Stories that Inspire – EMBRACING THE MISSION

Stories that Inspire – EMBRACING THE MISSION!

The Pampuch Family Embraces the Mission

The St. Louis Guanella Village was conceptualized in 2010, St. Louis Center’s 50th Anniversary Year, as an integrated community for people of all abilities.
This was a move away from the old congregate housing style and offers a much more personalized and independent lifestyle for residents. St. Louis Center’s goal was to build an inclusive community where everyone feels welcomed and accepted.
Fast forward to the present, and the Village is now home to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, several family members, and all others who wish to live in this very tranquil, intentional community. The dream of many has become a reality. Just this year, we had parents of a St. Louis Center resident move into one of the residential houses to be nearer their daughter while maintaining space and independence.
Juanita Pampuch, who newly resides in the Village with her husband Gary, said this about living in this intentional community, “My daughter lives in the Village with her friends. We were looking for a family environment for her, and St. Louis Center offers things that are not offered anywhere in the state, such as daily activities and regular opportunities to safely go out into the community. My husband and I know everyone in the Village, which is wonderful. We are independent now, but if something happens to either of us, we know that there will be help whenever we need it.”
This approach to integrated living provides opportunities for individuals with disabilities to live, work, and socialize alongside their non-disabled peers. Individuals like Juanita and Gary are great examples of embracing St. Louis Center’s mission as they become new neighbors and fast friends with our amazing residents.

If I need anything from my parents, I can call them. My mom can come right over. She lives just down the street.” - Jacqui

St. Louis Center has realized its vision, thanks to its many supporters, and plans to continue to construct additional affordable and integrated housing.

Thank YOU for embracing our mission!

Jacqui enjoys Fitness Parade

Lee Chambers leads the CHS football team onto the field

Meeting with State Reps

Embracing the Mission

Your donation in ANY amount gets us closer to meeting the match!

Donate by credit card, debit, or EFT using the online form below, or send a check to St. Louis Center 16195 Old US 12, Chelsea, MI 48118.

Help cover the cost of benevolent care for residents like Jacqui.

Many of the residents at the center, rely on your help to provide the Benevolent Care that is needed to help him maintain his community-oriented life.

We use the term Benevolent Care often here at St. Louis Center, but what does that mean? The Center receives funding from residents (through social security), their families and/or state and federal sources. However, the cost of care exceeds those reimbursements by $3,000 to $5,000 a month per resident, depending on their level of need. St. Louis Center must raise Benevolent Care funds to cover that gap. Those funds provide for direct care workers who provide for residents’ daily needs, shelter, clothing, food, and things like toiletries and supplies.

Benevolent Care donations are tax deductible and help St. Louis Center provide a dynamic and engaged life for its 55 residents each day. You can learn more about Benevolent Care at St. Louis Center here.

Who can I speak with about donating to St. Louis Center?

St. Louis Center’s Development Department staff would be happy to speak with you about your giving options and to answer any questions you may have about the Center, its programs, and its vision for the future.

Email slcdev@stlouiscenter.org or call 734-475-8430 x260.

Or, we invite you to visit St. Louis Center to see our facility and the good work we do. Schedule a visit today!

An acknowledgment will be sent to you for your tax-deductible gift.