Accessible Housing Matters

How can the design of a home transform the daily life of a child with disabilities and have a lasting impact throughout their lifetime? How does this transformation affect their family and caregivers?   This episode features Marcel Hernandez Development Director of Tucker's House, a nonprofit in Tennessee that customizes homes for disabled children. They focus on creating accessible spaces that cater to each child's needs, considering their future growth and independence. Marcel emphasizes the importance of a holistic and therapy-informed approach, not only making physical adjustments but also alleviating emotional stress for caregivers, acknowledging their critical yet often unnoticed role. He also discusses the "House to Home" video series, which illustrates the profound impact of these home transformations on families.    Tune in to hear firsthand how compassionate home designs and builds are breaking barriers and bringing joy to families in need.      [00:01 - 04:29] Opening Segment Tucker's House is a Tennessee-based nonprofit that specializes in home modifications for families with children who have disabilities The organization, active since 2009, estimates its impact on approximately 1200 to 1500 individuals, working annually with about 100 to 120 individuals Tucker's House is fully funded through private donations, including grants from foundations, corporate partners, and individual community champions, covering all costs for their core AIM program The AIM program involves a comprehensive process with a program manager, occupational and physical therapists, architects, and construction partners, to create personalized, practical modifications in homes     [04:30 - 08:11] Building for a Lifetime: A Lasting Solution for Families and Caregivers Tucker's House focuses on long-term, sustainable home modifications for children with disabilities, considering their growth and evolving needs to provide lifetime solutions The organization's approach includes not just physical modifications but also aims to provide emotional relief and support for caregivers, recognizing their crucial role Their high client satisfaction and attention to detail in modifications underscore their commitment to delivering quality solutions without the need for major re-installations   [08:12 - 13:40] Inspiring Stories Behind Accessible Homes Tucker's House not only modifies homes but also assists with ordering and installing durable medical equipment (DME), ensuring a perfect fit for each family's unique needs Their therapy-informed approach goes beyond typical remodeling, prioritizing the family's voice and choice throughout the process for personalized solutions The "House to Home" series offers a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges faced by families with disabilities and how accessible modifications alleviate these struggles This series also highlights the crucial role of caregivers and the physical and emotional toll of caregiving, underscoring the importance of ergonomic home design Tucker's House collaborates with financial partners who are also featured in the series and play a significant role in supporting and facilitating their initiatives   [13:41 - 20:48] Navigating the Demand for Accessibility  The organization is primarily referral-based, receiving clients through healthcare providers and gaining increased exposure through media and their House to Home series Their service criteria focus mainly on children but are flexible, considering each family's unique situation, including financial constraints and healthcare needs Marcel also talks about similar organizations that serve people of all ages    [20:49 - 28:46] Closing Segment Marcel is deeply committed to setting a strong psychological foundation for his children, emphasizing the importance of a stable, nurturing home environment His nonprofit work, including founding Be About Change, reflects his dedication to elevating young people's trajectories, paralleling his role in Tucker's House to support children physically and psychologically Marcel finds inspiration in the resilience and positivity of those facing mental and physical challenges, which is evident in the impactful stories shared in the House to Home series     Want to connect with Marcel? Reach out directly through marcel.hernandez@tuckershouse.org or contact 615 953 9572. Visit https://tuckershouse.org/ to learn more about their work and watch Episode 1 of House to Home: Zola's House Transformation on YouTube.   Key Quotes:   “We really focus on providing that lifetime solution. While some are looking for kind of a day-to-day impact, we really focus on going perhaps just an inch wide, but a mile deep in terms of the impact that we make with each household.” - Marcel Hernandez   “We do everything to preserve the family's voice and choice through the entire process so that it is really their plan and we're facilitating the realization of that plan.” - Marcel Hernandez   “I have a belief that the individuals that struggle mentally, physically, or both are, in my estimation, what I would just say closer to God, closer to divinity” - Marcel Hernandez Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters.   To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website or contact me on Facebook and Twitter.   Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.   Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing and getting conversations going.   I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show.   Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.  

What if we could bridge the gap between accessible housing for the aging population and job creation for marginalized communities?   Join us for an inspiring conversation with Kat Kabat, Director of Construction Operations at Hope Renovations, a non-profit organization transforming lives through accessible home renovations and construction training for women and genderqueer individuals. Discover how Hope Renovations is breaking down barriers, building safe living spaces, and creating a more inclusive world, one home and one career at a time.   Learn how to support initiatives that address accessibility and job creation together for an equitable future. Tune in and take action!     [00:01 - 03:24] Opening Segment Hope Renovations is a non-profit organization and its dual mission is to train women and genderqueer individuals in skilled construction trades and provide aging in place renovations and repairs to homeowners They aim to make simple home modifications to meet the needs of an aging population, considering the strong desire of 95% of Americans to stay in their home They acknowledge the societal failure to adequately prepare for the challenges of an aging population and are committed to making a positive impact in this area   [03:25 - 12:33] Designing Safe, Accessible, and Affordable Homes Kat emphasizes the need to make homes suitable for people as they get older and have different physical needs They have Certified Aging in Place Specialists who are trained to assess homes and make them safer for long-term living Their focus is on tub to shower conversions, as the bathroom is one of the most dangerous areas for individuals with mobility issues, and using innovative technologies to create solutions The organization's sliding scale model allows them to provide affordable renovations for individuals with limited expendable income They prioritize inclusivity and provide a sense of security for homeowners, especially for single women who may feel more comfortable with their crews   [12:34 - 16:02] Offering Opportunities for Folks of All Abilities Kat talks about how they are providing employment opportunities for underemployed individuals Participants in their training program are paid, enabling them to support their families while fully committing to their education After the program, there are also endless career possibilities because of the  big demand in the industry  Regardless of abilities or differences, they recognize the potential of individuals and provide a supportive environment where they can thrive [16:03 - 21:23] The Importance of Collaboration in Strengthening Communities The organization is funded primarily through grants, both from the government and private foundations The key to their success has been building connections and finding supportive individuals and organizations in the community Kat also shares what's next for Hope Renovations   [21:24 - 27:05] Closing Segment Kat discusses the importance of equal access to opportunities in the construction field They feel honored to be able to create a supportive community that brings joy and fulfillment to both workers and homeowners     Want to connect with Kat? Check out Hope Renovations on Instagram and Facebook. Visit their website at hoperenovations.org. Key Quotes:   “What a privilege it is for us to be able to be some of the first folks to help them navigate, like one of the most important and scary parts, which is making a home more accessible and the financial burden of that sometimes.” - Kat Kabat   “It shouldn't take having a handy dad for me to have found my way here. There should be other pathways.” - Kat Kabat   “The first step is probably taking the temperature of your community and finding those folks who are going to help you make it happen.” - Kat Kabat Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters.   To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website or contact me on Facebook and Twitter.   Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.   Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing and getting conversations going.   I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show.   Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.  

Why is early and effective planning crucial for long-term home safety and independence?   In this episode, Stephen interviews Janet Engel - an occupational therapist, certified aging-in-place specialist, and an executive certificate in home modification holder - to share her expertise and help people understand the importance of making their living space more accessible and safer for them to navigate. She explains how universal design features can help make life easier and stresses the importance of automation systems for those who don't do well with technology. Stephen and Janet discuss the challenges of aging in place and how to overcome them while emphasizing the importance of proper planning so people can live safely and independently at home for longer.   Tune in for helpful tips on creating a safe space for aging in place!     [00:01 - 09:53] Opening Segment • Less than 5% of the housing stock in the US has features that would make it universally designed • How Janet helps people live safely in their homes and teaches about this • Simple modifications to increase safety and independence The importance of automation systems   [09:54 - 19:04] How Technology Can Help Women Age in Place Safely and Comfortably • Women are more at risk of being victims of criminal acts, so security in the home is important • How you can use Alexa to tie into home features like lighting and security systems • Arthritis is the number one disability that Americans have Impacting mobility and making everyday tasks difficult   [19:05 - 28:06] Debunking Misconceptions & Understanding the Benefits of Aging in Place • Universal design features can make a home more functional • Better design for primary bathrooms should include counter space and storage to reduce fall risk • Accessible design is not ugly or institutional-looking   [28:07 - 34:23] Closing Segment • You can beautifully design wheelchair ramps with safety features • What you need to create the best modifications for people with disabilities/progressive conditions/traumatic events     Want to connect with Janet? Follow her on LinkedIn. Visit Home Designs for Life to encompass all stages of life and abilities!     Key Quotes:     “There needs to be a happy medium where people with unlimited funds and people with limited funds can change their environment, not just their bathroom.” - Janet Engel   “Ramps are one of the accessible features that is most often done incorrectly.” - Janet Engel       Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters,   To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website or contact me on Facebook and Twitter.   Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.   Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing and getting conversations going.   I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show.   Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Why is it crucial to make homes more accessible for everyone? Today, Aaron Murphy, the founder of ForeverHOME, discusses how to create a safe and comfortable space for aging in place. Learn what universal design is and why it is vital to creating accessible homes for everyone. Hear how Aaron has been helping people age in place through his program and how to help those with limited financial resources access quality care. Discover what it's like to be part of the sandwich generation and how Aaron's own experience drives him to help others access the best care possible.    Tune in for an inspiring conversation about creating homes that work for everyone!   Aaron is a passionate design professional, consultant, and advocate for Aging-In-Place in your own community. He is a licensed architect, a “Certified Aging In Place Specialist” through NAHB, and an engaging and entertaining public speaker.      [00:01 - 09:05] Opening Segment • Aaron's background as a licensed architect with experience in aging in place • Aaron introduces ForeverHOME How to create environments where people can live in their homes for their whole lives • How to disrupt the spec building industry and make existing housing stock more accessible   [09:06 - 17:39] Advocating for Aging in Place • How people are working together to help people stay in their homes 90% of people prefer to age in place • Aging in place does not have to cost more if planned ahead The discussion around aging has become more mainstream   [17:40 - 26:28] Understanding the Invisible Housing Crisis • How architectural coaching can help business owners and families prepare for aging in place A universal design that works better for everyone • The importance of discussing solutions for people with different types of accessibility concerns • ForeverHOME coaching program to gain access to utilizing the stock plans   [26:29 - 30:16] Closing Segment • Anything is solvable with a checkbook, but it's worth considering if it's worth it • The cost of moving is 20% of the value of your home • Aaron's insights on the invisible housing crisis coming on     Want to connect with Aaron? Follow him on LinkedIn. Head to ForeverHOME to live where you love and thrive where you live!     Key Quote:   “Housing can be the hub of your happiness, but it also needs to be empowering for every phase of life.” - Aaron Murphy     Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters,   To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website or contact me on Facebook and Twitter.   Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.   Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing and getting conversations going.   I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show.   Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

How do you envision a future where every community prioritizes accessibility and inclusivity in their housing options?   Join us as we explore the inspiring story of Michael Donnelly and Garrett Mayersohn, two people working together to provide accessible housing for people with disabilities and seniors. They discuss their plan to market barrier-free housing as well as the Certified Aging in Place (CAP), which helps people understand how to design for accessibility in the home. They also touch on solutions that can help disabled people live more independently and have better access to resources in their community.   Tune in to explore the importance of building communities that are accessible for everyone!   As the Builder and Retrofitter for Donnelly Construction and Barrier Free Contractors, Mike Donnelly focuses on creating Universal Design/Barrier Free/Aging-in-Place homes, specifically to provide accessibility and independence for persons with disabilities, the aging, and veterans in need.   Garrett Mayersohn, born with cerebral palsy, brings valuable first-hand experience of living with a disability. He is passionate about advocating for and helping Barrier Free Contractors build and retrofit as many barrier-free houses as possible.   [00:01 - 08:24] Opening Segment • How Mika and Garrett are changing lives through accessible housing Working in the housing space to help people with disabilities and seniors have a better life • How Mike found out nobody was building accessible housing or retrofitting existing homes He changed people's lives by building accessible, barrier-free homes   [08:25 - 16:25] Barrier-Free Housing and Help People Live Better Lives • Mike is teaching Garrett his methods and helping him market barrier-free housing Garrett is trying to persuade contractors that it is the right thing to do • Pushback from contractors is that they don't want to spend money • Mike has developed a nonprofit, Liberty Access Foundation, to help people in need   [16:26 - 24:03] Making Homes Accessible for Everyone • The need for policy change and education in aging communities • Realizing the importance of money and how it can change one's life • Struggles faced by people with disabilities in finding housing due to laws in the Fair Housing Act • The expensive nature of retrofitting existing homes   [24:04 - 30:35] Closing Segment • The need for education to help society look at housing differently • Thinking about aging when building housing and communities • Making sure communities are accessible as individual houses   Connect with Mike on YouTube Channel for Barrier-Free Contractors!   Connect with Garrett on LinkedIn!   Key Quotes:   “Everybody should know that they should build a house for a possible problem down the road, and yet it looks just the same, and it looks beautiful.” - Michael Donnelly   “When I see a person's life changed, your life changes instantly.” - Michael Donnelly   “Find a way to help if possible, or just to spread the word. Whatever you can do to help a person have a better life pays its.” - Michael Donnelly   “Accessibility is essential, viable, and profit can be made from it. There it is a good thing for people to be barrier-free and universally designed, and it's just good for everyone.” - Garrett Mayersohn     Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters,   To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter.   Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.   Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing and getting conversations going.   I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show.   Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.  

How can you make housing more inclusive and accommodating for people with disabilities? This episode explores Ari Aufgang's journey into creating supportive and inclusionary housing, his challenges, and the lessons he has learned along the way. He covers topics such as accessibility features for people with disabilities, how to manage public perception of inclusionary housing, and how to choose economical yet attractive elements when designing a building.    Join us as we dive into understanding the needs of various populations and creating community within their designs!   Ariel joined his firm at 18 while still a student at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. As a close, personal consultant to Aufgang clients, Ariel provides a full range of services, including land use consultation, peer review, design services, planning, and construction administration.   [00:01 - 08:17] Opening Segment • Designing inclusive and supportive housing in New York City A design firm focused on architectural design, in-house engineering, and sustainability • 5-10% of units are adapted before opening for wheelchair accessibility • Preference is given to disabled people for accessible units   [08:18 - 15:26] Exploring the Needs of Different Populations • How working with nonprofit developers has educated for-profit developers Almost half of the clients are not-for-profit developers, bringing people with special needs • Learning from both market-rate rental and supportive/low-income rental • Unique design considerations for luxury housing in New York City   [15:27 - 22:23] Overcoming Challenges in Inclusionary Housing • How Ari learned to choose economical yet functional and attractive elements for low-income housing • The challenges of inclusionary housing in NYC Cultural issues and public perception • How diverse community within the building serves everybody   [22:24 - 27:40] Understanding the Needs of Residents • Ari's experience in residential high-rise construction • The importance of understanding the needs of potential residents • Ari's mother encouraged him to get a title, and he became an architect. Why housing has always been important to Ari   [27:41 - 31:40] Closing Segment • Big firms are now getting into housing, which was not seen before • Interacting with potential residents is essential to understand their needs Key Quotes:   “Anytime we work with a particular population, one of the greatest parts of the process is learning the needs because it's never what you think it might be." - Ariel Aufgang   "You never know what people need. We have guidelines you could follow, which are great, but they are just the average. You never know what the average is." - Ariel Aufgang Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters,   To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter.   Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.   Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing and getting conversations going.   I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show.   Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Are you looking for a game-changer in healthcare and housing support? In this episode, Jacey Cooper – the California State Medicaid Director – talks about the changes being made to Medicaid in California to provide a broader range of services related to housing and accessibility. From providing community supports such as medically supportive housing and home modifications to recuperative care and rental assistance, she explains how these services are designed to help those in need remain safely housed. Hear how the CalAim initiative has successfully changed the trajectory of people's lives and how it can be cost-effective for states to advocate for similar initiatives. Tune in now! Ms. Cooper is responsible for the overall leadership of Benefits, Eligibility, Delivery Systems, Financing, Behavioral Health, Quality, Population Health, and Legislative and Governmental Affairs. As State Medicaid Director, Ms. Cooper represents California's Medicaid program (Medi-Cal) with federal partners at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. [00:01 - 07:39] Opening Segment • How Medicaid in California is changing regarding services being offered to consumers Housing, medically supportive services, home modifications, and social needs • How to support individuals experiencing homelessness or whose homes are not meeting their needs Recuperative care, short-term post-hospitalization housing, and enhanced care management [07:40 - 14:42] How Enhanced Care Management Can Help Those Experiencing Homelessness • Housing bundle, sustaining services, and recuperative care • The short-term post-hospitalization housing • Programs in the community or home for life skills, budgeting, cooking, cleaning, interpersonal relationships • Coordination across several people is needed for enhanced care coordination [14:43 - 21:56] California's Enhanced Care Coordination Program • Asking managed care plans to pay for something they know little about has been a monumental task • The role of counties, public hospital systems, safety net providers, and community-based organizations • Biggest challenge so far is the admin burden of different authorization forms and processes How is the team recognizing this quickly and working to streamline it? [21:57 - 29:53] Closing Segment • California's CalAim program aims to improve healthcare access and lower costs • The goal is to provide full-blown benefits, not just in lieu of services • Why Medicaid has a role to play in providing non-traditional supports Head to California Health Care Foundation and get the health care you need! Key Quotes: “We want people to be able to live in the community, live in their home, or an assisted living environment that allows them to receive the medical services that they need.” - Jacey Cooper “We're trying to build a true continuum of care and services and supports for someone experiencing homelessness to be able to heal and improve their health outcomes ultimately.” - Jacey Cooper Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Remembering Bill Pelter Last month, our community lost one of our most beloved members. Bill Pelter was a life-long advocate for the civil rights of people with disabilities in the San Francisco Bay Area. He was wise, passionate, and tireless in his advocacy. He was also my friend. In recent years, he frequently spoke about how an aging society meant that many family members are “aging out” of their ability to care for loved ones who rely on their support and whom they have supported their whole lives. I had the immense privilege of interviewing Bill for this podcast in 2021. It was a great discussion, and I wanted to share it with you again. Please enjoy the conversation, and please consider Bill's wise words… [00:01 - 05:49] Opening Segment Bill shares how he became a disability advocate The Story of the Two Bills Something magical at the Ability Now Bay Area Why are we living in a fantastic moment? [05:50 - 14:54] Advances in Assistive Technology  Four significant numbers that matter How technology is leveling the playing field for all How the senior community is affecting technology development The eye-blink control and eye-gaze readers [14:55 - 29:29] Our Aging Society Why the general population has low expectations of people with disabilities How an aging society is considered a transformational change in society  Why a master plan for accessible housing is needed in the Ability Now Bay area  [29:30 - 34:01] Closing Segment The State's plan to provide care services All Hands on Deck: How You Can Help in Aging Initiatives Resources Mentioned: AARP Report: Home Alone Revisited Key Quotes: “If you desire to learn, we will work with you. We're going to help you; we're going to be part of your learning process to accomplish what you want to accomplish in your life.” - Bill Pelter “The biggest issue that people with disabilities face with the general population is low expectations.” - Bill Pelter Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

How does providing affordable, independent housing through Housing Unlimited improve the quality of life for adults in mental health recovery? In this episode, our guest is Abe Schuchman, CEO of Housing Unlimited, a Maryland-based nonprofit that provides housing services to individuals with mental health challenges. Abe breaks down their unique shared housing model and focuses on the importance of natural support in shared living environments. He touches on the benefits of portable vouchers and stresses why focusing on people's strengths rather than weaknesses is vital. Join us in this insightful conversation on the importance of accessible housing and the impact of shared living models in providing support and community. Abe Schuchman has served as Housing Unlimited's Executive Director (now CEO) (HUI) since Housing Unlimited began operations in December 1994. HUI purchased its first home in 1995 and is now a supported living housing nonprofit organization that provides permanent, safe, affordable, and independent housing to more than 230 low-income adults in mental health recovery. Mr. Schuchman, working closely with Housing Unlimited's strong and active Board of Directors and staff, has coordinated all of Housing Unlimited's affordable housing acquisition and management operations to date.  [00:01 - 07:49] Opening Segment • Abe introduces Housing Unlimited Providing housing services to individuals with mental health challenges Promoting community integration and independence through a shared housing model • A nonprofit housing model focuses on traditional lease elements [07:50 - 15:51]Collaboration with Support Services for Tenants • How Housing Unlimited collaborates with other nonprofits for support services • How to provide natural support and tenant empowerment for shared living environments • Portable vouchers provide tenants with the opportunity to live independently [15:52 - 23:34] Live Independent Lives • What the tenant empowerment program includes Extra measure property management service and paid tenant internships • Importance of treating everyone as people first and focusing on their strengths • Meaningful representation on the staff of former tenants and leaders in mental health recovery [23:25 - 27:59] Closing Segment • How to create a supportive and empowering living environment Connect with Abe on LinkedIn, or visit Housing Unlimited, empowering people in mental health recovery to live independently!  Key Quotes: "The most important lesson that I learned early on and has been talked to me in different ways is the importance of treating everyone as people first and focusing on their strengths rather than weaknesses." - Abe Schuchman Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

People and families thrive best when they have a place to call home and are fully included in the community. In this episode, Chris Canna dives deep into the challenges faced when providing accessible, safe housing for people with disabilities such as staffing needs and the cost of housing. He touches on CIL's work in Massachusetts & Connecticut and discusses how this is leading the way in providing accessible housing for people with disabilities, and their families and the importance of funding services. Let's dig into it! Chris Canna is the Vice President of Real Estate Development - an integral part of the team responsible for sourcing relevant projects for development and managing the department. He hunts for suitable projects and subsequently oversees development from start to finish. A member of several professional organizations dedicated to urban planning, Chris networks with his contemporaries around the country and applies his connections and expertise in his daily work at CIL. Key Highlights: [00:01 - 06:06] Opening Segment • Chris introduces the Corporation for Independent Living Working with service providers to develop housing for people with disabilities • How to serve people with intellectual and developmental disabilities [06:07 - 12:03] A Look at Inclusive Housing and Technology • Why housing is a major problem in the metro Boston area • The importance of focusing on the community resident model • How State laws protect against nimbyism in Connecticut and Massachusetts [12:04 - 17:58] The Corporation for Independent Living  • Pursuing a national approach to housing development • Variation from state to state in terms of land, use controls, and Medicaid administration • How to leverage accessible housing with provider organizations and state officials [17:59 - 27:00] Closing Segment • Why Massachusetts is a role model for providing accessible housing • The challenges faced by the industry • How remote support services are being used to mitigate staffing problems Want to connect with Chris? Head to CIL, the connection of community! Resources Mentioned: Community Matters: CIL Celebrates 40 Years Key Quotes: "Housing is such a huge part of living a fulfilling, healthy, and happy life." - Chris Canna Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Are you building and remodeling to better meet the needs of everyone at every life stage? In this episode, Richard Duncan shares insights into how the R. L. Mace Universal Design Institute works to improve the built environment for those with disabilities. He touches on the efforts to promote universal design in the housing sector as well as potential funders who specialize in forward-thinking mechanisms to make this project viable. Let's dive into how home technology is changing the way people interact with their homes! Richard Duncan is the Executive Director of the RL Mace Universal Design Institute. Mr. Duncan has spent over 35 years in the field of architectural and product accessibility and universal design in residential, public, and transportation environments. He has extensive experience in the design, costs, materials, and products in residential and non-residential settings. His work includes the issues of affordable housing and home and repair financing and transportation accessibility as well as community design for constituencies that include people with disabilities and older households. Key Highlights: [00:01 - 06:31] Opening Segment Richard introduces the R. L Mace Universal Design Institute Improving the way the built environment works and supports people in society Louis Tenenbaum's work on using 401ks to help remodel homes for accessibility [06:32 - 12:09] Tap Resources to Renovate Your Home and Age Independently How renovating a home can be challenging and costly Low-income individuals may be able to access resources to help with renovations PACE programs are available in many states to help seniors stay in their homes [12:10 - 17:40] Promoting Universal Design Universal design is not yet embraced by the marketplace There are occasional attempts to create a national registry of experts in universal design Challenges in promoting universal design Lack of advertising budgets and resistance to the reality of aging [17:41 - 23:31] Exploring the Regulatory Environment for Universal Housing Builders of age-targeted/restricted housing finally got the message to design more accommodatingly Government money usually comes with special design considerations How the Fair Housing Act sets a minimum standard for accessibility in private-sector projects [23:32 - 30:25] Closing Segment The impact of technology's universal design How Smart Home technology is changing the way people interact with their home Want to connect with Richard? Head to R.L. Mace Universal Design Institute & Better Living Design. Key Quotes: "We work really in the area of built environment and products that work better for the wide range of the human condition for everybody in society." - Richard Duncan "It's not going to work if the universal housing you're trying to promote that we know works for everybody looks so radically different from all the other houses in the neighborhood." - Richard Duncan Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Happy New Year! This is the last in my series of “Best of” episodes I wanted to share with you a 2nd time during this holiday season. This past September, I met three powerful women who took on the recalcitrant bureaucrats in New York State and are changing their worlds and the future for their kids. It is an incredible story, and I'm delighted to share it with you again. I hope you have enjoyed these replays over the past few weeks. Next week, I'll be back with a brand new interview! Smokey Hollow was conceived by a parent who wanted to expand residential choices for her adult son who needs 24/7 support. In New York state, the group home model has years-long wait lists, and the individual and family have little choice in where and with whom the individual can live. That leaves a gaping hole in services for a vulnerable population with few viable options available to them. Created by Trish Albanese in collaboration with her son and other adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD), Smokey Hollow will be a shared living community that meets the needs and wants of its residents.  Prospective Smokey Hollow residents are the “inclusion generation”. They have grown up going to school and participating in activities with their typical peers. Now they want the same rights as their peers when it comes to their residential needs. Located in the Syracuse, NY area, Smokey Hollow will provide the flexibility to share staff with other residents when appropriate, and to lead lives of dignity and choice, encompassing friends, activities, work, and volunteer goals. Key Highlights: [00:01 - 08:29] Opening Segment • Trish introduces Smokey Hollow An organization focused on developing more accessible housing in New York The organization has been working to change state laws to allow for more accessible housing • How Smokey Hollow has developed a model of accessible housing that others can replicate [08:30 - 16:28] Smokey Hollow: A Community for People with Disabilities • Where the idea of creating Smokey Hollow comes from • The importance of having legislation in place to make the community permanent • Advocates should focus on their dream and what they believe is best for their loved ones [16:29 - 24:19] Moms Moving Mountains • Why Smokey Hollow feels more respected than it did with the prior administration • When Trish, Liz, and Marilyn believe the Smokey Hollow community will be opened They disclose where their sons are living now [24:20 - 31:36] Closing Segment • The New York state needs to take its accountability to those with disabilities further to fund accessible housing solutions • There is a need for philanthropic and foundation support for accessible housing initiatives Want to connect with Smokey Hollow? Visit his website, and follow them on Facebook. Key Quotes: "We go to the core things that are important to our loved ones which is safety." - Trish Albanese "No one gets to defying what setting is appropriate for people, people get to define it for themselves." - Trish Albanese Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Happy Holidays! This is the 2nd of three of my most popular interviews from 2022, that I am sharing with you this holiday season.    Back in March, I had the pleasure of interviewing Rosemarie Rossetti about her experience building her dream home…and developing a network of resources and accessible design standards in the process.  It was a wonderful conversation, and I hope you enjoy hearing our discussion…especially if you missed it when it first came out.  Please enjoy…and stay tuned for new guests and interviews next month! Rosemarie Rossetti, Ph.D. is a powerful, internationally recognized expert on accessible and universal design. She speaks to and consults with design and building professionals who want to design homes and workplaces that are more accessible, safe, and inclusive. She is the President of Rossetti Enterprises Inc. which she founded in 1997.  Rossetti and her husband designed, built, and live in the Universal Design Living Laboratory, the national demonstration home, and garden. This is the highest-rated universal design home in North America earning three national certifications.  Rossetti is the author of the Universal Design Toolkit. As a foremost expert on universal and accessible design, she shares her knowledge and experience through her book, feature articles in national publications, in-person presentations, webinars, radio/TV interviews, and podcasts. Rossetti is an inspiring entrepreneur who is rethinking design and building by spearheading discussions and experiments around re-imagined living and working spaces.  [00:01 - 04:21] Opening Segment The Universal Design Living Laboratory How Rosemarie made this bigger than her own home Rosemarie's Grand Development [04:22 - 13:16] What Makes a Home Accessible Making the Universal Design Living Laboratory a national demonstration home Home accessibility and visibility 32 Months of Construction: The 10-Year Journey of Rosemarie's Dream home [13:17 - 25:04] Dream Home turned National Demonstration Site Rosemarie gives us a quick tour of their house Bringing impact to the disability and development communities Lessons and Changes from Rosemarie  [25:05 - 30:18] Closing Segment Grab your own copy of The Universal Design Toolkit here You can connect with Rosemarie through rosemarie@rosemariespeaks.com, Universal Design Living Laboratory, Rosemarie's TEDx Talk, and Rosemarie's website! Key Quotes: “You do need that team to develop your accessible housing. You can't do it independently.” - Rosemarie Rossetti Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Hi Everyone. Happy Holidays! It has been a wonderful year of great interviews and terrific learning here on the podcast. I thought it would be great to revisit a few of my most popular interviews from 2022.  First up, my most popular show ever: Back in mid-January, I interviewed Don Shirley and Chris Cooley about SafeinHome. SafeinHome has been a “life changer” for Chris, and in this conversation, we learn all about his experience using the service. Enjoy!  SafeinHome President Don Shirley brings more than thirty-five years of innovative healthcare and technology experience to the company and industry.  Don has been instrumental in such endeavors as bringing home-dialysis therapies to patients seeking self-directed lifestyles, to being one of the pioneers in web-based purchasing for the healthcare industry.  With a focus on safety, independence, and self-determination, Don has overseen all development and marketing activity for the company, expanding SafeinHome's service offering to eleven states and growing!  Chris Cooley is legally blind and deaf and lives in Portsmouth, Ohio. He is an expert on service dogs and service dog awareness. Chris is also passionate about remote support technologies and the role they play in helping people with disabilities to live more independent lives. He is on the board of the Ohio tech ambassadors program.  His role is to help spread awareness about technology and how it can help us live independently.  His dog Larkin is a 4year old golden retriever. Key Highlights: [00:01 - 07:31] Opening Segment Don shares about SafeinHome Remote support for people with disabilities What are direct support and services? The human part of SafeinHome [07:31 - 21:40] A Story of Better Independent Living Chris shares his experience with SafeinHome SafeinHome Services Affordable, one person at a time, and available in other states The goal is to help the individual become more independent and self-sufficient [21:41 - 29:01] Closing Segment This is not a surveillance or an alarm company Providing service and support to one person at a time Check out SafeinHome, and their YouTube Channel to learn more about how remote supports work!  Key Quotes: “We are here truly to provide service and support. And that service and support is defined person by person.” - Don Shirley “Not everyone is the same, and not everyone needs the same service. You get to choose.” - Chris Cooley Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Are you looking to live safely and independently at home? In this episode, Maria Zamora delves into PACE programs and how it provides access to all-inclusive care for the elderly. She breaks down how PACE helps participants retain their independence, live in their own homes, and decrease their reliance on institutional care. Maria points out the challenges these programs face and explains why they offer flexibility to address individual needs. Let's dig into it! Maria Zamora became CEO of the Center for Elders' Independence in March 2021, bringing over 24 years of experience in the healthcare and insurance industries. She has held executive management positions in for-profit and not-for-profit organizations and has an extensive background in PACE (Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly). Key Highlights: [00:01 - 08:05] Opening Segment Introducing The Center for Elders Independence (CEI) A comprehensive holistic approach to caring for vulnerable seniors Participants in PACE receive medical care, rehabilitation services, socialization, and home care The PACE model and how it helps seniors with many medical needs [08:06 - 15:59] Helping Seniors to “Age in Place” PACE organizations serve a majority of seniors who are dual medical and Medicare eligible How marketing and awareness of the PACE model are challenging The stringent requirements from CMS around how the program can be marketed Why participants are generally satisfied with PACE services   [16:00 - 23:41] PACE Helps Participants Maintain Independence A team-based care model that helps participants stay in their homes and avoid institutionalization Challenges that PACE programs face Regulations that can be a barrier to enrollment The workforce shortages experienced by healthcare providers [23:42 - 30:22] Closing Segment Why PACE is so important People blossom as they no longer feel isolated and alone Want to connect with Maria? Head to Center for Elders Independence, healthcare, and services that keep you living at home! Resources Mentioned: National PACE Association  California PACE Association Proposed Federal Legislation to improve PACE Programs    Key Quotes: “It's not just about providing someone in the home, it's a beautiful combination of what works best for people.” - Maria Zamora Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Have you ever wondered what you need to create inclusive, innovative & integrated accessible housing?  In this episode, Paul Linet introduces 3i HoME and talks about their upcoming affordable and accessible housing project. He stresses how there's a dearth of accessible housing that meets the needs of people with mobility impairments and other disabilities. Paul digs deep into the challenges that are involved in creating accessible housing, and how you can help make this issue a priority. Let's dive in! Following decades of practice as an international trade attorney, in 2019 Paul Linet founded 3i Housing of Maine ("3i HoME") a 501c3 non-profit at the intersection of health care and stable affordable supportive housing for people with disabilities. 3i HoME is developing a universally designed, totally accessible apartment complex centered around the 3i's:  Independent living through Innovative technology in an Integrated home and community-based setting with person-centered, coordinated services.   Key Highlights: [00:01 - 04:45] Opening Segment How Paul ended up creating 3i Housing of Maine Building affordable and accessible housing in Maine Independent living through Innovative technology in an Integrated home and community Work with the local community members to ensure a project is sensitive to their needs and interests [04:46 - 09:51] Innovation, Independence, and Integration  The development of a community for people with physical disabilities How 3i is working with a nationwide affordable housing organization to make it accessible One of the principles of the development is that it is no age restriction and that people can age in place Individual units will have technology solutions to address specific needs [09:52 - 14:58] Creating a New Paradigm in Accessible Housing How Paul installed a  lift system to make it easier for her wife to move around the apartment What inclusive design means Integrating a service coordination function so that people have more options and less burden How the community is accessible to social environments  [14:59 - 20:07] Building a Community for All The need for accessible and affordable housing, and how this is a worldwide issue Are there enough accessible housing projects going on for people with disabilities? There is a dearth of accessible housing that will meet the needs of people with disabilities [20:08 - 27:52] Closing Segment How accessible housing can help to break down barriers between different communities It is important to help people with disabilities live in the community and with their families Want to connect with Paul? Head to 3i Home, independent, innovative & integrated supportive housing! Key Quotes: "Our effort is now to really weave together some of the social determinants of health so that we can demonstrate that a better healthcare outcome will occur for our residents who are folks with physical disabilities." - Paul Linet "Technology is one of the ways that can be braided together to enable people to exercise their right to live under circumstances that they choose" - Paul Linet Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Are you looking for ways to create an accessible space to live in? In this episode, Julie Sawchuk digs into how to identify any potential accessibility issues in a building, what can be done to make the building more accessible, and how much money should be budgeted for accessibility. She also describes better practices that would be more comfortable and safe for people with disabilities. Tune in and discover how to create an accessible home for you, your family, and your future! Julie Sawchuk is a best-selling author, accessibility strategist, and educator at Sawchuk Accessible Solutions. After sustaining a spinal cord injury in 2015, Julie turned from teaching high school science to educating everyone that accessibility matters. Julie has completed accessibility ratings for commercial and institutional buildings all across Ontario Canada, but more importantly, she has helped people see that achieving a meaningful level of accessibility benefits everyone.  Key Highlights: [00:01 - 06:47] Opening Segment • Julie Sawchuck shares her background and work Her journey as an accessibility strategist She experienced first-hand the challenges of living with a disability • How to help people build accessible homes [06:48 - 13:15] Giving People Independence • How thinking about the future can save money b Implementing universal design and accessibility • Julie's insights about ramps How to improve access for people with disabilities [13:16 - 20:02] Accessibility Equals Energy • Why accessibility equals energy Check out Building Better Bathrooms • Working with a professional to help you implement these strategies in your everyday life • Realizing how important it is to have accessible housing [20:03 - 26:47] Tips for Making Spaces More Accessible • Julie shares her experiences as a person with a lived experience of accessibility issues How that has helped her become an expert in the field • The importance of reaching out to your customers to get feedback on how accessible their spaces are People with accessibility concerns should reach out to experts in the field to make informed decisions • Make sure to connect with other advocates for accessible spaces [26:48 - 29:12] Closing Segment • How to improve energy efficiency in a bathroom Want to connect with Julie? Follow her on Instagram. Visit her website to move forward with accessibility! Key Quotes: "People with disabilities are problem solvers by nature, we have to be in order to basically live day to day." - Julie Sawchuk "Accessibility adds up to give people independence, dignity, and safety, and all of those things together equal energy." - Julie Sawchuk Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Maintaining yourself as a care partner in the best possible way to be physically, mentally, and emotionally strong is what allows you to provide the best care and support for this person who is relying on you for their well-being. In this episode, Elissa Lewin teaches how to care for yourself while caring for others, and how this will allow you both to maintain a level of independence. She breaks down the benefits of attending one of Nancy's House's retreats or online programs, as well as how to make them accessible to care providers who may not have the time or resources to attend in person. Let's dive in! Elissa Lewin is a licensed psychologist, licensed marriage and family therapist, and serial caregiver. She founded Nancy's House in 2006 to fill a need for service to family caregivers. Caregivers are the invisible backbone of our healthcare system. Yet, historically, there have been few services available to support them, despite the constant cry of “Caregivers need to take care of themselves.” Key Highlights: [00:01 - 08:09] Opening Segment • Elissa introduces what Nancy's House does and its mission A nonprofit that provides support to family caregivers in the form of retreats, online programs, and workshops • How caregivers in the mid-Atlantic region can find relief from the stresses of care Some attendees may not be able to attend events, but there are shorter, accessible programs available [08:10 - 16:18] Nancy's House • The difference between Nancy's House and respite • Why the cost of Nancy's events is high • The educational workshops that are included Paying attention to body signals, maintaining independence, and recognizing when a loved one needs care [16:19 - 24:29] The Backbone of Accessibility • It's important for caregivers to care of themselves so they can take care of people with disabilities • Elissa stresses why the biggest challenge for caregivers is funding Caregivers are invisible, and finding recognition and support is hard • How Elissa came up with the name Nancy's House [24:30 - 29:56] Closing Segment • When the National Caregiving Conference will be Don't miss it, register here. Want to connect with Elissa? Head to her website, caring for caregivers!  Key Quotes: "Nancy's house breaks the isolation and exhaustion that can come with taking care of somebody who is chronically ill or disabled." - Elissa Lewin "There is the gratification that comes with taking care of somebody else, and that is absolutely true and undeniable. And for a lot of people that gratification is what keeps them going." - Elissa Lewin "Care provision is the backbone of accessibility." - Elissa Lewin Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Are you ready to buy your first home? In this episode, Jeremy Johansen shares his experience buying a home in 2010. He found homes that were based on price, location, and basic facilities. He also looked for houses that were accessible for him in terms of community and location. Jeremy's experience illustrates the importance of accessibility in home buying. Let's dive in! Jeremy Johansen purchased his home in San Leandro California in 2010. He has lived there happily, enjoying his beautiful garden, caring for his chickens, and appreciating the accessibility of his neighborhood, for the last 12 years. Key Highlights: [00:01 - 08:39] Opening Segment • Jeremy shares his journey of buying his first home back in 2010 How he narrowed down his search to areas based on criteria such as price, location, and accessibility • Why Jeremy's experience looking for homes was new and different [08:40 - 16:53] How to Improve Your Home • Why Jeremy believes there's a huge difference between living in San Leandro and other places • It can be challenging to find a home that is both affordable and within your desired location • The process of buying a home can be challenging, especially if you are not familiar with the process • Jeremy shares the renovations he has done since he bought the house [16:54 - 25:31] Buying Your First House • How Jeremy remodeled the basement and yard • If you're thinking about buying a home, start saving money and make a list of what you want in a house. It's important to work closely with your realtor and loan advisor [25:32 - 28:46] Closing Segment • How to afford a house in the Bay Area • Why community ties are important when deciding whether or not to buy a home Key Quotes: "Accessible for me means being in a place downtown, that I extended to enjoy the benefit of the house, with the yard, but also the convenience of walking distance from BART. (Bay Area's Rapid Transit System)." - Jeremy Johansen "One of the biggest factors of owning a house is just playing ownership; you can work up bit by bit to that ability to own the house, you'll find that it actually is more doable than you might expect." - Jeremy Johansen Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

It's time to change how we view accessible short-term (vacation) rental properties. In this episode, Lorraine Woodward digs into the mission of Becoming RentABLE, what they are doing to shift the way the world thinks about accessibility, and how everyone can help make this a global change. She breaks down the five focus areas and the 36 filters they offer in order to help people with disabilities customize their own needs and find the best property for them and their families. Let's dive in! Lorraine Woodward is a life-long advocate for people with disabilities. Lorraine is an entrepreneur and business owner, recognized for her work in marketing/communications for local television, non-profit hospitals, for-profit healthcare systems, and national non-profits. Becoming RentABLE is her latest endeavor, designed to create, educate and promote accessible rental properties for people with mobility, vision, hearing, intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), and individuals on the autism spectrum of autism.  Key Highlights: [00:01 - 07:21] Opening Segment Lorraine introduces Becoming RentABLE Helping people to find accommodations when they travel The five focus areas Looking to expand what it means and what is defined as an accessible short-term rental property [07:22 - 14:27] Looking for Accessible Properties Having more accessible properties than Airbnb and VRBO Becoming RentABLE is looking to have 20,000 visitors per day Lorraine breaks the filters they have for autism How the certification process work and its cost [14:28 - 21:09] Accessible Properties: Becoming a Reality with Becoming Rentable How Lorraine looks to expand its web portal to include larger platforms and remain independent It's not about the money, it's about change  How Lorraine and her team ended up doing a TV show [21:10 - 28:48] Closing Segment Things people found on the Becoming RentABLE that they were unable to find elsewhere Want to connect with Lorraine? Head to Becoming RentABLE, and find an accessible short-term rental! Key Quotes: "We want people with disabilities to be able to travel and have a positive experience and find what they need." - Lorraine Woodward "Working together, getting the word out. That's how we're gonna grow and make a difference." - Lorraine Woodward Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

In June of 2022, I was honored to be a guest on the podcast, “The ABCs of Disability Planning', hosted by Eric Jorgensen.  He had invited me on his show to learn more about my podcast and my work. The conversation turned out to be amazing, and we chatted about some of the key themes that have emerged in my podcast over the past couple of years. So I thought I would share some of the interview I did with Eric right here. I hope you enjoy the discussion! Key Highlights: [00:01 - 06:52] Opening Segment • Why Stephen decided to start a podcast about housing and accessibility • Accessible housing in the event of a natural disaster or non-natural disaster • There is a lot of discrepancy between states when it comes to accessible housing Some don't do anything, while others are 10-20 years behind. [06:53 - 13:50] What's Going on in the Other States • What's happening in other states with regards to accessible housing Support systems for people with developmental disabilities, and the political disparity between different disability communities • Stephen's outlook on the fragmentation of disability communities [13:51 - 20:38] Accessibility Specialist Shares Tips for Real Estate Professionals • Why the private sector will be the key to solving the housing crisis • There is a role for government in universal design, but it needs to be approached with a mindset change • How the lack of accessibility specialists in the real estate industry limits the marketability of those who are interested in working with people with disabilities [20:39 - 30:00] Closing Segment • Agents need to think about housing differently, and realtors can help to create this change • The need for private home developers to be more accessible, and how education can help to make this happen Key Quotes: "There isn't a one size fits all housing solution, the more broadly we can think about a variety of ways that we can make housing safe, accessible, affordable, and allow people to live independently, the better." - Stephen Beard "Technology is somewhat an equalizer." - Stephen Beard To learn more about Eric's work helping out people with disabilities and their families, check out his website True North Disability Planning: https://truenorthdisabilityplanning.com/ To hear the full podcast interview I recorded with Eric, which included a lot more good stuff, including my thoughts about how to find a good real estate agent, here's a link to that: https://anchor.fm/abcs-disability-planning/episodes/Accessible-Housing-Matters-with-Stephen-Beard-e1mho4c Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Smokey Hollow was conceived by a parent who wanted to expand residential choices for her adult son who needs 24/7 support. In New York state, the group home model has years-long wait lists, and the individual and family have little choice in where and with whom the individual can live. That leaves a gaping hole in services for a vulnerable population with few viable options available to them. Created by Trish Albanese in collaboration with her son and other adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD), Smokey Hollow will be a shared living community that meets the needs and wants of its residents.  Prospective Smokey Hollow residents are the “inclusion generation”. They have grown up going to school and participating in activities with their typical peers. Now they want the same rights as their peers when it comes to their residential needs. Located in the Syracuse, NY area, Smokey Hollow will provide the flexibility to share staff with other residents when appropriate, and to lead lives of dignity and choice, encompassing friends, activities, work, and volunteer goals. Key Highlights: [00:01 - 08:29] Opening Segment Trish introduces Smokey Hollow An organization focused on developing more accessible housing in New York The organization has been working to change state laws to allow for more accessible housing How Smokey Hollow has developed a model of accessible housing that others can replicate [08:30 - 16:28] Smokey Hollow: A Community for People with Disabilities Where the idea of creating Smokey Hollow comes from The importance of having legislation in place to make the community permanent Advocates should focus on their dream and what they believe is best for their loved ones [16:29 - 24:19] Moms Moving Mountains Why Smokey Hollow feels more respected than it did with the prior administration When Trish, Liz, and Marilyn believe the Smokey Hollow community will be opened They disclose where their sons are living now [24:20 - 30:59] Closing Segment The New York state needs to take its accountability to those with disabilities further to fund accessible housing solutions There is a need for philanthropic and foundation support for accessible housing initiatives Want to connect with Smokey Hollow? Visit his website, and follow them on Facebook. Key Quotes: "We go to the core things that are important to our loved ones which is safety." - Trish Albanese "No one gets to defying what setting is appropriate for people, people get to define it for themselves." - Trish Albanese Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Are you seeking out solutions that allow your personal independence as much as possible? In this episode, the president of Lift & Transfer Specialists, Craig Coogan digs into their company's work in accessible housing, the different types of Surehands products, and how they are tailored specifically for people with disabilities. Craig discusses some of the challenges he's faced in his career, and what he likes the most about the accessibility industry. Let's dig into it! Craig Coogan has been dedicated to improving the lives of all kinds of people with all sorts of physical challenges for more than 25 years. His company, Lift & Transfer Specialists, has provided thousands of solutions that have permitted personal independence as much as possible. And we have made sure that caregivers or staff have a safer means of lifting and transferring their loved ones or patients without hurting themselves. Key Highlights: [00:01 - 07:55] Opening Segment Craig Coogan introduces Lift & Transfer Specialists Track systems and other accessible equipment Craig's experience and knowledge with products designed to help people with disabilities stay in their homes and have better accessibility [07:56 - 14:48] How to Accessible Home Modifications with a Track System Why Craig asks clients about their day-to-day living situation Choosing the right lift system for their needs How clients who use a track system can save money and get discounts on in-home support services. The grants and loans available from state governments, as well as private sources [14:49 - 21:42] Promoting Accessible Living and Aging in Place How to properly install a ceiling track system The importance of reasonable accommodations for renters The most challenging installations Lift & Transfer has worked on so far Extreme Makeover and Las Vegas [21:43 - 31:28] Closing Segment Changes Craig has seen in the accessible housing industry Proper licensing and quality assurance are important Craig has a passion for helping people, and this motivates him to work hard every day Want to connect with Craig? Head to Lift&Transfer Specialists or reach him at 877-542-5438. Make sure to visit his YouTube Channel. Key Quotes: "We treat everybody as an individual and really pay a lot of attention to not just what's happening right now. But what you're expected to be doing in say, 5,10,20 years from now, and give me a solution to that particular type of issue." - Craig Coogan Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Build homes that people can afford. In this episode, Tom digs into the Bergen County United Way mission and how they focus on inclusion and strive to be equitable in all they do. He also shares the challenges developers face when building supportive housing and how affordable housing is a positive term needed to solve the housing affordability crisis. Tune in and dive into an accessible housing success story in New Jersey! Tom serves on the Board of the NJ 2-1-1 Partnership, driving the implementation of the 2-1-1 helpline on behalf of New Jersey's local United Ways and New Jersey State Government. He also serves on the Supportive Housing Association of New Jersey Board and the SUEZ North America Foundation Board. Key Highlights: [00:01 - 07:05] Opening Segment How Tom has helped 600 individuals with disabilities find homes The president of Bergen County United Way What the United way's approach was Increase the housing stock, disrupt conventional thinking around affordable housing, and take risks with their capital [07:06 - 13:47] Affordable Housing that Looks Good The development of affordable housing for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities The consumer-based model where service providers build and manage the housing More inclusive housing approaches as some people living in the community are not necessarily affiliated with a disability group [13:48 - 20:37] Supportive Housing Projects How blending different types of housing has been successful in creating a community for residents Why smart home technology has been a significant opportunity for service providers Service providers are facing cost caps and strong discussions with housing mortgage finance agencies How to underwrite affordable housing projects [20:38 - 27:05] NJ Agency Secures Affordable Housing Projects New Jersey is successful in building affordable and accessible housing The constitutional requirement and council on affordable housing What municipalities have done to inject performance requirements into affordable housing development [27:06 - 30:40] Closing Segment How Tom's  work is motivated by the mandate in the New Jersey Constitution The importance of community engagement and outreach to local officials to get projects started. Want to connect with Tom? Head to Bergen United Way or email him at toronto@bergenunitedway.org  Key Quotes: “Look at how supportive housing is funded and built in your state or your county.” - Tom Toronto Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Are you looking to be a homeowner instead of a renter? In this episode, Stephen talks with Cheryl Engel about her experience purchasing a home in April of 2022. She discloses the importance of location and accessibility when purchasing a home. Cheryl stresses how she was able to find a lender and bring her own income to make the purchase work financially. She also discussed how important it is to manage your money before you go out and buy a home, as well as some advice for people who are thinking about becoming homeowners. Thanks for listening! Cheryl Engel became a first-time homeowner in April 2022.  Her house is in Vallejo, California, a small community just north of San Francisco. Key Highlights: [00:01 - 05:02] Opening Segment An overview of Cheryl Engel's story How she could buy a home in April of 2022 What she likes the most about the location and neighborhood How much money did the house cost? [05:03 - 09:50] A House Bought with Less Than $20,000 Cherly's experience with the process to buy the house How Cherly felt when the house was officially hers The changes that have been done to the house so far [09:51 - 14:33] New Homeowner's Experience The advantages of being a homeowner vs a renter Why Cheryl appreciates her surroundings and home different now The upcoming renovations Cheryl will do to her house [14:34 - 17:24] Closing Segment Advice for people who want to become homeowners Work with a lender to find out what you qualify for Be realistic about your budget Key Quotes:  “Know what you can afford, and work with a lender to find out exactly what you qualified for.” - Cheryl Engel Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

What if it was possible to remove the burden and pain of real estate so providers can focus on helping people live healthy, independent, and fulfilled lives? In this week's episode, the President of Scioto Properties, Matt Mumma discloses how they provide impact real estate solutions to having positive outcomes for people with disabilities. He discusses how he transitioned from being a provider to an accessible housing advocate, and shares his story of how he fell in love with the mission of Scioto and why their model is so important to him. Listen and enjoy! Mr. Mumma is the President of Scioto Properties. In his position, Mr. Mumma leads the development and implementation of Scioto's long and short-term strategic objectives. Mr. Mumma plans and directs all aspects of Scioto's real estate activities, drives business development, maintains awareness of the competitive market landscape, and utilizes his 20-year healthcare background to identify expansion opportunities, monitor industry developments, and find outside-the-box approaches to partnering with healthcare providers and government agencies across the country. Key Highlights: [00:01 - 06:19] Opening Segment Matt introduces Scioto Properties It specializes in accessible housing solutions for individuals with developmental disabilities The company serves both developers and healthcare providers How to expand services to the growing market of community-based accessible housing  [06:20 - 12:04] Quality Housing Available to Individuals with Disabilities How Scioto provides community-based housing for individuals with disabilities It has helped serve over 8,000 individuals in that setting The key to impactful real estate is to continue to serve as many people as possible Matt's outlook on the trend towards inclusive smart homes and technology [12:05 - 18:02] An Accessible Housing Option Scioto's plans for smart homes and technology Why smart homes are the wave of the future and can provide a better service What makes Sciota sets apart from its competitors [18:03 - 23:50] Housing for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities and Mental Health Disorders How Scioto addresses the housing crisis for individuals with disabilities Making housing more affordable while also addressing the state's structural barriers Scioto's company is always trying to work with each state to be the most effective  [23:50 - 29:45] The Ground Running with Developmental Disability Housing How insurance companies are involved and have a vested interest in keeping people out of hospitals The role of  the real estate industry in developing more conducive housing Matt's insights about urban and rural areas when it comes to real estate acquisition [29:46 - 32:56] Closing Segment How Matt fell in love with Scioto's mission and decided to join them Want to connect with Matt? You can email him at mmumma@scioto.com. Head to Scioto Properties, let's make an impact together! Key Quotes: "We want to continue to be impactful in what we what we own and serve as many people as possible in terms of you know the types of real estate." - Matt Mumma "You do have to take a step back and just think about how each state individually works, and what's the best way to structure real estate deals that are productive for the providers, but will also most importantly benefit the individuals that we all collectively serve." - Matt Mumma Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Have you ever wondered how climate change is impacting housing and people with disabilities? In this episode, Alex Ghenis discusses the impacts of climate change on housing for people with disabilities, particularly the challenges of providing a stable and accessible place to live. He stresses the importance of building housing in the right places and how inclusive housing is environmentally friendly. Alex offers advice on researching potential housing options and discloses ways in which the government can improve policies and procedures to ensure that accessible housing is created more sustainably. Let's dig into it! Alex Ghenis is the Deputy Director of Sustain Our Abilities and has been with SOA since Summer 2022. Mr. Ghenis is a nationally recognized expert on the impact of climate change on people with disabilities and has been crucial in raising awareness about climate justice for the disability community. In 2014, Mr. Ghenis started the New Earth Disability initiative at the World Institute on Disability to expand research on, and raise awareness about, climate justice for the disability community. Key Highlights: [00:01 - 07:15] Opening Segment Alex introduces Sustain Our Abilities Focusing on the intersection of climate change and disability The two pillars of climate change that Sustain Our Abilities cares about Mitigation (reducing carbon emissions) and adaptation (getting ready for climate change) Why people with disabilities are more likely to be negatively impacted by the effects of climate change [07:16 - 14:02] The Risks in a Changing Climate The impacts of climate change on housing The increased risk of fires and displacement of homeowners due to coastal flooding The importance of building resilient housing that can withstand changing weather patterns The need for transit-oriented development in high-risk areas [14:03 - 21:12] The Transit Oriented Development Transit-oriented development is a great way to reduce carbon emissions and improve accessibility Why inclusive housing is environmentally friendly It reduces the need for cars and reduces carbon emissions How technology can help make inclusive housing more accessible and desirable [21:13 - 27:54] Disability Advocates Urge National Action to Address Climate Change The impact of climate change on the housing market is a major issue for people with disabilities People with disabilities should be thinking about their health and safety when looking for housing The cost and accessibility There are many ways to make a dent in climate change [27:55 - 29:30] Closing Segment Housing is a key part of reducing climate change and is especially important for people with disabilities Want to connect with Alex? Follow him on LinkedIn. Visit Sustain Our Abilities, expanding climate justice for people with disabilities through research!  Key Quotes: "Building it in the right places um can be a great part of climate mitigation." - Alex Ghenis "it really is more about getting the checklist of what you think is safest, what you can afford, and what will be close to the support networks that you need." - Alex Ghenis Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Are you figuring out how to build a world where people with disabilities are fully included? In this episode, Larysa Kautz, the President & CEO of Melwood, a leading employer, and advocate for people with disabilities headquartered in the DMV discloses how this organization is working to create accessible housing and how it can help individuals with disabilities live independently and achieve gainful employment. Se is hopeful about the challenges ahead, despite vocal opposition from some individuals; Larysa believes that by reaching out to others in the community and sharing her project's details, she can overcome any obstacles. Let's dig into it! Larysa brings nearly 20 years of experience in law, business, advocacy, and nonprofit management to the role, driving practical policy change to expand the field of employment for people with disabilities and create a more inclusive workplace for the future. Kautz has been instrumental in advocating for the abolition of Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act, which allows employers to pay workers with disabilities below minimum wage. Key Highlights: [00:01 - 06:13] Opening Segment • Larysa shares what Melwood is and what they do It offers training and support services to help individuals with disabilities find employment and independence • How Melwood serves people of all types of disabilities, including those with intellectual developmental disabilities [06:14 - 12:08] Affordable Housing for Disabilities • What Melwood is doing to develop affordable housing for people with disabilities in Virginia • Larysa's outlook on Main Street Rockville [12:09 - 17:50] Low-Rise Residential Zoning for Melwood • How Meldwood addresses the need for childcare, affordable housing, and art spaces A general land use plan amendment is needed to study the potential uses of the property A low-rise residential zone could be designated, followed by zoning for a higher building height and other accommodations An application for low-income housing tax credits would need to be submitted to the state   [17:51 - 23:41] Creating a Fully Integrated and Inclusive Space • The plans for a new building that will be specifically designed to be accessible and inclusive for people with disabilities • The importance of community engagement [23:42 - 29:15] Closing Segment • Larysa's experience starting and running a community-owned accessible housing project Want to connect with Larysa? Head to Melwood, dynamic nonprofit providing jobs and opportunities for people with disabilities! Key Quotes: "We're deeply embedded in the community and we're staying. We're gonna continue to do all of the good work that we do now, except it'll be even better, and it'll add more to the community." - Larysa Kautz "The more inclusive environments we can have, the more we'll be breaking down barriers by having people interact with others with disabilities." - Larysa Kautz Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Creating dynamic opportunities through affordable, inclusive housing and community engagement is vital so people of all abilities can live their best lives. In this episode, Jillian Copeland, the founder and Interim Executive Director of Main Street, discusses the residential onboarding class they offer, and how their programs are helping individuals access quality, affordable housing. Their goal is to transform the lives of those who are living with disabilities by providing opportunities for them to be independent and connect with others. Let's build a membership-based community and a movement of inclusion! Jillian's latest and greatest endeavor, Main Street, is a joint initiative with her husband Scott. Main Street is a model and a mindset, the first-of-its-kind inclusive and affordable apartment building and community center serving people of all abilities. Main Street opened its doors to residents in the summer of 2020 and currently provides membership opportunities to over 200 resident and non-resident members. Key Highlights: [00:01 - 07:52] Opening Segment • What moving inclusion forward means • What Main Street does and its mission • Jillian's outlook on the waiting list of people who want to get into Main Street [07:53 - 15:46] The Power of Inclusive Housing to Create Community  • Empower people with self-efficacy and confidence • The Main Street approach BYOI (Bring Your Own Independence) • How Main Street is attracting members and providing services that support independence • Jillian shares a resident's experience who has seen a significant decrease in the number of hours he needs paid supports [15:47 - 23:17] Improve Health & Wellness Outcomes • Main Street provides consulting services to help others build their own versions of Main Street • How many people were kept on the waiting list after it was closed • How Main Street is helping to address the need for affordable, accessible, and inclusive housing [23:18 - 30:17] Closing Segment • Main Street connects to create a fulfilling life for people with disabilities • Be involved and be a part of the solution Want to connect with Jillian? Head to Main Street, and create dynamic opportunities through affordable, inclusive housing and community engagement so people of all abilities can live their best lives! Resources Mentioned: How The Kelsey is Making a Difference in Accessible Housing through its Inclusive Development and Advocacy Model Key Quotes: not just living independently for people with disabilities, it's finding a community of belonging." - Jillian Copeland "We're not transforming a life, we are providing opportunity, which allows possibility in a dignified, respectable way that it doesn't make people feel that they need that they are a charity, that they are less than others.".Jillian Copeland Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Do you also believe that accessible housing is important for socializing and connecting deeply with your community? Our guest today is Bryan Greene, the Vice President of Policy Advocacy at the National Association of REALTORS® where he oversees all legislative and regulatory advocacy on behalf of the association's 1.5 million members. Bryan joined NAR in November 2019 and spent his first year at NAR raising the association's profile in Washington and nationwide on all fair-housing-related policy matters as NAR's first Director of Fair Housing Policy. In this conversation, we discuss the challenges and benefits of living in a community that is accessible to everyone, even those with disabilities. We also discuss why it is important for realtors to be educated on accessible housing issues, and how they can help create inclusive communities. Listen and enjoy! Key Highlights: [00:01 - 06:42] Opening Segment Bryan introduces the National Association of Realtors How NAR advocates for laws and regulations in the interests of the real estate industry, as well as fair housing and consumer rights How to advocate for consumers with disabilities The importance of making sure accessible design is included in state building codes and promoting accessible housing at the community level [06:43 - 13:25] Tax Breaks for Home Renovations to Accessibility What the Fairhaven Program is about How the NAR helps agents learn about the Fair Housing Act NAR believes that accessible design is essential for inclusive communities, and is working to promote energy efficiency and fair housing tax policy together. [13:26 - 20:14] Advocating for Accessible Communities We should be aware of any legislation that may have implications for disability rights How a tax can incentivize an increase in housing supply, and as a result, it has also looked at how disability rights should be included in any such legislation. NAR has also been working with state housing agencies to explore ways that accessible housing can be expanded [20:15 - 28:47] Closing Segment There is a need for stronger enforcement of the disability rights laws and more accessible websites and public places Want to connect with Bryan? Head to National Association of Realtors, empowering realtors to achieve their real estate ambitions!   Resources Mentioned: The Before and After Key Quotes: "There's a lot that can be done at the community level to promote accessible design and accessible features and housing." - Bryan Greene "Fair housing has been an opportunity for us to think about how we want to live, what kind of communities we want to have, and the need to make sure that as we build and plan communities today, that they include everyone." - Bryan Greene Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Good messages, subsidies, and incentives are critical to market development. In this episode, Lewis Tenenbaum, the CEO of Homes Renewed Coalition digs into how the organization is working to make homes more accessible for everyone and how H.R.7676 would allow people to finance modifications to their homes without paying taxes or penalties. He also explains how the process to pass legislation for people with disabilities and older adults can be improved and why financial advisors should be more involved in this area. Louis highlights the role of the coalition in changing the narrative around accessible housing and the importance to connect with influential leaders to make change happen. Let's dive in! In the early ‘90s, Louis Tenenbaum was one of the first contractors to focus his remodeling business on aging in place. Curious why, if home modifications are such a good idea, no one does it, Louis wrote the visionary white paper, Aging in Place 2.0: Rethinking Solutions to the Home Care Challenge published by the MetLife Mature Market Institute, cementing his role as a leading authority on Aging in Place.Uniquely straddling the building, aging and policy worlds, in 2016 Louis was named a Next Avenue “Influencer in Aging” and won a HIVE (Housing, Innovation, Vision and Economics) award from the building industry. Key Highlights: [00:01 - 07:00] Opening Segment • Louis introduces HomesRenewed Coalition and its purpose • How the coalition helps to increase the number of homes that are usable available to aging people and mobility difficulties • Louis's outlook on how the government responds to demographic trends of aging [07:01 - 13:16] Reducing Taxes On Home Modifications • The impact of aging place on the design and construction industry • The law that allows people to use their retirement savings accounts to pay for modifications to their homes without tax or penalty • How to create a market incentive for contractors to make modifications to homes accessible [13:16 - 20:17] The Coalition to Renewed Homes • Why there's a need for tax reform and infrastructure investment • The importance of coalition-building in order to get the bill passed • Louis emphasizes the importance of getting legislation through Congress and the role of the coalition in doing so [20:18 - 26:43] Provide Funding for Home Security • Louis's motivations for wanting to become involved in the disability community • The challenges of growing the disability community coalition, and the importance of outreach to legislators • How contractors can be involved in advocating for people with disabilities and encourage them to become members of the coalition [26:434- 30:46] Closing Segment • The goal of the Homes Renewed Coalition is to increase the number of houses that are prepared for people of modern longevity • We need to make sure that housing is available to people in reactive situations, as well as those who want to proactively change the narrative and change how our typical building techniques work Want to connect with Louis? Head to HomesRenewed, and support home incentive modifications! Key Quotes: "We can picture the past and project from the past, but we can't picture a future we don't know. " - Louis Tenenbaum  "If your home is more accessible, it's a better place for care to be delivered." - Louis Tenenbaum  "I'm more focused on getting the work done than I am on growing the coalition." - Louis Tenenbaum  Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Enabling Technology is the use of various forms of devices and tech to support a person with disabilities to live as independently as possible. In this week's episode, I have a great conversation with the Director of Enabling Technology, Milton Neuenschwander about how technology first is essential to providing successful services for individuals with disabilities. The state of Massachusetts has been at the forefront of this effort, and Milton shares some of the ways that technology has been integrated into their programs to make life easier for people with disabilities. He also stresses the importance of having champions in place from the state agency level who can help ensure that the technology is used in the most effective way possible and that people are benefitting from it. Let's dive in! Milton Neuenschwander is the State of TN Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (DIDD) Director of Enabling Technology as part of the Division of Program Innovation. He received his education at Wabash College with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Religion and Science and holds continuing education certifications for Person-Centered Practices, Staff Development, and Enabling Technology Integration. He has 18 years of experience in the areas of intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health services with a proven understanding of the concepts of management, leadership, and technology.  Key Highlights: [00:01 - 07:09] Opening Segment Milton introduces Enabling Technology and its mission How to provide funding, training, and education to support individuals to become more independent and empower them to have more control and build their independent living skills [07:11 - 21:04] Supporting Nonprofits in Providing Accessible Housing How Tenessee aims to integrate technology solutions into all parts of state services to provide a better quality of service How the state of Tennessee is working to address the housing accessibility crisis by looking at how to best support nonprofits that provide direct services How to reach out to other states to learn from their strategies and models for addressing the housing accessibility crisis [21:04 - 27:51] The Division of Program Innovation Milton shares the biggest lesson he learned from working with technology The importance of person-centered design when developing technology solutions, as it allows for more successful integration into people's lives. Champions are key in helping providers integrate technology or any other service into their services [27:51 - 32:37] Closing Segment Why technology has to be person-driven in order to be successful Want to connect with Milton? Head to Enabling Technology, a resource, and clearinghouse for all of the information related to the DIDD's program! Key Quotes: "We want to make sure that our services and those resources that are available across the state of Tennessee are assessable to people, not only in our services but also other people outside of our services with disabilities" - Milton Neuenschwander "We are always looking at partnering with other state organizations that have our same goal in mind with helping people with disabilities, having more access to resources across their communities to make sure that they can build that independence." - Milton Neuenschwander "Whenever you're considering technology, it has to be person-driven." - Milton Neuenschwander Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

As a care provider, we know that finding a good home for people with IDD can be one of the hardest parts of your job; fortunately, there are incredible real estate firms such as NestIDD that buys, renovates, leases, and manages homes for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In this episode, the Co-Founder & CEO of NestIDD, Andrew Parker shares his journey in providing support to the care agencies who work with people with IDD by purchasing and fixing up properties specifically for them. He also discloses how they help people to live in communities where they know everyone and get the support they need, and why he sees an opportunity to make their lives easier by providing technology and services that will help them provide better care to their clients. Let's dig into a real estate business model for providing accessible rental housing! Key Highlights: [00:01 - 08:42] Opening Segment • Andrew introduces NestIDD • How to help IDD residents find housing • How IDD provider offers affordable housing to care [08:43 - 19:33] Welcome to the World of IDD and DD Homes • IDD and DD real estate agents work with care providers to find homes for individuals with disabilities • Why small businesses succeed by helping care agencies • How the idea of NestIDD came up [19:34 - 26:24] Providing Better Care To More People • How NestIDD provides technology and assistance to care agencies to reduce the burden of housing for their clients • The impact of technology on how NestIDD prepares houses for their clients • The biggest challenge that NestIDD face to serve the care agencies they work with while also providing quality care to their clients [26:25 - 30:16] Closing Segment • When housing costs get too high for group home communities, the model becomes less viable Want to connect with Andrew? Follow him on LinkedIn. Make sure to visit NestIDD, we buy houses, customize them for people with disabilities, and lease and maintain them - affordably! Key Quotes: "When someone is able to move into a more independent living environment, it often makes the family's life richer and better because they can be family first rather than caretaker first." - Andrew Parker "The real business or the real customer we're serving is the care agency themselves who is looking for a particular piece of real estate to operate within." - Andrew Parker Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Do you want to make a difference in your community? In this week's episode, our guest is Susan Henderson, the associate executive director of Hope House, an organization that provides in-home support to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Susan describes Hope House as a foundation that provides all levels of support - including related activities of daily living (ADLs), to its clients in their own homes. She gives her insights about the current staffing crisis and housing crisis, which are leading to an increase in the number of individuals not getting adequate housing. She discloses her journey at Hope House Foundation and how they have been able to provide housing support. Listen and enjoy! Key Highlights: [00:01 - 09:19] Opening Segment What Hope House does and its mission How Susan helps her clients source apartments and connect with landlords Setting new standards in group home services [09:20 - 19:53] New Ways to Support Individuals with Disabilities Susan's outlook on the housing crisis in Virginia and the number of people that do not have adequate housing The use of technology to help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities Why it is important to focus on safety and build skills for clients   [19:54 - 26:31] Inclusive Communities for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities How to reach property managers Lessons learned on how to succeed with accessible housing We have to be willing to really listen to people with disabilities and understand what they want and need [26:32 - 29:29]Closing Segment Susan's tips for providers trying to create accessible housing Want to connect with Susan? Head to Hope House, an organization that provides services to adults with developmental disabilities exclusively in their own homes or apartments — regardless of how complex their disabilities may be. Key Quotes: "We like to try to encourage the people we support to build community." - Susan Henderson "There's so much to learn from individuals regardless, disability or not." - Susan Henderson "Know what you bring to the table, promote what you bring to the table, and find other people that have the skills that you'd like to partner with rather than trying to run yourself ragged and learning it all." - Susan Henderson Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

We all should have that opportunity to make choices for our lives, and we all should have the opportunity to advocate for our preferences in our lives. In this episode, Cameron Kempson, the co-founder, and director of education for Shift talks about the organization's focus on technology's first best practices and the importance of dignity of risk. She discusses how accessible housing matters by providing opportunities for people with disabilities to make choices for themselves and learn from their mistakes. He also discusses the importance of smart home capability, which can help to ensure that people with disabilities are safe and have access to necessary resources. Let's dig into technology first: setting the standard for the use of technology for in-home support! Key Highlights: [00:01 - 04:54] Opening Segment An overview of Tech First Shift How technology can be used to create opportunities for independence Providing accessible education and certification for people with disabilities [04:55 - 16:25] Using Technology in A Safe and Secure Way How to apply best practices when implementing technology Cameron shares how they have been educating providers and state entities about technology first  What the Shift program offers to organizations that meet the best practice standards  [16:26 - 28:37] Dignity Risk And Self-Determination How to use technology in a way that is respectful and promotes dignity, risk, and self-determination How Shift educates people with disabilities to provide services that are culturally relevant and applicable There is a need to reach out to marginalized populations and technology can be used to facilitate this [28:38 - 30:28] Closing Segment If you want to connect with Cameron, head to Tech First Shift, advancing the technology first movement within the IDD support community to create new opportunities for natural support! Key Quotes: “We wanted to be assured that people who were including technology in their homes, um, were educated on how to implement it, integrate it, um, and understand what's out there.” - Cameron Kempson “We're creating this opportunity for the dignity of risk. Or the capacity to make choices for yourself and then learn from those choices.” - Cameron Kempson “Technology has this great capacity to be discreet and to really serve people with disabilities.” - Cameron Kempson  Please check out videos of many of the podcast episodes on my YouTube channel: Accessible Housing Matters, To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit my website, or contact me on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard? Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Do you really know how innovative and affordable technology solutions can transform how we care for individuals with disabilities, aging adults, and veterans? In today's episode, the President of SimplyHome: Empowered by Technology, Jason Ray, talks about the company's history, focus on technology, and how to provide a person-centered experience with remote support. Jason also discusses some of the unique devices and sensors that are commonly used in a home environment and how technology can be used to bridge the gap between people and support services.  Let's dig into how to provide remote support services to individuals who need assistance living independently or with in-home support! Key Highlights: [00:01 - 05:36]  Opening Segment Jason introduces SimplyHome: Empowered by Technology Why technology needs to be used in a person-centered way to provide the best possible service to clients Challenges that Simply Home faces when providing remote support services [05:37 - 16:20] Technology Can Be Used To Help Support People How technology can be a helpful tool in providing services to people with disabilities The issues in implementing technology-based services Why there's a need for more efficient and effective service provision [16:21 - 25:10]Home and Community Based Services Challenges that States and organizations are having from a funding perspective  How technology can be used to help people stay dependent on agencies or organizations The importance of privacy and the best practices for implementing technology in a person-centered way [25:11 - 30:44] Closing Segment There are many different ways to provide accessible housing Do you want to connect with Jason Ray?  Follow him on LinkedIn. Make sure to visit SimpleHome, and learn more about how their technology empowers individuals to live their own self-determined lifestyles while addressing the concerns of caregivers.  Tweetable Quotes: "Anything that is done from a technology perspective really needs to be done in a person-centered way and not in a technology-centered way." - Jason Ray "We really want to understand what are the unique needs, abilities, challenges, preferences of a person, and then fit the right technology to that." - Jason Ray To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit our website, or contact us on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard?  Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going.  I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show.  Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Are you familiar with the Best Buddies Program? Best Buddies Living falls right into that category of accessible housing, which means an environment where residents feel safe, welcomed, included, and have access to the same opportunities as everyone else. In this episode, Julia Moluf,  the Residential Manager for Best Buddies Living in Washington, D.C, shares how this organization provides a place for people with and without disabilities to live together, form relationships, and have access to resources and support. Best Buddies Living is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The Best Buddies Living program is one of the organization's four key mission pillars, Inclusive Living. This program fosters an integrated experience for people with and without IDD to become active, contributing citizens who live independently in a dynamic environment where they can learn, grow, and thrive. Let's dig into how a major national non-profit is developing its model for inclusive housing! Key Highlights: [00:01 - 06:09]  Opening Segment An overview of the need for more accessible housing options Julia discloses what Best Buddies Living's mission is [07:01 - 17:36] Developing A Model For Inclusive Housing  The locations currently serving as Best Buddies Living locations Creating a community with people with and without disabilities How Best Buddies helps residents with disabilities to hone in on skills needed to live independently [17:37 - 25:23] Best Buddies International  Your housing program should have an environment where residents feel welcome and included The opportunities that Best Buddies offer for people with disabilities Julia's outlook on the importance of collaboration and inclusion The challenges and rewards of working in the disability community integration field  [25:24 - 26:46] Closing Segment  Raising awareness is critical in making a change in the way that we treat people with disabilities Do you want to connect with Best Buddies Living? Head to  https://www.bestbuddies.org/living/, a  program that fosters an integrated experience for people with and without IDD to become active, contributing citizens who live independently in a dynamic environment where they can learn, grow, and thrive To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit our website, or contact us on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard?  Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.  Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call. Tweetable Quote/s:  “If you give people the space to be inclusive and to have an inclusive environment, that inclusion does come.” - Julia Moluf “We just want someone who understands that living in a diverse community has a lot of value” - Julia Moluf “We're providing housing opportunities for people with and without disabilities to live together. So that's what we believe really sets us apart from a lot of other housing programs are group homes.” - Julia Moluf

Season 2 of Accessible Housing Matters is almost here! I look forward to sharing more great discussions with you in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for brand new episodes beginning next Monday with amazing new guests where we'll have deep conversations about how people all over the country are working hard to make housing more accessible. Don't forget to check out some of the great interviews from the past year on my new YouTube Channel: Accessible Housing Matters. If you want to learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit our website, or contact us on Facebook and Twitter. Like what you've heard?  Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.  Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Great news!   Season 2 of Accessible Housing Matters is just around the corner. In just a few weeks. I'll be back with brand new episodes. I will be speaking with accessible housing developers, smart technology experts and other amazing people doing amazing things to help make housing more accessible.    In the meantime, please check out some of the great interviews from the past year. Now you can watch them on my brand new YouTube channel or you can also access previous episodes from your favorite podcast server, or simply play them directly from my website.   To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit our website, or contact us on Facebook and Twitter.    Like what you've heard?  Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.   Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind, and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Hi Everyone!   I'm taking a bit of a break so there won't be a new show this week.  But I'll be back soon with brand new interviews, featuring exciting and interesting guests.   In the meantime, please check out some of the amazing interviews from the past year.   You can access them from your favorite podcast server, or simply play them directly from my website, at http://www.AccessibleHousingMatters.com   Thanks for listening, and I look forward to sharing more great discussions with you in the coming weeks. To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit our website, or contact us on Facebook and Twitter.    Like what you've heard?  Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.   Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind, and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Welcome to Accessible Housing Matters!   In today's episode, I welcome Rosemarie Rossetti   Rosemarie Rossetti, Ph.D. is a powerful, internationally recognized expert on accessible and universal design. She speaks to and consults with design and building professionals who want to design homes and workplaces that are more accessible, safe, and inclusive. She is the President of Rossetti Enterprises Inc. which she founded in 1997.  Rossetti and her husband designed, built, and live in the Universal Design Living Laboratory, the national demonstration home, and garden. This is the highest-rated universal design home in North America earning three national certifications.    Rossetti is the author of the Universal Design Toolkit. As a foremost expert on universal and accessible design, she shares her knowledge and experience through her book, feature articles in national publications, in-person presentations, webinars, radio/TV interviews, and podcasts. Rossetti is an inspiring entrepreneur who is rethinking design and building by spearheading discussions and experiments around re-imagined living and working spaces.    Listen to find out more about:   [00:01 - 04:21] Opening Segment I welcome Rosemarie Rossetti to the Show Bio The Universal Design Living Laboratory How Rosemarie made this bigger than her own home   [04:22 - 13:16] What Makes a Home Accessible Making the Universal Design Living Laboratory a national demostration home Home accessibility and visibility 32 Months of Construction: The 10-Year Journey of Rosemarie's Dream home Rosemarie's Grand Development   [13:17 - 25:04] Dream Home turned National Demonstration Site A National Demostration Site Rosemarie gives us a quick tour of their house Moving in the house after over 2 years of construction Bringing impact to the disability and development communities, and more Lesson and Changes from Rosemarie    [25:05 - 30:18] Closing Segment Learn more by grabbing your own copy of The Universal Design Toolkit through Amazon or UniversalDesignToolkit.com You can connect with Rosemarie through rosemarie@rosemariespeaks.com, Universal Design Living Laboratory, Rosemarie's TEDex Talk, and Rosemarie's website.   To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit our website, or contact us on Facebook and Twitter.    Like what you've heard?  Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.   Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind, and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.   Tweetable Quote/s:   “You do need that team to develop your accessible housing. You can't do it independently.” - Rosemarie Rossetti  

Today, I want to share an encore recording of one of my most popular interviews last August with April Marie Dawson.   April has been the Executive Director of Resources for Independent Living (RIL) in Sacramento since August 2018.  April's first exposure to the independent living movement came when she was a Youth Leadership Forum delegate. April started her professional ILC career as an Independent Living Advocate for Disability Services and Legal Center, eventually becoming their Advocacy Director. During this time April was an active peer mentor with the YO! Disabled and Proud program and YLF. Prior to assuming her role with RIL, April served as Executive Director of two disability-focused organizations in California and Oregon.   April is a native of Windsor, California. She is a graduate of Sonoma State University with a degree in Liberal Studies. When not working, April enjoys taking day trips with her husband Paul and her dog, Sammie.   Listen to find out more about:   [00:01 - 04:20] Opening Segment I welcome April Marie Dawson to the Show April introduces independent living centers Serving people of all ages and all types of disabilities   [04:21 - 13:35] How Independent Living Centers Help People find Accessible and Affordable Housing What is a Housing Search Assistant? Homeless and Institutional Diversions  Working with cities and planners to enhance designs for accessible housing Why You Should Be Involved From the Beginning April talks about Accessory Dwelling Units Assisting People for Fair Housing   [13:36 - 28:57] A Disconnect between Disability Communities  Addressing the Low Supply for Accessible and Affordable Housing  April's biggest frustration in housing Considering Everyone as a Person with Disabilities Redesigning housing using universal standards Political leaders and their actions toward people with disabilities April's advice on making a difference in independent living, accessible and affordable housing The interesting story on how April got into her current career    [28:58 - 30:49] Closing Segment You can connect with April Marie through aprild@ril-sacramento.org and 916-446-3074 or visit their website https://www.ril-sacramento.org/ and join hands with independent living centers in forwarding their advocacies. To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit our website, or contact us on Facebook and Twitter.    Like what you've heard?  Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.   Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind, and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.   Resources Mentioned: Project Sentinel Sacramento Ed Roberts   Tweetable Quote/s:   “Access, in order for it to work, has to be included at the front-end.” - April Marie Dawson   “If you're not thinking of people with disabilities in your homeless masterplan, then you're leaving almost the majority of the people that are on the streets at any one given time out of those plans and it's not going to work.” - April Marie Dawson   “People with disabilities are everyone.” - April Marie Dawson  

In today's episode, we are joined by Andrew Myers.  Andrew is an occupational therapist who specializes in home modifications and universal design.  He founded U-Home Consulting five years ago to empower people to thrive in their homes and communities.  Based in California, he works with clients all over the United States.   Listen to find out more about:   [00:01 - 05:35] Opening Segment I welcome Andrew Myers to the Show Bio Andrew shares what he does as an occupational therapist Modifying homes from a clinical perspective   [05:36 - 15:28] Help is on the Way!   Planning for your safe place after a trip from the hospital Health, home, family, and resources: Factors you have to consider in designing your therapist-approved dream home  The Price of Your Newly Renovated Accessible Home Collaborating with clients for their perfect home   [15:29 - 24:02] Helping People Evaluate Homes for Accessibility The Secret Sauce to Andrew's Accessibility-Centered Real Estate Career How Andrew helps people evaluate their homes virtually Avail Andrew's service all for $750!  Technologies in the Home     [24:03 - 26:36] Closing Segment You can connect with Andrew through U-Home Consulting and live your life to the fullest inside and outside your home! To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit our website, or contact us on Facebook and Twitter.    Like what you've heard?  Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.   Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind, and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call. Tweetable Quote/s:   “I learned that so many people who have had strokes and extreme fractures were unprepared to go home, their home was not set up to allow them to thrive.” - Andrew Myers   “People need to know that if they're going to be putting money into their home in order to age in place, that there's gonna be other costs associated with that.” - Andrew Myers

In this week's episode, I'm very excited to be continuing my series of Adventures in House Hunting! For that reason, I have two very special guests, Johnathan Mazzeo and Zoha Raad. They bought their home in Concord California in August of 2020 and are enjoying their time living there with their two boys Daniel and Dean. They are a wonderful family that will share with us their experience becoming homeowners, and their decision to take risks and don't wait anymore to pursue their dream home! Jonathan moved to Berkeley to attend the University of California after high school. He remained in Berkeley after graduating, living in a rent-controlled apartment for nine years, during which time he got married and had children. He became an IRS Enrolled Agent in 2016, completed his master's degree in accounting in 2019, and became a licensed CPA in 2021 Zoha had a massive stroke at age 23,  which shifted her entire world-view and understanding of disability. Since that time, she has dedicated herself to improving her understanding of disability by pursuing a minor in Disability Studies at the University of California Berkeley. Zoha was introduced to Stephen through a disability rights activist and later became acquainted with his services.  Tune in and learn more about this new adventure in house hunting! [00:01 - 04:27] Opening Segment I welcome Johnathan & Zoha to the Show Their experience buying a condo in 2020 A pretty spacious place: A townhouse Their long-term plan Johnathan & Zoha share how they decided to be homeowners Living in a 2 bedroom apartment Freezing cold in winter [04:28 - 14:16] House Hunting  Johnathan's & Zoha's insight about renting vs owning Getting a bigger space they could afford Buying a hoe a the beginning of Covid Through the Looking Glass: They support children and parents with disabilities What happened when they met Stephen They change the mindset of not being able to afford a house The decision to not wait anymore How Johnathan & Zoha started to look for homes House hunting from the very start Evaluating the location BMR (Below Market Rate What they think once they've chosen the condo A cozy and enormous place A great design and location [14:17 - 25:15] Get the Offer Approved  How Johnathan & Zoha felt when the offer was accepted   “If it was meant to be, it would be”   Giving the best offer The concern that sellers might violate the housing law by favoring and disfavoring some buyer over another one Deals are no just business transactions, they are personal events How the moving process was Getting the keys They would've wished to hire a moving company They did everything by themselves The upgrades and work Johnathan & Zoha have done to the condo Repainting  some areas: bedroom, hallways, closets, etc. A small leak: used the home warranty The biggest advice for people who want to become homeowners Take the risk, act and don't be afraid  [25:16 - 27:47] Closing Segment A good agent makes a difference See the links below to know more about Johnathan & Zoha Final word Resources Mentioned: Through the Looking Glass  Tweetable Quote/s: “And I had visions of the holidays and of having nice winters. And actually, it turned out exactly like that. It's a very cozy place” - Johnathan Mazzeo “I thought, well, we could rent a couple more years and other nights below market rate, save a little bit more, maybe go after something like a single-family home in the backyard, maybe the market will go down,none of those things. I mean, obviously that hasn't happened.” - Johnathan Mazzeo  “If someone could afford the monthly payments, and it's a secure choice better than renting because you're throwing away money. You're helping someone else pay their mortgage.” - Zoha Raad To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit our website, or contact us on Facebook and Twitter.  Like what you've heard?  Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast. Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind, and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Welcome to Accessible Housing Matters!   In today's episode, I welcome Denise Resnik   Denise is the founder and president/CEO of First Place® AZ (established in 2012), co-founder of the Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC, established in 1997), and founder and CEO of DRA Collective, a marketing/communications firm (established in 1986) that serves clients in a variety of fields, including real estate, economic development, healthcare, education, and hospitality. Her adult son Matt, who has autism, and others with different abilities inspire her work.   Backed by more than 20 years of research, support from the Urban Land Institute, and more than 100 collaborators from the public, private, philanthropic, and nonprofit sectors, First Place AZ is positioned for transformational impact on how society approaches housing and community development for individuals with autism and other neurodiversities.    Denise's leadership has also driven the development of two major studies:  A Place in the World: Fueling Housing and Community Options for Adults with Autism and Other Neurodiversities, offering the universal language for a guiding narrative to research, develop and achieve supportive housing solutions.  Opening Doors: A Discussion of Residential Options for Adults Living with Autism and Related Disorders, the first-ever study to focus on the housing challenges of adults with autism and other neurodiversities.    Listen to find out more about:   [00:01 - 06:05] Opening Segment I welcome Denise Resnik to the Show Bio An introduction to the study “A Place in the World” Watch the full video in the link below!    [06:06 - 13:37] Opening Doors More than a million of adult children with autism and other intellectual developmental disabilities live with their parents aged 60 and older What do we mean by autism and neurodiversity? Lousy Returns on Investments  Best Innovations  at First Place Taking a more innovative approach to gain more successful outcomes “Where we start with this innovation isn't where we end.”   [13:38 - 31:26] A Place in the World The Market Place is a Big Place Denise talks about the impact of the 2009 report in changing views on housing and development Out of the Bubble:  Getting beyond the autism and disability housing marketplace Inclusivity, Services and Housing Support Lots of love for Amazon Web Services The Crisis of Aging Caregivers Why and How Denise has become a leading advocate A Need to Leap Forward Together    [31:27 - 32:36] Closing Segment See links below to know more about Denise Resnik Final word Resources Mentioned: A Place in the World – Short Video  A Place in the World – Complete Report Home Matters to Arizona Tweetable Quote/s:   “When we talk about people who are in need of housing, who have not only the physical support of housing and four walls, they also have the community support, and they also have supports in their homes because of some of the challenges that they face.” - Denise Resnik   “It's expensive to make sure that we provide the adequate supports people need to live their fullest and most independent life possible.” - Denise Resnik   “My being an almost senior doesn't tell you what I need in my housing. Autism doesn't tell you what you need either. But we need to leap forward.” - Denise Resnik To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit our website, or contact us on Facebook and Twitter.    Like what you've heard?  Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.   Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind, and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Welcome to Accessible Housing Matters!   In today's episode, I welcome Ben Tran and Gurinder Pabla   My guests Ben Tran and Gurinder Pabla work in the San Francisco office of the California State Department of Rehabilitation.   Ben is the District Operations Support Manager, and Gurinder is the Community Resource Navigator.     Listen to find out more about:   [00:01 - 06:12] Opening Segment I welcome Ben Tran and Gurinder Pabla to the Show Bio Ben shares what the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) does Promoting employment independence and equality Rehabilitation departments and services in different states When the number of DOR's clients fluctuates, it's positive! Gurinder talks about his role in the department   [06:13 - 14:37] Thinking Outside the Box in San Francisco Rehabilitation to Housing Who does the DOR focus on? Sharing resources to the client community How Gurinder finds the resources Housing Navigation Services  Service for the Homeless Help and Support from the Mayor's Office   [14:38 - 27:05] From Jobs to Houses Serving the people as an individual 1% at a time Stop the Stop Mentality Gurinder tells the story of one of their most impactful clients Quality if Success versus Quantity of Success Ensuring the safety of homes    [27:06 - 30:03] Closing Segment See links below to know more about Ben Tran and Gurinder Pabla Final word Tweetable Quote/s:   “We didn't start out with stop mentality, we started out with ‘How can we serve our consumer as well as the community that we are housing and be a part of that community?'” - Ben Tran   “I like to have results. So just even that one successful housing means a lot because that's one person that has found their home. ” - Gurinder Pabla   You can connect with Ben and Gurinder through visiting California Department of Rehabilitation. Link to “Get Started” section of DOR Website:  https://www.dor.ca.gov/Home/GettingStarted.  To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit our website, or contact us on Facebook and Twitter.    Like what you've heard?  Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.   Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind, and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Welcome to Accessible Housing Matters!   In today's episode, I welcome Paula Manion & Donna Budway   Paula Manion is the Founder and Chair of Our Stomping Ground - Inclusive Communities.  She is a strong and passionate leader of the mission to create affordable, inclusive communities and meaningful lives for adults with disabilities. Paula's belief is that the greatest barriers adults with disabilities face are not their disability--they are the barriers to housing, employment, and meaningful social experiences. Paula also serves the community as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Primary Care Mental Health Specialist with a special focus on advocacy and care of children and adolescents with developmental disabilities and mental health issues.  She and her husband reside in Northern VA where they have raised their 3 children, the oldest of whom has autism.     Donna Budway has served as a community organizer in Arlington for the past two decades.  She is active in autism advocacy, food insecurity, and homeless issues, LGBTQ teen supports, hospice, and tutoring for at-risk students.  Donna and her husband Robert have three children, their youngest Emma, a non-speaking autistic, lives in Our Stomping Ground's first community, Gilliam Place in Arlington.  Donna manages our programming and is instrumental in her outreach in sharing the mission and the importance of making a community.  Her passion is in developing and sustaining inclusive settings and ensuring the well-being of adults of all abilities.   Listen to find out more about:   [00:01 - 04:13] Opening Segment I welcome Paula Manion & Donna Budway to the Show Bio Providing accessible housing to give an opportunity for people with disabilities to live as independently as possible   [04:14 - 12:13] What does “Inclusive Housing” Really Look Like? Not a housing solution for everyone, but could be a larger solution Inclusive Communities Looking into issues of diversity and equity Affordable complexes are multigenerational How People without Disabilities Experience Inclusive Communities   [12:14 - 23:52] Stomping Ground Inclusive Communities in Virginia Addressing the problem of a lack of inclusive schools The Most Organic Way to Have Inclusion Spontaneous Opportunities for Inclusion  Paula shares the biggest lesson they learned from creating their accessible housing model “We're changing and learning.” The Inclusion Penalty   [23:53 - 30:53] Closing Segment Paula and Donna share how they found themselves in this space See links below to know more about Paula Manion & Donna Budway Final word Tweetable Quote/s:   “We had the potential not to build just one place… we could partner and not have one but several communities to provide solutions for affordable and accessible housing.” - Paula Manion   “We're trying to make up for all this time where people have not been familiar with people with different abilities being in their space.” - Donna Budway   You can connect with Paula & Donna through info@ourstompingground.org or visit Our Stomping Ground and take the next step to living meaningful lives outside of the family and group homes. To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit our website, or contact us on Facebook and Twitter.    Like what you've heard?  Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.   Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind, and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Welcome to Accessible Housing Matters!   In today's episode, I welcome Erick Mikiten   Erick Mikiten, AIA, started Mikiten Architecture in 1991 to elevate multi-family affording housing to a higher level of care and design. As a wheelchair-rider and hard-of-hearing architect, Erick has been sought after by clients around the country to bring new, creative levels of design to mixed-use, library, museum, global corporate workplace, and single- and multi-family projects, and appointed by the California Governor to the CA Building Standards Commission.    30 years later (and 30 years after the ADA took effect), seeing that the profession was still just barely meeting the ADA threshold - and rarely striving above it - Erick created another firm to advocate for radical new levels of Universal Design (UD) and inclusion, intended to demonstrate that great UD is not a compromise that has to make buildings look institutional, or that limits creativity. Instead, great UD opens new opportunities for a user-centric, comfortable design that treats everyone well. This new business - and a rallying call for the profession - is The Art of Access.   Listen to find out more about:   [00:01 - 01:32] Opening Segment I welcome Erick Mikiten to the Show Bio Erick's back on the show!    [01:33 - 22:51] Making Universal Design Sexy A really exciting initiative accessible design standard project California is lucky to have a pretty progressive building code The disparity between California and Oregon From developers, architects, and building operators: A Detailed List of Design Tools Everybody's a Little Different Strictly Multifamily Projects Meeting the standard codes Scoring with a long list of over 300 different elements It's national!  Erick shares the process of making a nationally standardized accessibility code The Inclusive Design Council Different types of physical and other digital liberation  Accessible Design Standards: https://thekelsey.org/design/  Promoting the Code: Erick and his team's rollout strategy Other groups that have created commercial building standards Training curriculums, orientations, and certifications   [22:52 - 24:34] Closing Segment See links below to know more about Erick Mikiten Final word Tweetable Quote/s:   “Housing developers recognize that building code doesn't necessarily create dwelling units that are really usable by everyone equally.” - Erick Mikiten   “In the standard, we're thinking about differences between people in many, many different ways. I tried to really acknowledge that, that the world is not full of mostly “normal, average” people, but that everybody's a little different.” - Erick Mikiten   You can connect with Erick through Erick@mikitenarch.com and LinkedIn. Visit the following websites https://thekelsey.org/design/ and https://www.mikitenarch.com/.  To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit our website, or contact us on Facebook and Twitter.    Like what you've heard?  Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.   Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind, and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Welcome to Accessible Housing Matters!   In today's episode, I welcome James and Joellen Conway   James and Joellen bought their new home together in Rio Vista, California last year.  Rio Vista is about 70 miles from San Francisco.   Listen to find out more about:   [00:01 - ] Opening Segment I welcome James and Joellen Conway to the Show Bio   [01:26 - 24:12] James & Joellen's House Hunting Adventure James and Joellen share about the house that they bought Six Years of Thinking of Homeownership  Obstacles and challenges that James and Joellen faced Impractical homes James and Joellen's Journey to Finding their Perfect Home First Offer Accepted! Plenty of Light, My Art is Thriving!  First Day in the House: Keys handed over and a lot of pictures taken  James and Joellen share their first impressions of the house and the community All Great Responses The Secret to Purchasing Multiple Houses in a Competitive Market Some pieces of advice for future homeowners   [24:13 - 27:20] Closing Segment Final word Tweetable Quote/s:   “I've gotten a little bit sicker since I've moved in, but this house is supporting me beautifully.” - James Conway   “Be very careful and make sure you pick the right team you work with.” - Joellen Conway To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit our website, or contact us on Facebook and Twitter.    Like what you've heard?  Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.   Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind, and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.  

Welcome to Accessible Housing Matters!   In today's episode, I welcome Desiree Kameka Galloway   Desiree Kameka Galloway is a recognized disability housing expert. As the Director of the Autism Housing Network for the Madison House Autism Foundation, she spent over a decade researching the barriers and identifying unique opportunities to increase residential options for adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities, has led national advocacy efforts on issues of autism in adulthood and has positively influenced policy development at national and state levels. Having visited over 120 residential opportunities and social enterprises across the USA, and led a network of over 250 organizations, Desiree uses this experience and network to help individuals and local leaders understand supportive housing options, service delivery models, and strategies for neuro-inclusive community development.     Desiree is also the proud co-author and co-editor of the groundbreaking report, A Place in the World: Fueling Housing and Community Options for Adults with Autism and Other Neurodiversities. Her work in housing is included among international academics and professionals. She has been invited to speak on panels at the World Human Rights Cities Forum by UN-Habitat, the United Nations World Autism Awareness Day, Great Minds Coming Together on Autism International Conference, and at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) to the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC) on Autism After 21 and was an invited member of the IACC Housing Taskforce. She is also a certified cohousing consultant and a Cohousing Solutions 500 Communities Affiliate.   Desiree's vision is that every person with intellectual/developmental disability, autism, or other neurodiversity can access a home in their community that actively fosters relationships and meaningful inclusion. This vision drives her company, Neuro-Inclusive Housing Solutions, LLC to conduct local market analysis, support advocacy efforts and coalition building, connect professionals and provide consulting services to housing developers for data-driven housing solutions across the country.   Listen to find out more about:   [00:01 - 03:06] Opening Segment I welcome Desiree Kameka Galloway to the Show Bio “My job is so exciting!” Desiree shares the joys of her profession A Perfect One Size Fits All?   [03:07 - 27:07] The Invisible Housing Crisis As bad as we think it is We talk about the housing crisis we all know about The American Housing Survey Invisible in the data and displacement The Invisible Group: Over 7-Million Members How to Address an Ongoing Housing Problem Step 1: Making the Invisible Visible Step 2: Local-Level Needs All across the spectrum, “This has to be cross-sector work.” Difference per state The Lanterman Act Medicaid Had to Evolve Medicaid Expansion and Resolving the Homeless Crisis Some points to ponder on  Medicaid Dollars for Housing Support Technology and Remote Support Services Types of technologies for people with IDD and DD So much support, not a lot of resistances Funding, language Top 3 Things You Have to Learn Housing Solutions as Triangles How Desiree got involved in this work In a Stage of Trailblazing   [27:08 - 29:11] Closing Segment See links below to know more about Desiree Kameka Galloway Final word Resources Mentioned:    A Place in the World: Fueling Housing and Community Options for Adults with Autism and other Neurodversities Report  State of Tennessee Enabling Technology Program     Tweetable Quote/s:   “It's so important that local communities think about the diversity of housing options that need to be created to ensure that their citizens are not displaced because of lack of housing.” - Desiree Kameka Galloway   “People with intellectual developmental disabilities should be able to own their home and not rent their whole lives.” - Desiree Kameka Galloway   I“individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are already experiencing homelessness.” - Desiree Kameka Galloway   You can connect with Desiree through desiree@neuroinclusivehousingsolutions.com   Check out the following links: Neuro-Inclusive Housing Solutions, LLC Autism Housing Network Madison House Autism Foundation   To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit our website, or contact us on Facebook and Twitter.    Like what you've heard?  Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.   Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind, and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.

Welcome to Accessible Housing Matters!   In today's episode, I welcome Don Shirley and Chris Cooley   SafeinHome President Don Shirley brings more than thirty-five years of innovative healthcare and technology experience to the company and industry.  Don has been instrumental in such endeavors as bringing home-dialysis therapies to patients seeking self-directed lifestyles, to being one of the pioneers in web-based purchasing for the healthcare industry.  With a focus on safety, independence, and self-determination, Don has overseen all development and marketing activity for the company, expanding SafeinHome's service offering to eleven states and growing!  Don makes his home in West Palm Beach, Florida with his wife and three children, and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Economics from Indiana University as well as a Master's in Marketing from Loyola University Chicago.   Chris Cooley is legally blind and deaf and lives in Portsmouth, Ohio. He is an expert on service dogs and service dog awareness. Chris is also passionate about remote support technologies and the role they play in helping people with disabilities to live more independent lives.   He is on the board of the Ohio tech ambassadors program.  His role is to help spread awareness about technology how it can help us live independently.  His dog Larkin is a 4year old golden retriever.   Listen to find out more about:   [00:01 - 01:17] Opening Segment I welcome Don Shirley and Chris Cooley to the Show Bio   [01:18 - 27:36] A Story of Better Independent Living Don shares about SafeinHome Remote support for people with disabilities “Let's allow people to live where they want to live.” What are direct support and services? A shortage of direct support professionals The human part of SafeinHome Not just a call center Chris shares about his experience with SafeinHome The story of how Chris found SafeinHome “They're there no matter what.” Hey Chris! What did you do today? An excitement with a phone call A team of friends in a push of a button in little black box SafeinHome Services Affordable One person at a time Availability in other states    [27:37 - 31:06] Closing Segment See links below to know more about Don Shirley and Chris Cooley Final word Tweetable Quote/s:   “We are here truly to provide service and support. And that service and support is defined person by person” - Don Shirley   “Not everyone is the same. And not everyone needs the same service. You get to choose.” - Chris Cooley   You can connect with Don and Chris through https://www.safeinhome.com/ and Youtube. To learn more, share feedback, or share guest ideas, please visit our website, or contact us on Facebook and Twitter.    Like what you've heard?  Please review us! That helps let other people know about the podcast.   Accessible Housing Matters is dedicated to raising awareness about important issues around accessibility and housing, and getting conversations going. I'd love to learn more about what's on your mind, and get your feedback about the show. Contact me directly at stephen@accessiblehousingmatters.com to share your thoughts or arrange a call.