Communities to Know: Arizona
Each month we report on intentional communities for adults with IDD around the U.S. This month, we are highlighting projects operating or planned in Arizona.
EXISTING
First Place AZ (Phoenix). First Place–Phoenix offers supportive apartment housing for adults with autism and/or other intellectual/developmental disabilities. First Place–Phoenix also offers a two-year residential transition program allowing individuals 18 years and older to develop life skills in a classroom, the greater community and their homes. Residents of the First Place–Phoenix Apartments enjoy a suite of supports, amenities and community life activities, empowering them to thrive as they chart their individual paths to more independent living. It is a private pay setting.
Treasure House (Glendale). Treasure House is a residence helping 29 young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) find a supportive community and a personalized plan for achieving independence, inclusion, and purpose as they transition into adulthood. It is a private pay setting.
Luna Azul (North Phoenix). Luna Azul is a unique residential neighborhood designed specifically for people with life challenges. Having an adult daughter with a rare disability inspired developer, Mark Roth, to create Luna Azul. He envisions it as a place where residents can live permanently, while enjoying a sense of security, and making lasting friendships. It is 30 for-sale homes for 78 residents on 4.5 acres in a gated setting. At present, all homes have been sold.
Rainbow Acres (Camp Verde). Rainbow Acres is a Christian community with heart that empowers persons with developmental disabilities to live to their fullest potential with dignity and purpose. Founded in 1974, Rainbow Acres serves adults of all ages with a wide range of developmental disabilities that commonly include Autism, Down Syndrome, Asperger Syndrome and Developmental Delay from various causes. The 50-acre ranch-style campus is located in the scenic Verde Valley of Arizona. It is a private pay setting.
Echoing Hope Ranch (Hereford). Echoing Hope Ranch is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located near the San Pedro River in Southeastern Arizona. Serving individuals in Cochise and Pima counties, Echoing Hope Ranch exists as a supportive resource for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to build new skills, gain independence, and self-advocate within their community.
Rusty’s Morningstar Ranch (Cornville). Rusty's Morningstar Ranch is almost ten acres of serene beauty where residents have meaningful work, build strong, caring relationships and are given the opportunity to get in touch with nature and themselves. At RMR, everyone eats family styles meals, sharing in their turn to say the prayer before meals. Volunteers provide church services for those ranchers that would find it difficult to attend church in the community. Ranchers also have the opportunity to go swimming, ride horses, collect eggs from the chickens, and go hiking in the beautiful Verde Valley. Away from the ranch, they go to the movies, various state parks, go out to eat and a variety of other activities in their community that they choose to participate.
29 Palms Apartments (Phoenix). The 29 Palms multigenerational apartment complex was co-developed by FSL and First Place AZ with the goal of creating opportunities for seniors and adults with autism and/or intellectual/developmental disabilities to experience the benefits of complementary strengths, skills, friendship and mutual respect. This intentional community is also serving as a residential property for adults with autism who have graduated from the First Place Transition Academy and seniors (55+) who choose to live in this garden apartment community. It is a private pay setting.
Spectrum Courtyard Apartments (Phoenix). Foundation for Senior Living (FSL) is a registered 501(c)(3) organization with a mission to provide home and community-based services and develop energy-efficient, affordable housing to promote health, independence and dignity for all. Spectrum Courtyard Apartments (previously called 29 Palms II) consists of 25 one-and two-bedroom apartments. FSL partnered with First Place Transition Academy, an accomplished service provider working with young adults on the autism spectrum. It is a private pay setting.
Teva Community (Prescott). Teva Community is a small nonprofit creating safe, supported living for nonspeaking autistic people on 35 acres of beautiful national forest, just five miles from downtown Prescott, Arizona. In addition to housing, Teva Community will run entrepreneurial and day programs for residents and local autistic adults, and training programs for direct support providers. We will hold events in the retreat section of our property which contains a large lodge with a commercial kitchen, 12 bunkhouses, and 2 bathhouses. It is a Medicaid waiver-eligible setting, as well as private pay.
Arizona MENTOR (multiple locations). In our Community Living Residences, also known as group homes, two or more adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities are carefully matched based on their needs, preferences and compatibility to live in our licensed, community-based homes. Arizona MENTOR goes beyond the “traditional” set of services offered in group home settings. We provide intensive services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as complex medical and behavioral challenges and focus on creating meaningful connections between staff and residents.
Copa Health (Mesa). Community Living Services help people who have disabilities to become as self-sufficient as possible within a home environment. Services focus on home and community integration, engagement in activities of daily living, lifespan issues, individual needs, strengths, abilities and preferences. Small, three to five person group home settings provide an alternative living situation for individuals served by Copa Health.
Valley Life (Phoenix). Provides a safe and healthy environment for the Members we support. VALLEYLIFE owns and operates 25 group homes located in communities throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Y.E.S. The Arc (Cottonwood). Y.E.S. The Arc currently has four residential homes that are the current residences for thirteen of our members. Located within a one block radius of each other the homes are able to interact not only with the community, but with each other. Each home hosts events throughout the year for all of the residents to participate in.
PLANNED / IN DEVELOPMENT
Nikki’s Next Step (Phoenix). One Step Beyond, Inc. has been providing dynamic programs to individuals who have intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) for over 20 years. Nikki’s Next Step is our eagerly anticipated expansion into housing. At Nikki’s Next Step, we envision more than just a home. It’s an inclusive community where relationships flourish to combat isolation and promote socialization. Our goal is to break barriers, create opportunities, and ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, has the chance to live a life of purpose and fulfillment.
Did we miss an intentional community or residential setting for adults with IDD that we should add to this? Please let us know by emailing Mark Olson at molson@ltoventures.org and provide a link or other information.