Driving through rural Texas, I didn’t know what to expect from a “farmstead.” There are mixed opinions in the autism world about whether farmsteads are isolating and segregating; or if they give access to a lifestyle otherwise not available to…
Access to affordable and supportive housing is becoming increasingly challenging, and funding for waiver supports and housing vouchers is not meeting the demand. It is concerning that professional, non-state resident advocates are writing letters to Medicaid authorities in Arizona and…
Denny Roger’s daughter, Emily, was at a dead-end. Her family modified their home so she could have her own space, but her frequent meltdowns expressed her dissatisfaction and frustration. She moved into a home in the community with a roommate,…
As part of a nationwide movement to create local housing and employment solutions, the mother of a young man on the autism spectrum started Erik’s Ranch & Retreats. In April 2013, the Minnesota retreat opened its doors, and a second location,…
Pam’s mother promised that Pam would be able to stay in her family home and continue her existing lifestyle even when her mother was no longer around. Upon her mother's death, Pam was fortunate to have siblings that were prepared…
We were on the road again to visit and better understand two residential options in beautiful, autumnal Virginia: The Faison Centers of Excellence Compassionate Community and Innisfree Village. Both residential models are mission-oriented communities, or intentional communities, where people with…