DRCC: 60 Years of Purpose, People & Possibility

Shelly Peterson
4 hours ago
3 min read

Listen to Podcast Here: DRCC

In a world where meaningful work is often talked about, but not always lived, DRCC (Duluth Regional Care Center) stands as a powerful example of what it looks like to truly make a difference.

Founded by a group of parents who believed their children with developmental disabilities deserved more, DRCC has grown into a cornerstone nonprofit organization across Northeastern Minnesota. As they approach their 60th anniversary in 2026, their mission remains as clear and impactful as ever: to support individuals in living meaningful, self-directed lives through person-centered care.

A Mission Rooted in People

At its core, DRCC is about people—both those they serve and those who serve alongside them.

During our visit to the Cloquet office, we sat down with Amy Stark (Senior Director), Amber Swenson, and Macey Merling, who each shared insights into what makes DRCC so unique.

Amy reflected on her journey back to purpose:

“When I turned 50 as a supervisor in another position, I realized I had worked myself away from people. I wanted to come back to the people. At DRCC, employees feel valued—and they stay. This is a good company with good people.”

That sentiment is echoed throughout the organization. There’s a noticeable sense of longevity and fulfillment among staff—something that speaks volumes in today’s workforce climate.

Amber Swenson offered a glimpse into the day-to-day impact:

“On a typical day, we meet with 3–4 clients for about two hours each—either at our office or in their homes. We focus on what’s important to someone, not just what’s important for them.”

Services That Empower Independence

DRCC provides a comprehensive range of services designed to meet individuals where they are while helping them grow toward greater independence and a higher quality of life.

Their primary services include:

Home and Community-Based Waivered Homes
Semi-Independent Living Services (SILS)
Individualized Home Supports (IHS)
Accessing Services (guiding clients through funding, resources, and care options)

Each service is delivered through a person-centered approach, ensuring that every individual’s goals, preferences, and dignity remain at the forefront.

A Regional Impact That Continues to Grow

Today, DRCC operates 40 programs across Carlton, St. Louis, and Lake counties, supported by a team of approximately 400 staff serving over 350 clients.

The main office in Duluth anchors operations across the region
The Cloquet office includes a team of 15 staff serving around 30 local clients

Their internal training systems and structured support model ensure consistency, quality, and care, regardless of location.

But with growth comes opportunity and need.

A Call for Purpose-Driven Professionals

DRCC is actively looking to expand its team.

With increasing demand across Northland, the organization is seeking individuals passionate about helping others and making a real impact in their community.

Amy shared:

“We have several employment positions open. Our workforce needs access to a vehicle, and mileage is reimbursed. If you’re looking for meaningful work, we encourage you to explore opportunities with us.”

DRCC hires across a wide range of roles, including:

Direct Support Professionals
Supervisory and Management Staff
Nurses
Administrative & Accounting Professionals
IT and Maintenance Personnel

👉 Explore opportunities here: https://drccinfo.org/employment

Why DRCC Matters

DRCC isn’t just providing services—it’s building stronger communities.

By supporting individuals with developmental disabilities in living fuller, more independent lives, they are:

Strengthening families
Creating inclusive communities
Providing meaningful careers
And proving that care, when done right, transforms lives on both sides of the relationship

Some organizations talk about impact. Others live it every day.

DRCC is the latter.

And as they approach 60 years of service, one thing is clear—their story isn’t just about care.

It’s about connection.

It’s about dignity.

And most importantly, it’s about people.