A local grassroots organization is working to bring a long-needed housing community for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to The Villages area, offering families peace of mind and individuals a place to call home.

My Special Place, a nonprofit founded in 2018, is leading efforts to develop a residential community designed specifically for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The project aims to provide safe, supportive housing while allowing residents to live with dignity and independence within the community.

Organizers say the need is urgent.

More than 2,500 families in the area currently have an adult child with developmental disabilities living at home with aging parents. Many of those parents are now facing health challenges, mobility issues or financial concerns as they grow older, leaving them increasingly worried about what will happen to their children in the future.

In many cases, the nearest housing facilities capable of providing appropriate care are 45 minutes to an hour and a half away from The Villages.

“My Special Place was created because families here are running out of time,” organizers say. “Many parents have cared for their children for 40, 50 or even 60 years. They deserve the peace of mind of knowing their loved one will continue to have support when they can no longer provide that care.”

Plans for 44 residences

The proposed community will be located at 1475 El Camino Real in The Villages, near Spanish Springs Town Square and across from UF Health Spanish Plaines Hospital.

The property includes two buildings that will provide 44 residential units designed for adults with a range of developmental disabilities.

The residences will feature:

• 24/7 supervision and care
• Dining facilities with dietary services
• Medical and behavioral care management
• Structured day programs and recreational activities
• Smart security and safety technology
• Transportation support and employment opportunities

The community will also be golf-cart accessible and located near shopping, entertainment and recreational amenities, allowing residents to remain integrated with the lifestyle of The Villages.

Housing for varying levels of independence

The project will include two types of residences designed to meet different care needs.

A two-story building with 31 units will serve higher-functioning individuals who are capable of living more independently with supervision and support services. Each unit will include a private bedroom and bathroom, and residents will have access to shared living and dining areas.

A one-story building with 13 units will provide a higher level of care for residents who require daily assistance with everyday activities.

Both facilities are expected to be licensed as Assisted Living Facilities (ALF), allowing residents to receive the level of care they need while also enabling them to age in place.

Experienced provider selected

My Special Place has partnered with Sunrise Community, an experienced service provider that operates more than 100 residences in seven states and supports more than 1,000 individuals with developmental disabilities.

Sunrise Group will own and manage the residences, providing staff and care services for residents.

Fundraising underway

The total project cost is approximately $7million. In their partnership with Sunrise Community, My Special Place is contributing $1 million toward the $5.7 million purchase price, and $700,000 toward due diligence and renovations to the two-story building. These improvements will ensure the property meets the quality standards expected in The Villages and are completed before residents move in.

My Special Place has already raised $1.3 million of the funds needed.

Organizers say they still need about $700,000 to complete renovations and to establish a benevolent fund that will continue to support housing for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities..

If fundraising goals are met, the 13-unit residence is expected to open by mid-summer, while the larger building is projected to open later in the year following renovations.

A place for families to find peace of mind

For the families behind My Special Place, the project represents more than just housing.

It represents a future where adults with developmental disabilities can live safely and independently while remaining close to the community they know.

“Our goal is to provide a home where individuals with disabilities can live fulfilling lives,” organizers say. “And for parents and caregivers, it means knowing their loved one will always have a safe place and caring support.”

Residents must be 19 years or older and have a qualifying diagnosis such as Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, spina bifida or other intellectual and developmental disabilities recognized by the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities.

Community members interested in supporting the project or learning more can visit myspecialplacethevillages.com.