Elaina Ruesch is a DSP in our school age program. Read more about how she got connected with Hand in Hand and her role as Miss Iowa’s Teen.

I remember the first time my oldest child swore. He was about two and commented on the outcome of the Chicago Bears game. I laughed so hard that tears came. He used the word correctly, intentionally and…

Section 504 is what protects people with disabilities from discrimination and requires accommodation in settings like schools and healthcare.

Right now, we believe the most urgent issue is the federal budget and proposed Medicaid funding cuts. While we still do not have clarity on what specific programs may be affected or how spending reductions will be handled, these decisions could have serious consequences for families, providers, and the individuals we serve.

Communication is a fundamental human right, but not everyone communicates the same way. Thanks to advancements in assistive technology, communication devices have been developed to help those with speech and mobility impairments interact more easily with the world around them.

People with Purpose began volunteering with Humble Dwellings in July of 2024. Twice a month, participants work in Humble Dwellings storage facility where the organization collects and stores their home furnishings.

Meet Jacey, Hand in Hand’s Lead Direct Support Professional for the School Age Program.

Hand in Hand’s 16^th annual Chili Cook-Off presented by Quad City Bank and Trust is not just an event; it’s a community celebration that brings people together to support children and adults of all abilities. This exciting event wouldn’t be possible without the help of dedicated volunteers like you! Whether you're a seasoned volunteer or new to the cause, there’s a place for everyone at the Chili Cook-Off. Here’s how you can get involved and what you can look forward to as a volunteer.

What is your current role at Hand in Hand? HR and Administrative Assistant

At 35 years old, our son Peter is a remarkable young man living with autism. As his parents, we have embarked on an unexpected journey. Diagnosed at the tender age of two, we were fortunate to access early interventions and services tailored to his needs. Yet, despite this support, there are moments when it feels like something is inherently broken, leaving us with a sense of helplessness.

Deb Mueller first connected with Hand in Hand as a volunteer during Read United with the United Way of the Quad Cities. She spent time reading to school-age kids at the Edwards Church location in Davenport.

Susan reported on our very first camp back in 2000 as a former reporter for WQPT. Now, 24 years later she joined us as a camp buddy during our most recent Camp Hand in Hand.

Hand in Hand and occupational therapy, the two fit so seamlessly into conversation together. To put it simply, occupational therapy has an overall goal of increasing performance and/or participation in anything its clients want or need to do in their lives.

I’m sure by now, if you’ve been to any Hand in Hand event or stopped by one of our locations, you’ve met Chuck, our therapy dog. Chuck, a 10-year-old labradoodle aptly named for Chuck Norris in Walker, Texas Ranger, was trained in Ranger, TX by All Purpose Canines to be a diabetes alert dog for a little boy.

I am currently one of the 3 staff for Hand in Hand’s Adventurous Summer Club where I get the pleasure to work with a great group of young adult participants.

We are thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership between Hand in Hand and the Bix. This collaboration brings a special treat for our campers—a Hand in Hand Virtual Race at Camp Hand in Hand!

I am currently a supervisor at Edward’s Church for our summer enrichment program! During the school year, I work with our after-school program.

Claire is our new Senior Director of Programs, but first and foremost she’s a parent to Sarah, one of our long-time participants. Sarah started participating in camp when she was 6 or 7 and has been a participant ever since.

What is your current role at Hand in Hand: I am the preschool teacher at Hand in Hand.