Our vision is to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive independent living community for adults with autism and related special needs.
The Crisis
It Takes a Village
Many parents of adults with autism and related intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD) are aging and increasingly concerned about where their disabled adult children will live. Unfortunately, Arizona’s current housing options are often either financially out of reach or lack the individualized support, choice, and independence many families are seeking.
Key challenges include:
- Limited affordable independent living options
- Lack of individualized support and resident choice
- Unsafe or unsuitable housing alternatives
- Aging caregivers with no long-term housing plan for their loved ones
- Roughly 40,000 individuals with autism/IDD in the Greater Phoenix area at risk of losing both their residence and primary caregiver as family support systems age or decline
The Solution
Oak Tree Ranch
Autism Life and Living’s Oak Tree Ranch Independent Living Community is set to meet a tremendous need for an underserved population. As the first of its kind, this project marks a groundbreaking effort to create a specialized housing solution for adults with autism and related needs while addressing the shortcomings present in other housing alternatives.
Aerial view of proposed site plan on 3-4 acres of land. Design is subject to change.
Recognizing the critical need for long-term housing solutions for adults with autism and related intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD), the organization has embarked on the development of a 31-unit community designed to support independence, safety, and inclusion.
The community will offer a unique blend of:
- Specialized housing
- Community inclusivity
- Safety-focused features
- Environmental sustainability
- Affordability
- Programs that promote independence
Emphasizing inclusivity, the community will house both neurodiverse and neurotypical individuals, fostering a cooperative spirit within a shared living environment.
Interested in Learning More?
If you or a loved one is interested in being a resident of ALL’s future community, volunteering, or supporting Oak Tree Ranch, please join our interest list to stay updated.