using donated goods, partnering with transportation providers, and planning to add an employment specialist in Shakipi to meet referrals for job exploration and one-to-one supports.
Why it matters: ProAct’s local expansion increases capacity for adults with disabilities to access day programming and employment supports in Scott County. Commissioners asked about workforce needs, eligibility for county supports and how ProAct is handling state funding uncertainty.
Details: ProAct described partnerships with employers (Costco, USPS, Cub Foods and others named in the presentation) and cited use of mixed funding sources including waivers and grants. Leaders noted 98% of ProAct revenue comes from government sources overall and that the sector faces “political upheaval” and delayed rate increases from the state, which complicates hiring and program growth plans.
County response and next steps: County staff thanked ProAct for staying local and said they will continue to explore grant opportunities and contracting options to support capacity. ProAct asked the board to track opportunities to align county and private funding so the nonprofit can hire renewal managers and employment specialists.
