Unity on Park provides the key to independence
Wellspring Community is a 501(c)3 nonprofit founded to meet the needs of adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities – or STARS because they are the stars of the Wellspring story. Today, more than 100 STARS from five different counties participate in Wellspring’s day program, which focuses on supporting the STARS as they develop social, emotional, intellectual, and job-related skills.
Do you remember getting the keys to your first apartment or dorm room? That feeling of independence and self-reliance is empowering. As Douglas County celebrated Developmental Disabilities Month in March, our neighbors with intellectual and developmental disabilities moved one step closer to that feeling.
During a regular business meeting, the Board of Douglas County Commissioners gave Wellspring Community the keys to a property that will be transformed into independent living for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). The Board used American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to purchase the former La Quinta hotel in Castle Rock last fall with the intention of transferring ownership to Wellspring.
The property, located at 884 Park Street in Castle Rock, is adjacent to Wellspring’s main facility. In recognition of the unique partnership between Douglas County and Wellspring, the facility will be named Unity on Park.
Wellspring’s renovations will result in an inclusive or unified facility with 42 apartment units for both adults with I/DD and adults who are non-disabled. For those adults with I/DD who are living independently at Unity on Park, Wellspring will also provide onsite staff for oversight and support 24/7.
According to Wellspring Executive Director Nicole Devries, “We are now in the process of waiting for approvals for re-zoning and permitting. Once we get the green light, we are hoping to start remodeling in June. The remodel will take approximately one year to complete, and we hope to begin moving residents in the Summer of 2024.”
At this time there is not a waitlist, but emails of interest may be directed to housing@wearewellspring.org.
Information and photo provided by Douglas County
