St. Ann Center for Intergenerational Care, found at 2801 East Morgan Avenue in Milwaukee, WI, stands as a nonprofit facility with a strong focus on bringing children, adults, and the elderly together under one roof, which gives it a very homey, welcoming feel you can see as soon as you walk in, with European-inspired décor, a bright atrium, and spaces where all ages mix and mingle during the day. The facility serves children from 1 month old to 17, with programs that fit specific age groups, and also cares for adults, especially those who are frail, have dementia, live with disabilities, or need day services. There's a child care center, summer camp, and an award-winning child care program for the young folks, and for adults, there are adult day services, overnight respite care, outpatient therapies, and even weekend hours-folks can come during the week from 7 AM to 5 PM, and weekends from 8 AM to 4 PM, which really helps families that need a bit of flexibility. It doesn't operate like a nursing home, but instead goes for a peaceful, home-like environment that lets everyone, young or old, maintain their dignity and independence, so you see people joining group activities like music therapy, art classes, or daily exercise, and sometimes even field trips out into the community, and the caregivers make sure everyone feels safe and cared for while they're there. The staff follows health, safety, and educational standards required by licensing, but the license itself isn't verified, which might matter to some families looking around, but it doesn't seem to stop anyone from coming or enjoying the services.
They have lots of things you might not expect, like a warm-water pool that's wheelchair accessible for both kids and adults, a dental clinic for healthy smiles, a hair and nail salon, massage and reiki services, and even whirlpool baths for those who might need help with mobility or just want to relax a bit, and that goes for people in the community too, not just the folks signed up for day care. They bring everyone together with intergenerational care-young and old working on art together, visiting the Indaba Band Shell for music, or just sitting in the baby room and rocking the babies, and you see that it's about forming real friendships between all ages. Nursing care's available when needed, including help with grooming, toileting, and getting around, and there's a respite center for short-term overnight stays if a caregiver needs a break. They run theme days, host community events like galas or golf outings, and support caregivers with programs and guides like "Caring for Generations," all while sticking close to Franciscan values, which means compassion, reverence for every life, and respect for every person, no matter their background, faith, or ability to pay.
Children, adults with disabilities, and older adults all find something to do, whether that's swimming, painting ceramics, listening to music, or joining a caregiver support group. Folks with physical or developmental disabilities, emotional or mental health needs, or who've had traumatic brain injuries also find help here. There's even the Shepherd's House indoor market and a variety of wraparound services, supportive therapies, and a strong push to foster dignity and purpose so everyone has a reason to get up in the morning and go. The whole facility is wheelchair accessible, there's plenty of parking, and all services aim to help clients return home to their families at the end of the day, staying as independent as possible, instead of being in a residential or nursing home setting. St. Ann Center stands out for the way it brings together several generations, offering a safe, loving, and respectful community for all ages.
