KANDU Industries Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization that provides programs and services to people with disabilities and disadvantages, continues to find new ways to support Rock County community members with disabilities and disadvantages, including the recent licensing of an adult family home. Licensed by the State of Wisconsin’s Department of Health Services, the four-bedroom home on Janesville’s northeast side will serve KANDU clients with intellectual and/or physical disabilities by providing a home to live in and staff to ensure a long-term, safe, warm, and comfortable living experience.

The home has a paved walking and biking trail along the property line and a bus stop .3 miles away. “This location was originally built as a community-based residential facility, so it is a perfect fit. The house is fully accessible and will allow our residents to age in place,” Program Director Julie Smith said. The home will initially accommodate people who are ambulatory, with accommodations for mobility aids coming soon. 

“The new adult family home demonstrates KANDU’s commitment to consistently look for new ways to improve the lives of our community members with disabilities,” said Kathy Hansen, KANDU’s executive director.  In the last three years, KANDU has added three new programs – Daily Living Skills, Livin’ & Learnin’, and the new adult family home.  “We are fortunate to be positioned in a community that supports our mission and is invested in the health and well-being of our citizens with disabilities and disadvantages,” said Hansen.

Overnight staff in the home will assist residents with morning routines Monday-Friday including breakfast, medications, daily living activities, and any additional support needed.  A staff member will be available on-site all hours of the weekend. Background checks will be required for all staff and residents in the home. KANDU is currently hiring for adult family home staff roles. If interested, job descriptions and applications can be found on Indeed for weekend days and weekend overnights.

This new service aligns with KANDU’s recent announcement of plans and renovations focused on offering expanded opportunities for adults with disabilities and disadvantages in Rock County. KANDU expects to launch a capital campaign to help fund the project in the near future. Businesses and individuals who are interested in learning more about becoming an early donor to the campaign are encouraged to contact KANDU at 608.755.4123 or email khansen@kanduindustries.com.