History

Crossroads of Western Iowa (Monona Services, Inc.) was begun in 1975 by the Monona County Association for Retarded Citizens. It was the intent of this group of people to develop services for people with disabilities based around a certain set of beliefs, or values. These core values have remained with the organization over the years, although they have not been articulated in writing. 
For any organization to grow and prosper, they must be able to adapt to the various pressures and concerns of the day. Crossroads of Western Iowa strives to adapt to the changes in our environment, as well as meeting the changing needs of the people we serve. Our organization can and will change as needed. What will not change is our core values. 

Crossroads of Western Iowa Timeline

1975 - Incorporated in May under the name of Monona Services, Inc. Originally founded by the Monona County ARC (Association for Retarded Citizens), services were provided in a rented property in downtown Onawa Iowa to 8 consumers. After a few years, a building was purchased on 301 – 10th Street, in the north part of town.

1980’s - By the mid 1980’s a couple additions had been added to the original building, and the number of consumers in service went up to 35 people. Work for the consumers consisted of building wooden boxes for Westendorf Manufacturing in Onawa, pallets for Wells Blue Bunny in LeMars, and opening a can and bottle redemption center at the shop.

1989 - A 4,000 sq. ft. building was purchased on South Harrison Street in Missouri Valley Iowa and services began to 6 consumers.

1995- The name of the organization changed to Crossroads of Western Iowa.

2000 - Crossroads of Western Iowa purchased a 5,000 sq. ft. building at 16th Street and 9th Avenue in Council Bluffs and began an ADP (Adult Day Program). The Council Bluffs ADP program currently serves 34 individuals in meaningful programs designed specifically for the individual needs of the consumer.

2003 - In January a separate housing corporation was formed in Onawa to provide HUD housing for 8 individuals in individual apartments in a 2 building complex know as Pearl Court with occupancy in January, 2004.

2006 - In Council Bluffs, another housing corporation was formed to provide HUD housing for 14 individuals in a 12 apartment, 3 building complex known as the Indian Creek Apartments. Many other individuals have been supported in their homes/apartments throughout the 3 county area.

Pathways of Western Iowa is a related service that began in Council Bluffs for individuals with mental illness and brain injury. Pathways began services in July 2001 and provides needed supports for daily living both in the home and in the community. Skills such as balancing a checkbook, taking proper medications and arranging transportation are just a few of the varied needs of the individuals served.