Helping more people shine: How Hills & Dales is expanding opportunity through supported employment

On a Monday morning in Dubuque, Iowa, Hannah is busy tagging clothing at Plato’s Closet. Her phone sits close by—her friendly lifeline to Tyler, her job coach. When she needs a little extra guidance, he’s just a tap away.

This simple setup represents something much bigger.

Hannah is part of the Hills & Dales Supported Employment program, which helps individuals with disabilities find meaningful work in our community. And for Hannah, having a job isn’t just about a paycheck. It’s about confidence. Purpose. And the pride that comes with knowing she’s making a difference.

Empowering people through meaningful work

Since launching in 2017, the Supported Employment program has helped connect job seekers with businesses throughout the Dubuque area. From restaurants and retail to manufacturing and recreation, the program has partnered with 44 local employers.

“Work is very meaningful for our clients,” says Kara Huss, Community Services Director at Hills & Dales. “It helps create self-confidence and a greater sense of purpose, while also helping employers fill a need.”

Today, 30 individuals participate in the program. Twenty‑one are currently employed, and the others are actively searching for the right position. But demand continues to grow—15 more individuals are waiting for the opportunity to begin.

That’s where additional support makes all the difference.

A boost from the Dupaco Foundation

With help from a 2025 Dupaco Foundation Nonprofit Grant, Hills & Dales is expanding the Supported Employment program through new technology and additional staff training—both of which will help the organization serve more people, more effectively.

This support aligns deeply with the Dupaco Foundation’s Upskilling pillar, which focuses on expanding access to training, education and certifications that help people build skills for stable, good‑paying jobs. By investing in programs that prepare people for employment, the Foundation helps individuals increase their earning potential while strengthening entire communities.

And at Hills & Dales, that impact is already taking shape.

1. Technology that builds independence

New tools, including virtual assistance technology, help clients be more independent on the job. Instead of relying only on in‑person support, clients who are ready for more independence can connect virtually with job coaches—just like Hannah does—allowing them to build confidence and navigate workplace tasks with greater autonomy.

These tools also allow job coaches to support several clients simultaneously. That potentially means shorter waitlists, more job placements and more people achieving their goals.

2. Growing the future workforce—from the inside out

The grant also helps Hills & Dales invest in their own team by supporting staff who want to become certified job coaches. At least five employees are expected to receive state‑required training and certifications.

These credentials not only strengthen the quality and consistency of services, but they also help staff grow their careers and earn higher wages. As the organization builds more coaching capacity, their ability to provide sustainable support to clients grows too.

Building a stronger community together

For Hills & Dales, the Supported Employment program represents much more than job placement. It’s about helping every individual—regardless of ability—access the support they need to thrive and lead meaningful lives.

And this is exactly why the Dupaco Foundation is proud to support this work. Because when people gain the skills, training and confidence to grow—when they’re supported in finding meaningful employment—our workforce becomes stronger, our communities become more resilient and individuals like Hannah shine even brighter.

When people have the opportunity to reach their full potential, everyone benefits.

Learn more about the ways Dupaco Foundation supports nonprofit organizations in our communities >