A "Home Grown Community" in Washtenaw County, Michigan

This is a note from Kerry Kafafian, about a new organization that intends to build a Home Grown Community (HGC) in Washtenaw County. 

Home Grown Community (HGC) has accomplished a lot over the last few months. The organization has:

• Incorporated in the State of Michigan as a Nonprofit Corporation.
• Named a Board of Directors.
• Visited other housing communities including Benjamin's Hope and St. Louis Center and will visit Bitter Sweet Farms this summer
• Finished a Business plan with a construction and operating budget 
• Applied to the IRS for 501(c) 3 tax exempt status  
• Built strong connections with several IDD groups and service providers and law makers
• The Web site will go live soon 

Home Grown Community (HGC) is inspired by Camphill and Innisfree Villages, as a voluntary community with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. HCG is dedicated to providing a Lifesharing home and learning environment in an atmosphere of beauty warmth, and respectfulness. All community members are valued, and all are encouraged to explore and contribute to a meaningful and challenging life.

Our location will be on the outskirts of a town in Washtenaw County, MI. Roughly 100 acres will hold a farm, Community Center, Craft House, 6-10 homes with about 10 bedrooms each (4 for Residents and 6 for Coworkers) and there will be a cafe/coffee shop along the main road.

For a great example of an over 30 year old lifesharing community see Innisfree Village. 

Here are some good Videos to view and share with others: 

Benjamin's Hope in Holland, Michigan

Innisfree Village in Crozet, Virginia

Camphill Village, New York