Unity on Park celebrates inclusive living
On June 18, community members, local leaders and advocates gathered for an afternoon of celebration and connection at the much-anticipated open house celebration of Unity on Park, an inclusive housing development for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD).
Hosted by the Douglas County Housing Partnership in collaboration with Wellspring Community, the event marked a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to provide affordable and inclusive housing options for the I/DD community.
“Unity on Park is more than just housing,” said Wellspring Executive Director Nicole DeVries. “It’s a place where individuals of all abilities can live independently in their own apartments with the support of others.”
In 2022, the Board of Douglas County Commissioners used American Rescue Plan Act funding to purchase the former La Quinta hotel in Castle Rock and later transferred the building’s ownership to Wellspring Housing. The Board then allocated an additional $500,000 grant from the Developmental Disabilities Mill Levy, which voters approved in 2001. The one-mill property tax is dedicated to services for persons with developmental disabilities and can only be used for that purpose.
Located at 884 Park Street, Unity on Park’s 42 apartment unit renovation took into consideration accessibility and affordability while providing a space to foster independence and meaningful connections among residents. For those adults with I/DD who are living independently at Unity on Park, Wellspring provides onsite staff for residential services and access to support 24/7.
Open house attendees enjoyed light refreshments and had the opportunity to tour the space, meet the tenants, and learn about the collaborative efforts that brought the project to life. Howdy Homemade Ice Cream––a local ice cream shop that supports and employs members of the I/DD community––was onsite serving up delicious treats (see E Guide insert center-spread spotlight for more information).
To learn more about Unity on Park, visit wearewellspring.org/unity-on-park/.
Article and photos by Hollen Wheeler
