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Sunflower Hill envisions a community in Pleasanton for individuals with special needs, offering lifelong residency options and quality activities akin to senior living. This intentional community will be embraced by the larger region, providing a sustainable model for special needs living. With an emphasis on individual choice and quality of life, Sunflower Hill aims to address the housing gap for those with developmental delays and create a vibrant, purposeful environment with diverse activities and housing options. Join us in shaping a future where individuals with special needs can flourish and thrive in a supportive community setting. Visit www.sunflowerhill.org for more information.
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Our VisionEast Pleasanton Specific PlanTask Force Meeting November 7, 2013 Sunflower Hill Tax ID# 80-0897595
About us… Parents of children with autism and other developmental delays Community leaders interested in the vision Varied expertise/background We are local families concerned about the long-term housing options, lifestyle and activities available to individuals with special needs
Vision/Mission Mission To develop a community for individuals with special needs that provides for life-long residency options and quality activities/programming – akin to ‘senior living.’ Vision Sunflower Hill will become a model for special needs living in the Bay Area – ensuring quality of life, individual choice, and an ‘intentional community’ that’s embraced by the larger neighborhood/city/region.
The wave is coming… One in 50 children –new autism statistic 500,000 will become adults in next decade Nationwide – 80,000 are on waiting lists for group home/assisted living opportunities 80 percent of adults 18+ still live with parents Local options exist – but more needed 759 Regional Center clients (ages 14+) in Dublin, Livermore, Pleasanton, and San Ramon
Housing is not keeping pace… Living with parents doesn’t address care after death Institutions are closing (Agnew/Sonoma) – and were really only for severely disabled Group Homes are hard to obtain and cash strapped Few options exist for those with mild/moderate developmental delays who want active lives Parents want assurance, options nearby and a life with purpose…an intentional community
Our vision of an intentional community… Community space plus individual living Onsite activities available (gardening, arts, exercise, micro businesses, social activities) Work options Freedom of choice - residents can choose onsite or offsite activities. Interaction with greater community, families A sense of ‘belonging’
An idea for Pleasanton… • 6 acres, housing approx 50 individuals in small-scale buildings spread across site • A ‘community’ that offers a full, rewarding life
Employment: Olive & sunflower Harvesting Housing: 1-, 2-, & 4-bedroom apartments Physical Development: Outdoor recreation & skill-building Community Gardening Community Center: Computer lab, cooking/ communal kitchen, art & music, community living room
Example Sweetwater Spectrum in Sonoma
Example Beverly Farm in Illinois
Example Bittersweet Farms in Ohio
A growing trend… 79 Nationwide 12 in California
Benefits Innovative approach to crisis and need for affordable housing Akin to Senior Living – parents spend most of their free time ‘scheduling’ activities for their child. Positive impact on typical community/region – interactions with volunteers, school groups Sustainable business model – economic/employment opportunities – providing independence
We believe this can be a new model for special needs living Our name, Sunflower Hill, was specifically chosen for its meaning. Sunflowers originated in the Americas in 1000 B.C. They are considered gifts of radiant warmth and the happiest of flowers. Their meanings include loyalty and longevity, nourishment and vibrancy. This is the vision we have for the Sunflower Hill community – a place where all individuals can thrive. www.sunflowerhill.org