MSDC Manitou - Rochester

Two men sitting at a picnic table outside hugging and smiling, one wearing a red T-shirt and the other wearing a gray T-shirt, a red baseball cap, and glasses, with trees and a blue sky in the background.

Located in Fulton County, the Manitou Center is a vibrant extension of Marshall-Starke Development Center (MSDC), where participants build life skills, explore interests, and give back through community-based learning and volunteerism.

Our focus is on choice, connection, and contribution - helping individuals grow independence while strengthening the community around them.

Group of six people standing outdoors under a large autumn tree with orange and green leaves, with fallen leaves on the ground, on a sunny day.

At Manitou Center, we believe learning happens best through real experiences and relationships.


Our programs encourage creativity, confidence, and collaboration by offering:

  • A group of people standing under a black canopy behind a table decorated with lemons and green leaves. The table has signs advertising lemonade and cookies for sale. Some people are holding signs, and there is a sign in front of the table with prices for the lemonade and cookies.

    Community Engagement

    Hands-on volunteer opportunities at local organizations and events.

  • A smiling man with glasses and a red t-shirt sitting at a table with art supplies and paper, holding a glue stick.

    Skill Development

    Practical activities in budgeting, communication, art, and daily living.

  • A man holding a microphone sings or speaks, with a man playing an acoustic guitar seated beside him. There are pumpkins on a table behind them, and a

    Personal Growth

    Opportunities to explore hobbies, practice decision-making, and celebrate accomplishments.

  • Police officer speaking to a group of adults at a community conversation event, with a wall display of framed photos and awards in the background.

    Inclusive Partnerships

    Collaborations with businesses, schools, libraries, and nonprofits across Fulton County.

Group of people at an art activity holding up painted portrait artworks inside a room with a

Life at Manitou

Through a rotating calendar of group activities, participants enjoy a balanced week of learning, social connection, and recreation. Programs include:

  • Art, music, and creative workshops

  • Cooking and shopping lessons

  • Social and communication skill-building

  • Current events and community engagement

  • Fitness, walking, and swimming activities

  • Volunteer and service groups

Every activity is designed to build independence, spark curiosity, and encourage teamwork.

A police officer is speaking to a group of people seated at a table during a community event at MSDC, a community employment organization. The continuation of the event's theme is visible on a wall with framed photographs and a sign that reads 'Celebrating Community Employment'.

Community Partnerships

Participants at Manitou Center are active volunteers and community members. Together, we contribute to programs such as:

  • Lifecare Center – visiting and playing games with residents

  • The Outlet Youth Center – cleaning and recycling support

  • Helping Hands at St. John’s Lutheran Church – organizing donations for families in need

  • Fulton County Museum – event setup and community support

  • Fulton County Animal Center – socializing adoptable animals

  • Local Parks & Programs – community cleanups and children’s activities

Each partnership helps participants build confidence, develop job-ready skills, and strengthen local connections.

A cheerful person holding a glass paperweight with pink tulip designs inside, standing in a room with a "Manitou Center" sign and colorful artwork on the walls.

Stay connected! Follow Manitou Center Facebook page HERE.

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Join Us in Making a Difference

We welcome community members, organizations, and volunteers who want to share their time and talents. Whether it’s teaching a skill, leading a group, or partnering on a project - your involvement helps create new opportunities for everyone.

manitou@marshall-starke.org
(574) 223-6963

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