Across the U.S., people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) face a persistent and often overlooked housing crisis. While national conversations about affordability continue, they rarely address the specific, lifelong challenges that individuals with IDD—and their families—must navigate just to secure safe, stable, and supportive housing. This
For years my wife and I dedicated our lives to raising both our daughters, but our older one has special needs. We love her deeply, and ensuring her safety, happiness, and well-being was always a top priority. But, as any caregiver knows, the daily responsibilities, the constant vigilance, and the
For people with disabilities, independence isn’t just about where you live—it’s about how you live. Too often, residential communities that serve people with disabilities take a "one-size-fits-all" approach to care. Services are typically structured to accommodate those with the most significant needs, which, while well-intended,
Raising a child with special needs is a journey that often extends well into adulthood. As children with special needs transition into adulthood, the responsibilities of their parents evolve, especially when it comes to ensuring their continued independence, well-being, and access to necessary services. For many parents, this shift can
When it comes to selecting housing for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), the word “permanence” is more than just a buzzword. It’s an essential pillar of stability, security, and independence. For families and nonprofit organizations working with individuals with disabilities, the importance of permanent housing cannot
My daughter Emma has some special needs. So, when she tried out for her middle-school track team I was wary. Would they all adjust for my fragile daughter? Here are some things I learned: 1. Give her a real chance At her first meet, after all the other heats were
When it comes to housing for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), we often focus on the basics: affordability, accessibility, and safety. While these are crucial elements, there's another factor that deserves just as much attention: inclusivity. It's not enough to simply provide a
A friend recently asked me how our Phoenix project, Luna Azul, compares to existing housing options for adults with special needs. I told her that, although many housing solutions exist for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, none offer the same advantages as our project. This is why I was