Lotus Village is a registered 501(c)3 with the mission to develop a reproducible residential community where adults with autism and developmental disabilities are empowered to live independently, achieve their fullest potential and enjoy healthy, happy and productive lives. The overarching mission is supported by four pillars:

COMMUNITY

EDUCATION & SUPPORT

VOCATION

REPRODUCIBILITY

Why the Lotus as an emblem?

The lotus, or water lily, is rooted in mud. Its stems rise through murky water and emerge as a glorious blossom. For those living with disabilities, the future is often uncertain and even dark. However, given a nurturing environment, they can grow and thrive and bloom into their full potential.

It is our goal to provide that environment.

For many people with Autism Spectrum Disorder and/or Cognitive and Developmental Disabilities, independent living is a dream that requires a network of supports to become reality. Studies have shown that the best way to provide the necessary environment for success is through the construction of intentional communities designed to meet the unique challenges of its residents.

The intentional community is not a new concept. There are incredible examples all around us. You can see them in senior living communities where neighborhood layouts, amenities and planned activities are designed to help people connect with one another and maintain health and vigor as they age. You can see them on college campuses where dormitories and common spaces are designed to encourage students to engage with one another to advance their academic, social and professional development.

The application of this concept to support those with disabilities is not new either. There are many instances both here in Northeast Ohio and around the world. Some, like First Place AZ, are situated in an urban environment close to transportation and many resources. Others, like Bittersweet Farms, offer a rural lifestyle that is more remote and tranquil. What successful communities all have in common, is that they provide more than just a place to live. They are deliberately designed to ensure that residents can connect with others, engage in meaningful work, and access the resources they need to thrive.

Most of the residential communities for those with disabilities are one-off projects spearheaded by families in order to carve out a place for their loved ones. These families invest years of time and talent and financial support to bring these places to fruition. The work they have done is incredible! Unfortunately, the need far exceeds available homes. Not only that, but the cost of living in these places often demands a lot of financial support from families.

As we see it, there are three big problems that need to be addressed to meet the needs of high functioning adults with disabilities.

• More units in intentional communities need to be built to accommodate those who are currently living at home or scraping by with supports cobbled together by families and other care givers.

• Those units need to be affordable and lifetime guaranteed

• The model needs to be reproducible so that resources and workflows can make building a new community more efficient and cost effective no matter where it is needed

This is not a simple or straightforward endeavor. It will require buy-in and support from a wide range of allies. It will require input from self-advocates and families and professionals and corporations and agencies and government bodies. If this plea has reached you and resonated, please contact us and see how you can get involved today!