What is the name of the business you are nominating?
LADD Living Alternatives for Developmentally Disabled
Who are the owner(s) and/or principals in this company?
Board of Directors Executive Director & Board President Julia Jeffreys
Business Contact Information
300 Whitney St.
Dowagiac, MI 49047
2697834116
How many people work at the company you are nominating?
Average 500
Tell us the story behind the nominated company. What does it do, and what sets them apart from other companies in the region?
Since 1978 LADD has provided support and advocating for vulnerable adults and children in the community. Providing services in Berrien, Cass, Van Buren and Calhoun Counties. Some our expertise is in specialized residential homes, supported independent living, community living supports and respite services. LADD staff is treated with respect and gratitude for doing their job. LADD cares for staff and people supported as family. Staff is diligently trained in CPR, First Aid, and much more. LADD provides appreciation days to staff to mingle with others. LADD couldn’t help the communities with out our great staff. LADD is also involved with contacting legislation on mental health and needs of people. We are a non profit organization working hard for everyone’s needs.
In your own words, why do you think this company deserves to be declared to be one of the 20 Best Places to Work in Michigan’s Great Southwest?
Because it is! They treat us like family. Flexible should a family issue arise. Provide emotional support and assist in finding resources. LADD truly cares about all people. Majority of management team started out as caregivers, definitely hires from with in. A unique opportunity for all.
What makes workers proud to say they work there, and keeps them a part of the team?
Because they are helping those truly in need. Our staff treat people supported as family. Management really cares for staff and doing the right thing. Workers go home knowing they make a difference at work.
Let’s pretend you’re writing a review for Google or Indeed. Give us your best recommendation for the nominated company that would make the rest of us wish we worked there, too.
Want to be a person, not a shift filler? Want to go home knowing you made a difference at work? Can’t work full time but need some hours? LADD is the place for you. Part time staff enjoy benefits along with full time.
What three key words best describe why this company is a Best Places to Work caliber company?
1. Supportive
2. Rewarding
3. Collaborative
As a Best Places to Work company “Super Hero,” what are the two most magical “Super Powers” this company seems to have on a day-to-day basis? (i.e., Ability to read minds, fly, invisibility, etc) And why?
– Personally rewarding
– Engaging
Tell us about the leadership of the nominated company and what they do in order to:
A] Keep spirits and motivation high? Offer positive feedback back. Appreciation gifts. Thank you.
B] Keep innovation and fresh ideas advancing? Always willing to listen and open to new ideas
C] Keep communications open? Staff meetings, management training, outlined clear expectations
Explain a specific “wow!” moment in this company’s history that is virtually “Hall of Fame” or “Best Practices” worthy, as an example to other companies in the region.
Pushed Michigan Dept. Health & Human Services to pay primary care givers better pay. Our directors are always looking to reward staff. Offering retirement match at year end is one example. Not all Non Profits can say that.
Best Places to Work have a reputation for not only working hard, but also for playing hard.
A] How does the nominated company honor or reward success? Gifts, company wide email, company newsletter.
B] How does the nominated company socialize as a team? Offer picnics, holiday activities, team building days
C] How does the nominated company get involved in community events? We are taking people supported out to interact. Staff will volunteer at different non profits
D] How does the nominated company celebrate life? We celebrate all walks if life. We give our team the time needed. We encourage mental health. Life is our job. We honor and assist those with disabilities to live their best life.
What one thing is special about your nominated company that most people in the community have no idea actually happens there, but should be shouted from the rooftops because it’s that cool?
WE LOVE ALL PEOPLE. We care, we care, WE TRULY CARE. It’s not just a job. We are in your community at church, food banks, etc.
Give us three employee perks or benefits that you think make the company you have nominated worthy of a Best Places to Work trophy?
1. Management team building and training
2. Flexible schedules (work every other week, switch with others)
3. Part time benefits are offered
Anything else you’d like to mention about this company, its’ leadership, etc?
LADD’s top leadership majority started as caregivers in the homes. They care for staff as they know in the trenches is hard. They are not afraid to go back in the trenches to help.
