Mosaic celebrating 25 years of success in Waukon

submitted by Janel Clarke,
Public Relations Specialist for Mosaic

One of the best things about Waukon is the people that live and work here. And, the history of Mosaic, formerly known as Martin Luther Homes, is one of those stories... a heartwarming and inspiring story, all about local people.
Back in the late 1970s, a group of progressive individuals in Waukon managed to implement real change and lasting community improvement. They set out on a course to establish local services for people with intellectual disabilities. At that time, the only life-choice for people with disabilities was to live in a state institution far from home, or to live with parents who were aging.
By 1986, these local leaders had established a solid foundation by raising local awareness, applying for grants, and rallying the community. They also gathered donations from more than 200 businesses, individuals and groups. At that point, they contacted what was known as Martin Luther Homes in Nebraska about starting a branch in northeast Iowa. This resulted in the first group home on Allamakee Street in Waukon. Those involved described it as a labor of love.
This year, 2011, marks the 25th Anniversary for the local Mosaic facility. This is a milestone opportunity to share the positive impact that people with disabilities bring to the community, and to share the history that brought Mosaic to life. While individual names are too numerous to list, news archives describing the process are available on www.mosaicinwaukon.org. These historical documents will also be available at the anniversary celebration being held in June (see advertisement below), and can be viewed in local window displays in downtown Waukon.
Since 1986, Mosaic has served hundreds of clients and employed many local workers, contributing to the growth of the local economy. This year alone, 55 employees provide individualized services and a place to call home for 21 individuals with intellectual disabilities. As Mosaic services continue to expand, training is constant, and quality of life is the focus.
Services are offered at a total of four home sites in the local area. Last year, Mosaic opened Haven Apartments in Waukon; in 2006, Mosaic expanded to Decorah; and in 1992, the home on Sixth Street was built. As Mosaic continues to pursue sustainable growth through partnership with volunteers, donors, and other organizations, the belief that every individual is a person of worth continues to grow. That vision and dedication has become part of the community and continues to grow.
Mosaic is grateful to continue to receive donations from many loyal organizations and individuals. The giving tree at Mosaic continues to grow, and as a faith-based organization answering God’s call to serve in the world, Mosaic continues to give back. An example of this is the Fair Play project implemented at the Allamakee County Fairgrounds in 2004. When visiting the fair this year, take note of the accessibility features implemented by a group of dedicated citizens. This project involved a grant from the State of Iowa, a partnership with the County Fair Board, and many dedicated volunteers - another story about a group of dedicated people who live and work here.
Another example of community involvement was the name change in 2003 from Martin Luther Homes to Mosaic. The efforts of a group of long-time volunteers helped Mosaic navigate this change. These volunteers arranged to have an artist create a Mosaic logo quilt to mark the occasion. That quilt has been displayed in Mosaic’s local office since that time. During this anniversary year, the quilt will be proudly on display at Robey Memorial Library in Waukon.
Eveyone is invited to join Mosaic’s Anniversary Celebration this summer in downtown Waukon, see the Fair Play book about the fair project, discover more local history, learn about home tours and how to get involved with a host home and help Mosaic continue to grow.