Manitou Center - 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.

A Division of MSDC. A Community of Opportunity.

At Manitou Center, a division of Marshall-Starke Development Center (MSDC), we believe people learn best through meaningful experiences and relationships. Our programs encourage creativity, confidence, independence, and community involvement through hands-on learning every day.

Manitou Center, A Division of Marshall-Starke Development Center (MSDC), empowers adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to build life skills, explore their interests, and strengthen their independence through meaningful community experiences, volunteerism, and personalized support.

At Manitou Center, every day is centered on choice, connection, and opportunity—helping individuals thrive while making a positive impact throughout Fulton County.

  • 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

    Volunteer opportunities, community outings, and partnerships that build confidence while giving back.

  • 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 instruction in communication, budgeting, cooking, technology, daily living, and workplace readiness.

  • 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

    Building independence through decision-making, recreation, creative arts, and individualized goals.

  • 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

    Collaborating with local businesses, schools, libraries, nonprofits, and civic organizations throughout Fulton County.

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

Life at Manitou Center

As part of MSDC's Adult Services, participants enjoy a balanced week of learning, recreation, community involvement, and social connection. Every activity is designed to promote independence while helping each person discover new interests, build lasting friendships, and reach personal goals.

Programs include:

  • Art and creative workshops

  • Music and performing arts

  • Cooking and nutrition

  • Shopping and budgeting

  • Communication and social skills

  • Fitness and wellness

  • Volunteer opportunities

  • Community outings

  • Seasonal events and celebrations

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'.

Building Stronger Communities Together

Manitou Center participants actively volunteer and partner with organizations across Fulton County. These experiences strengthen independence while allowing participants to make meaningful contributions to their community.

  • 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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Support Manitou Center. Strengthen Our Community.

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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