March 2026
A lifetime of service has defined Monna’s path — whether she was helping on the farm, working as a nurse, or raising four children. Today, that same spirit of care surrounds her at Heartland’s Adult Day Center in Ames. For Monna, it’s a meaningful reminder that collective well-being means showing up for each other at every stage of life.
As access to in-home services grows, more Story County seniors are able to stay in the place they love most: home. But staying home longer can sometimes mean seeing fewer people, losing daily routines, and slowly drifting from the communities that give life meaning.
That's why UWSC invests in Heartland's Adult Day Center. It's not just a place to receive care. It's a place to belong. In 2025, UWSC helped provide 3,863 days of adult day care for Story County seniors, giving older adults a reason to get up, get out, and get together. For people like Monna, the positive environment at the Center grants a reliable routine. Twice a week, Monna goes in to play card games, share stories, and support those around her. “The games that we play and the interaction with other people is great for us,” she shares.
A Place to Belong
Monna energetically joins in daily exercises led by the staff, enjoying the opportunity to stay active. “It uses muscles that we wouldn’t be using otherwise, and I’m all for it.” She reflects. Staff at the center engage participants in wellness through healthy meals and activities, creating an energetic, thriving community.
Monna is a steady companion that people rely on. Her bright light shines through in the stories she tells. While listening to the daily news briefing, a woman next to her became overwhelmed, so she held Monna’s hand the whole time. “I thought she needed that, and that’s what I’m good at, interacting with people.” Monna seeks to build community with everyone at the center. Another one of her friends doesn’t speak English, but Monna knows that “she’s so sweet and so loving,” even across language barriers. Monna is leading by example, showing how to build a community where everyone feels seen and supported.
Monna has long understood the importance of community and caring for others, which makes the compassion and sense of belonging embodied at Heartland’s Adult Day Center all the more meaningful. “I can’t say enough about the staff. They are just wonderful. They don’t ignore a problem; they’re right there to take care of it. I dearly love all of them.” Monna says with great sincerity.
Monna is deeply grateful for Heartland’s consistently positive environment. By partnering with United Way of Story County, Heartland seeks to make its services accessible across financial circumstances, so all can partake in the community Monna enjoys. “I highly recommend this place,” she reiterates. “I just feel so comfortable here.”