developmental & behavioral health clinic now open
The brand-new Hills & Dales Developmental & Behavioral Health Clinic opened in early July. Led by Jennifer Manternach, DNP, ARNP, CPNP-PC, PMHNP-BC, the clinic specializes in comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis and individualized intervention for children and adults with a range of behavioral, developmental and learning challenges.
A significant milestone occurred in August 2025 when Jennifer rendered Hills & Dales’ first autism diagnosis. As an area leader of autism services, Hills & Dales now adds the ability to diagnose autism in children. With early diagnosis being critical to qualifying for therapies, this service will decrease the current 12-18 month wait time for diagnosis experienced across the state. This is an exciting milestone as we aim to further improve the lives of area children and their families.
youth community-based duplex buildout
The first Hills & Dales Residential Based Supported Community Living home (duplex) is currently being built in the Dubuque area! The home is anticipated to open by early 2026.
This home will be the first time Hills & Dales is able to offer 24 hour supports to children outside the walls of the Residential Center, marking a truly new opportunity for children in need of services.
Lisa’s Story
The journey Lisa has taken to get to where she is today...proudly showing off her new home in the Quad Cities....was at times complex and challenging. However, with her determination, spunk, the love of her mother, and the support of Hills & Dales, she is now truly thriving and loving life.
As a teen, Lisa moved into the Hills & Dales Residential Center in 2019 after living with her mother. She needed the increased structure and 24-hour staffing that her diagnoses demanded. Just a few years ago, Lisa was likely one of the most physically, medically and behaviorally complex individuals in the state. The Hills & Dales team refused to give up on her.
After Lisa graduated as a Hempstead Mustang, her focus became moving closer to her mother and becoming more independent. Lisa achieved this in April of 2025 and is currently living just down the road from her mother in the Quad Cities with 24-hour supports from Hills & Dales. With anticipation and a love of the holidays, Christmas will be a bit more special as she celebrates this year with her niece and nephew.
partners & advocates
As dedicated advocates for the disability community, we are honored to share our experience and expertise with a wide range of community partners.
The following is a sampling of the organizations and initiatives with which we have collaborated, led and shared resources over the past year:
Iowa Association of Community Providers
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque
Dubuque Nature Everywhere
Community Partnership for Protecting Children - Dubuque, Jackson and Clinton counties
Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE)
