Our Mission
At Heart of the City Development Center, our mission is to provide a space for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to continue to explore and develop daily. We are dedicated to helping individuals live their life to the fullest, while providing an educational and socially engaging atmosphere that creates a better tomorrow. We strive to offer an environment that promotes self-respect, independence, and improves the quality of life for all of our enrollees.
Cherie Long, President
Meet our program President Cherie Long. Cherie is the President of Heart of the City Development Center and the Founder of Love and Support Home Care and. She has an extensive career in the healthcare field that spans over 23 years. This includes holding several certifications such as Certified Nursing Assistant, CPR and AED certification, Therapeutic Crisis Intervention, and Court Appointed Special Advocate. She received her associate degree from Delta College in 2022 and is currently working on her bachelor’s degree in social work, set to graduate in the spring of 2024.
Cherie is an executive board member of Saginaw County's Community Mental Health. She received the 2023 Delta College Social Services Award, the 2023 Newman Civic Award from Saginaw Valley State University, and will receive the Heart of the City Award from the City of Saginaw in 2024. Cherie currently serves as a member of the Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce and a member of Kiwanis International.
In addition to Cherie’s career accomplishments, she is raising a 24-year-old daughter who was born developmentally delayed, so this center reflects her deep-rooted passions. Cherie is also an active member of her community as a volunteer with the CAN Council, Child & Family Services, and Sexual Assault Center. Cherie has earned a reputation and is well-known in the community for helping and advocating for those who cannot advocate for themselves.
The center with a heart
Heart of the City Development Center is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that provides a space for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to continue to explore and develop daily. We are dedicated to helping individuals live their life to the fullest, while providing an educational and socially engaging atmosphere that creates a better tomorrow. We strive to offer an environment that promotes self-respect, independence, and improves the quality of life for all of our enrollees.
We intend to offer the highest quality care and day program services in the Saginaw County area. What will set Heart of the City Development Center apart from other centers in our area is our commitment to providing educational and daily life skill services beyond the age of 26.
