About Us
Kenosha Human Development Services (KHDS) works to help all people in the community lead healthy, productive lives. We are a nonprofit agency that seeks to ensure that all people—especially those with the fewest resources—have access to the opportunities and support they need to succeed in life.
With over 40 programs that cover a wide spectrum of services, and 50 years of supporting the community, KHDS has become a cornerstone of care in Kenosha.
Three Pillars Of Support
KHDS works with people from all walks of life, and is committed to a set of values that informs all of its programs.
"We meet people where they are at"
Walking alongside people in difficult times and meeting the needs of the community has been a foundation as we've grown.
"We do what it takes"
We thrive in the challenge of finding ways to get things done for our clients. Our employees give of their time, energy and heart to do whatever they can to help.
"No problem is too big or too small"
Everyone matters. It makes no difference how they come to us, or which challenges they face; every person will be cared about, cared for and treated with dignity, respect and non-judgement.
The History Of KHDS: From humble beginnings to a cornerstone of care in Kenosha
Formation and Initial Services (1973-1974)
In 1973, a citizen committee was established to create treatment homes for teens. Advised by the John Howard Association, an important early focus on family-centered services was established. As an outcome of these initial efforts, Kenosha Area Group Homes (KAGH) emerged, initially aiding girls and offering round-the-clock parenting advice. By 1974, KAGH expanded to include a boys’ home.
Expansion and Name Change (1975-1978)
KAGH expanded its services in 1975 with Shelter Care, a co-ed shelter for family support. In 1976, they initiated a Specialized Foster Parents Program. At this point, the services had evolved to become more therapeutic, and KAGH affirmed its commitment tomeeting the treatment and development needs of the youth and families of Kenosha County. By 1978, KAGH became Kenosha Youth Development Services (KYDS).
Growth and Service Diversification (1984-1996)
KYDS grew significantly in 1984, and reached another milestone by adding adult services under its new Crisis Intervention program. This, and other services under the Kenosha County Comprehensive Board were soon merged into the Community Intervention Center. And the growth in scale and scope didn't stop there: with the 80s and 90s came new programs like the KARE Center, Columbus House, and case management for developmental disabilities.
Rebranding and Continued Development (1997-Present)
As KYDS continued to grow and expand with additional programs targeted towards adults, in 1997, it was renamed Kenosha Human Development Services (KHDS). From that point on, KHDS has continued to develop community-based resources and added new programs - at this point, over 40 - to meet Kenosha’s needs. The "family"-centric foundation that was established early on during the KAGH days has remained a pillar in its approach to care, and many of its programs have been certified by the Teaching Family Association (TFA).
Celebrating 50 Years Of Making a Difference In The Community
We are incredibly grateful for everyone who have helped us grow during the last 50 years, and we feel confident that the community has our back and will continue to support us in our mission to provide quality care in Kenosha.
- Jeannine Field, Executive Director.