Since opening its doors in 2017, Papa’s Place Adult Day Center in downtown Big Rapids has built its reputation on a simple but powerful promise: “We Got You. We’ll Meet You Where You’re At. With Integrity.” That philosophy guides every aspect of the organization, from the care provided to seniors and adults with special needs to the way employees are supported and valued.

Papa’s Place offers a range of services designed to help individuals remain independent, safe and connected to their communities. Services include adult day care, non-medical in-home care, medication management, transition services and advocacy programs. The organization’s focus is always on meeting people where they are in their journey, providing compassionate, individualized support that preserves dignity and quality of life.

What makes Papa’s Place stand out is its commitment to treating clients as people first. The organization believes every client, family member and employee comes with unique experiences, strengths and challenges. By emphasizing compassion, respect, trust and integrity, Papa’s Place creates meaningful relationships that help individuals feel supported and valued.

That same people-first approach extends to hiring. While experience in caregiving and healthcare is important, owner and leadership staff place a strong emphasis on character. They look for individuals who are compassionate, dependable, patient and genuinely committed to helping others. Strong communication skills, reliability, adaptability and teamwork are all qualities that contribute to success within the organization.

“Skills can be taught,” the team explains, “but compassion, integrity and a genuine desire to make a positive difference in someone’s life are qualities that are especially important to us.”

Employees say they appreciate the supportive culture at Papa’s Place, where communication and connection remain priorities even though many team members work independently in clients’ homes or throughout the community. Through daily team communication, employee recognition, wellness resources and ongoing professional development opportunities, employees stay connected and feel supported in their work.

Papa’s Place also invests heavily in employee growth and well-being through training opportunities, wellness counseling resources, monthly incentives and recognition programs. Leaders understand quality care begins with a supported workforce, and they strive to create an environment where employees feel appreciated, heard and empowered to succeed.

Currently, Papa’s Place is seeking compassionate individuals to join its team in several positions, including Care Professionals, Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), Specialized Dementia Care staff and Care Continuity roles. Both full-time and part-time opportunities are available. Starting wages begin at $15 per hour for Care Professionals and $17 per hour for CNAs, with opportunities for additional incentives and specialized care wages reaching up to $20 per hour.

As a longtime partner of Michigan Works! West Central, Papa’s Place has utilized recruitment services, job postings and job fairs to connect with qualified candidates. The organization values the partnership and looks forward to continuing to work with Michigan Works! to attract compassionate caregivers and strengthen the local workforce.

For Papa’s Place, success is measured not only by the services it provides, but by the lives it touches. By creating a culture of compassion, respect and integrity, the organization continues to make a meaningful difference for the individuals and families it serves throughout the region.

If your business is interested in learning more about how Michigan Works! West Central’s programs and services can benefit your company and your employees, contact our Business Engagement team at MWWC.org/Employer-Resources.