IndependentWorks

IndependentWorks (www.independentworks.org) is a non-profit formed in 2019 by parents and friends of adults with autism. We are planning a community for "Supported Living", consisting of adults with moderate needs for outside support to thrive while living independently. Living arrangements will vary and consist of households of 1-3 housemates in a community of 20-30 individuals. There will be spaces for shared activities and the design will be universal, allowing persons of varying physical ability to live fully. We anticipate that support will come from families, social support services chosen by the individual, and the community-at-large, in that we plan to incorporate space for senior citizens who will play a mutually supportive role with benefits for all. IndependentWorks will provide additional enrichment services, helping to organize community events and activities.

We plan to accomplish this through private donations to obtain appropriate land and funds for initial development.  The homes will be grouped together as a "pocket neighborhood" with shared common areas.  The vision includes a model of long-term rentals at below market rates with development of a sustainable operating budget.  Future options might include micro-enterprises to provide employment allowing opportunities for enhanced lifelong living and learning opportunities.

We hope that our first development in Wilmington, North Carolina will assist in providing a model for similar efforts occurring in our state and around the country.  

COMMUNITY EVENTS

On July 3rd, thanks to a sponsorship from Emerge Ortho, we were able to provide up to 50 tickets and concession vouchers to our wonderful families. In addition, the Wilmington Sharks are allowing us to host a 50/50 raffle during the game!  We had this same opportunity last year, and all had a wonderful time, while also raising money.   We are so grateful to our sponsor and to the Wilmington Sharks for helping us to make a memorable night for many of our families and future residents.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        On July 6th, thanks to a grant from Broadway for a Better World, we received 20 free tickets to attend a local performance of The Blue Man Group.  IndependentWorks is committed to providing social and educational opportunities for our prospective residents.

Thanks to a generous arrangement with The Pointe Theatre in Wilmington, we host a monthly movie night at 4:30 PM on the second Wednesday of each month.  For a small fee, each of our prospective residents sees a current movie release and also enjoys a popcorn and drink.  These outings help to enhance social and communicative skills, while also being a lot of fun!

IndependentWorks collaborates with another local non-profit for a twice per week Walking Club, which helps promote health and social interaction.  We are also planning trivia and game nights beginning this year. Our Facebook page is the best way to follow all these activities.