Frequently Asked Questions about Systems Unlimited

Q: What is the Systems Unlimited story?
A: More than 50 years ago, a group of parents of children with disabilities came together to establish a semi-independent living community. At the time, these parents had limited care options for their children. 

They brought their idea to the Johnson County Board of Supervisors, and the first home for children opened in Iowa City in 1971. Today Systems Unlimited continues to provide personalized care to promote independence for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities and mental health challenges. 

Q: Who does SUI serve? 
A: SUI serves people of all ages living with a developmental disability or mental health need that qualifies for Medicaid Waiver or Habilitation programs. Whether support is needed in a private residence, group home setting or to get a job, our focus is on skill building to maintain or increase independence.

Q: How do I apply for services? 
A: To apply for services, please complete an online application. 

Q: Does SUI take donations?
A: Yes! Visit our Donate page to learn how you can make a donation to Systems Unlimited. 

Q: How can I help Systems Unlimited? 
A: Whether you make a financial gift, donate your time, or contribute your skills to our cause, your generosity is key to our success! Visit our Get Involved page to learn more about how you can support Systems Unlimited. 

Q: How many people does SUI serve? 
A: Systems Unlimited serves approximately 400 people.     

Q: How do I become a board member at SUI? 
A: Our Board is made up of the people we serve, parents, guardians and community members who believe in our mission. To apply to become a board member at Systems Unlimited, click here.

Q: How is SUI dealing with COVID-19? 
A: Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we took precautionary measures to ensure everyone’s safety. We treated homes with exposures and quarantined people as needed. Staff exposed were allowed to stay home as directed by the CDC. 

We are proud of the measures we took to protect our staff and the people we serve. Even though the public health emergency is ending, we continue to remain vigilant and monitor the health of those we serve and our employees. We will take all necessary precautions.   

Q: What is your stand on DEI? 
A: At Systems Unlimited, we embrace diversity, equity and inclusion. We believe our diverse staff is our competitive advantage. ‘We Embrace Diversity’ is not just a core value, but what we work to achieve every day. We have established a DEI Committee whose members include our CEO and other members of management. We educate each other and truly make a difference every day. Visit our DEI page to learn more about our DEI efforts and what you can do to help.

Q: How is SUI staying fiscally responsible? 
A: As stewards of Medicaid dollars, we strive to go above and beyond to ensure we are using all monies in a fiscally responsible way. In addition to operating under Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), we have checks and balances across the board, setting the standards when it comes to accounting principles, standards, and procedures that companies must operate under. We have long-term staff who have worked in this field for decades. We operate under a board-approved budget and get audited annually by external auditors. 

You can be assured that all monies Systems receives will go to their intended use, now and in the future. 

Q: Is SUI an environmentally friendly agency? What initiatives support energy efficiency? 
A: While we know our work isn’t done, we believe we are an environmentally friendly agency. We have several initiatives, including a commitment to buy more hybrid vehicles, use LED light bulbs in our homes, and recycle in all offices. Additionally, we promote environmental awareness through staff education, whether by encouraging them to turn off lights, recycle, or discouraging speeding to reduce gasoline usage. 

One of our biggest investments in the last two decades was a geothermal unit to heat and cool the main service center in Iowa City in 2008. This investment has saved thousands for the agency and reduced our carbon footprint. 

Q: What is SUI’s service area? 
A: Systems Unlimited currently serves east central Iowa, primarily in the Iowa City and Cedar Rapids areas. We provide service as far north as Monticello and as far south as Washington. 

Q: Does SUI offer therapy services? 
A: Yes—Systems Unlimited has two therapists on staff that provide therapy services to the people we serve. 

Q: Do you have a group home for adults with disabilities? 
A: Our residential program provides structured support for adults 18 years or older with developmental disabilities in small home settings. These services are based on the strengths and needs of the individual and the amount of structure, support, and services needed by that individual person. Systems Unlimited serves people living with physical and developmental disabilities in homes with three to six other roommates.

Q: Do you have a group home for children with disabilities? 
A: Much like our adult services, the residential based program provides structured support for children with developmental disabilities in small home settings. Services are based on the strengths and needs of the child. 

The residential program works closely with local school districts, parents and other professionals to ensure the children continue to thrive. We attempt to pair children living in the same household that have similar or complementary service needs. Typically, there are no more than 3 children living in one home. These services are available to people 17 years or younger with developmental disabilities.

Q: Is Systems Unlimited hiring? 
A: Yes! We’re hiring for part-time and full-time positions in Iowa City and Cedar Rapids. We also have positions open in other cities. Visit our Careers page to see current openings. 

Q: After submitting an application, when will I hear back about my application? 
A: You can expect to hear from our team within the same week you apply, if not sooner. 

Q: How does the interview process work? 
A: Once your application is submitted, you’ll be contacted via your preferred contact method. The process involves an interview, background checks, employment offer, and onboarding. This process depends on each applicant’s situation, but our goal is to move applicants through the process as quickly as possible. 

Q: What’s your starting wage?
A: Wages are dependent on an applicant’s experience, education, and placement. Our starting wage is currently $14 an hour for entry-level direct support professionals. 

Q: Do you hire people under the age of 18? 
A: Unfortunately, not at this time. 

Q: Do you offer volunteer opportunities?
A: Yes! To learn more about current needs, visit our Volunteer page. 

Q: Do I need a driver’s license to apply? 
A: While we prefer drivers with a license and having a good driving record is a requirement, we do also consider nondrivers. 

Q: Do you require job applicants to pass a background check? 
A: Yes—we are required to perform criminal background checks on all applicants. Having a background doesn’t eliminate applicants from consideration from employment. 

Q: Are there career growth opportunities at Systems Unlimited? 
A: Yes! We believe in promoting from within. For example, most of our middle managers (coordinators) started with us as direct support professionals. Several have become directors, including our CEO, who started at Systems Unlimited as a supervisor. 

Q: What part-time benefits are offered? 
A: Systems Unlimited is proud to be among the few employers that offer time off for all staff. Currently SUI has a personal paid time-off program that rewards part-time staff with personal time they can use however they want. 

Staff who work more than 30 hours a week are eligible for our highly discounted health benefits. Learn more about our benefits on our Careers page. 

Q: Does Systems Unlimited offer internships? 
A: Yes! We offer internships in several departments including accounting, human resources, IT, and Supported Community Living (SCL). Visit our Internships page to learn more about the application process.