Following the celebration of the organization’s 50th anniversary, Human Support Services has already begun work on a major renovation project that will see the building almost entirely revamped over the course of several years.

Per a press release, renovations for the HSS headquarters at the corner of Route 3 and Country Club Lane in Waterloo – originally designed in the 1970s to serve as the Knights of Columbus Hall – are set to take place in seven phases costing an estimated $3.2 million.

Middendorf and Reuss Construction of Freeburg was selected as the design-build contractor for this project.

While the plans particulars aren’t entirely set in stone, current design documents indicate changes to essentially every part of the building, with new offices and other facilities in the life skills training space, some substantial changes to the room layout of the discovery center including a lounge and board room, and some slight changes to the administration wing.

Phase one of the project centers around the counseling wing of the building, which, among other changes, will see several HSS offices removed in order to make each office larger.

As the press release explains, the changes to this part of the building will also focus on improving energy efficiency with new lighting, HVAC systems and insulation.

Construction for phase one began Dec. 20 and is expected to last about four months.

HSS Development Director Courtney Hunter offered broader comments on the project.

Hunter explained that issues with the roof, plumbing, HVAC and insulation were some of the main reasons for this major renovation, along with simply improving the overall functionality of the building.

She added that along with improved energy efficiency, changes to the building’s structure will “allow more privacy and security for individuals seeking services.”

“As programs and best practices change, so too must the building,” Hunter said. “A renovation will allow HSS to more effectively use the current space and meet the needs of the communities we humbly serve.”

Regarding funding for the project, Hunter said “financing will be an ongoing process that could affect the timeline” of the project, with the organization pursuing various sources of funding including private donations, foundation grants and special events.

Funding for phase one of these HSS renovations has already been secured.

Hunter also commented on changes to the life skills training space, as it was previously expressed by HSS President and CEO Anne Riley that the agency’s work center – which provides work for about two dozen HSS clients with developmental disorders – is expected to be phased out as more focus is placed on helping these clients find employment within the community.

Hunter said that while this part of the building will be reconfigured to house more offices, space for the programming will remain.

“HSS has been ahead of the curve with integration into community employment,” Hunter said. “We are fortunate to have many great community partners in this arena. It is important to note that there will still be an engaging community day service program for those in which community employment is not desired.”

Regarding the actual construction process, Hunter said the organization’s focuses have been what will have the most public impact on its services and how the renovations can be most efficiently and economically completed.

“The phases of renovation are being completed in an order that will have the most impact to those we already serve coupled with what is most financially prudent all while allowing for program growth to meet the need of the community,” Hunter said. “Our clients and our commitment to fulfill our mission, helping all people live their best lives, remain at the forefront of everything we do.”

HSS serves over 1,500 individuals each year through various programs, including outpatient mental health counseling, substance use disorder treatment, and vocational and residential support for those  living with developmental disabilities/mental illness. 

In addition, HSS provides 24/7 crisis services and works closely with Monroe County schools and local law enforcement.

For more information about HSS, call 618-939-4444 or visit hss1.org.