It is with admiration and love that we announce the retirement of Marge Dent from Hiawatha Homes on June 3, 2022. Marge has touched countless lives and will be missed by our entire Hiawatha community.

We want to honor Marge for her 40 years of supporting individuals living with disabilities and her dedication to the mission of Hiawatha Homes.

Please consider making a donation to Hiawatha Homes in honor of Marge’s many years of service to the disability community. You may also add to her Kudoboard and wish her well on her retirement!

Marge Dent: A Legacy of Leadership

For 40 years, Marge Dent has been a valued leader at Hiawatha Homes. Although she retires on June 3, Marge’s legacy will live on through the impact she has had on Hiawatha Homes and individuals with disabilities. 

In 1982, after a recommendation from a friend, Marge started as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at the Hiawatha Adult Home. Previously, Marge was a substitute teacher and had never worked with people living with disabilities. At first Marge viewed her career switch as temporary, but at Hiawatha Homes she found her passion. 

“My favorite part of my career has been the relationships I developed with my peers and the individuals,” explains Marge. 

Throughout the years Marge moved up in her role, and in 1993 she was promoted to a Program Director. She also advanced in her schooling, and in 2008 received her Master’s in Education. As a leader, Marge has managed countless House Coordinators, Program Managers, and DSPs. She has also been a part of Hiawatha Homes evolution from two primary facilities, a Children’s Home and an Adult Home, to over 20 community-based homes throughout Olmsted County. 

“I have enjoyed being a manager and watching staff blossom and develop. I have also enjoyed being a part of the planning process for houses being built and Hiawatha Homes growing,” says Marge. 

Just as Marge has been a central force in Hiawatha Homes’ growth and development, she has also been a part of the changing landscape of disability services. As Hiawatha Homes transitioned to community-based homes, individuals had more freedom, independence, and opportunities to go out into the community. The staffing ratio also improved and supports increased to meet the needs of the individuals. As Marge witnessed and took part in these changes, she saw the lives of individuals with disabilities improve and she continued to find joy in her work. 

“At Hiawatha I have seen dreams come true. There were individuals who wanted to water ski or fly on a plane, and we made it happen for them,” explains Marge. 

As Marge transitions into retirement, Hiawatha Homes will stay close to her heart. Marge will continue to be a volunteer and involved with disability services, including as a Board Member for the local Civitan International Club. She also has plans to do many home projects, spend time training her dog, and visit family, specifically two of her great-nephews who she has not been able to meet yet. 

Thank you, Marge, for your commitment to Hiawatha Homes and individuals living with disabilities! Enjoy your well-earned retirement and you will always be a part of the Hiawatha Homes family!