When I joined Group Homes of Winona as the Primary Counselor in April 1976, I didn’t fully grasp how transformative the next few months—and years—would be. By August of 1976, we opened the doors at 377 Main Street, marking the start of a program unlike anything Winona had seen.

This wasn’t just a job for me; it was an opportunity to create a home. Licensed as an Intermediate Care Facility for the Mentally Retarded (ICF/MR), the house was governed by stringent state and federal regulations. While the paperwork and oversight often felt overwhelming, our focus was always on the residents—their growth, independence, and happiness.

The Early Days:
When I arrived, 377 Main was already home to three individuals. They were renting rooms from Dr. Palazza, a psychiatrist who owned the property and operated a counseling business there. Before the program officially opened, our small team worked tirelessly to familiarize ourselves with licensing requirements and prepare for what was to come.

It was an enormous undertaking. We had to ensure every detail was in place—policies written, procedures established, and staff trained. Collaboration was key. Our consultants became invaluable partners: Margaret Driscoll, our social worker, helped us understand the residents’ needs. Dan Goltz, the pharmacist, worked with us on medication safety and training. A registered nurse oversaw healthcare and hands-on care, while a nutritionist from Winona Health meticulously approved our menus. Dr. Bill Davis, our physician consultant, reviewed residents’ medical records quarterly and was always available for advice.

Preparing the Home:
The house itself had to meet exacting standards. State Fire Marshal Jerry White conducted inspections to ensure fire safety compliance. Everything from the curtains to the carpeting had to be flame retardant, and fire drills became a monthly routine. I remember standing in the basement, teaching residents how to use the emergency storm door to escape if needed.

Even the layout of the house required adjustments. While there was only one single bedroom, most rooms were doubles. It was a balancing act to create a space that felt both personal and communal—a place residents could call home.

A Focus on Independence:
From the beginning, the mission of 377 Main was clear: help residents develop the skills they needed to live as independently as possible. This was never meant to be a permanent home but a stepping stone toward greater autonomy.

Each resident had personalized goals tailored to their abilities and aspirations. Some focused on household tasks like cooking or laundry, while others worked on budgeting, social safety, and navigating the community. Staff supported them every step of the way, collecting data, writing monthly progress reports, and collaborating with their teams.

Life in the Community:
One of the best aspects of 377 Main was its location near downtown Winona. The residents could walk to the store, visit the bank, and attend social events, all while learning crucial life skills. We even partnered with Winona’s special education transition program, which brought students to the house to practice independent living.

For residents preparing to move on, the small efficiency apartment attached to the house became a training ground. It allowed them to experience living alone while still having support nearby. Watching them take those first steps toward independence was one of the most rewarding parts of my job.

Collaboration and Creativity:
Our work extended far beyond the home’s walls. We collaborated with the Developmental Achievement Center (DAC) to support individuals who needed additional care. Professionals came in to provide training on everything from oral hygiene to healthy eating. St. Mary’s University seminarians volunteered their time, forming connections that enriched the lives of our residents and the students alike.

I’ll never forget the Buddy Program at St. Mary’s. Thursday evenings in the gym were filled with laughter, games, and the simple joy of community. Weekly house meetings at 377 Main gave residents a chance to share their thoughts, work through challenges, and even lead discussions, fostering both leadership and advocacy.

The Challenges of Licensing:
Of course, it wasn’t always smooth sailing. The licensing process was exhaustive, with unannounced inspections and strict standards to meet. Whether it was reviewing medication administration, meal preparation, or fire safety protocols, we always had to be ready. It sometimes felt like an “I gotcha” system, designed to catch us off guard.

Despite the pressure, I was proud of the work we did. Every licensing review was an opportunity to improve. Every review pushed us to do better for the people who called 377 Main home.

A Home Filled with Heart:
Looking back, what stands out most are the relationships we built—within the home, with families, and in the community. While the program was highly regulated, we never lost sight of the residents. This was their home, and we worked hard to make sure it felt like one.

There was so much laughter, so many shared meals, and countless small victories. I learned as much from the residents as they learned from us. Together, we created something special—a place where individuals could build confidence, develop independence, and live with dignity and respect.

The Legacy of 377 Main:
Though the program evolved over time, the heart of 377 Main never changed. It was always about the people—empowering them to grow, supporting them through challenges, and celebrating their achievements.

I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of its story. The lessons I learned there will stay with me forever.