Upcoming Fundraiser Will Support Renovation Of Housing Community For Disabled Adults In Highland Park

HIGHLAND PARK, IL — The Commons, Illinois' first parent-led cooperative housing community for adults with disabilities, is set to host a fundraiser to fund the final phases of renovation.

Non-profit the Collaborative Community Housing Initiative broke ground on the Highland Park housing community at 1651 Richfield Ave. last summer. The 48-unit building is now in its final stages and residents are expected to start moving in this fall.

Next week, on Feb. 20, CCHI is hosting Keys to Connection at 28 Mile Distillery in Highwood to raise funds and rally community support. The event will feature food and drink, a wine pull, a silent auction and entertainment.

Funds raised at the event will help fund the remainder of the renovation needed at the building.

The Commons will offer ADA-compliant private studios and one-bedroom units as well as around-the-clock front desk support and on-site community programming. Each resident will live in their own independent apartment while maintaining their own jobs, routines and support services.

"Inclusive housing doesn't have to be institutional or isolating," said Laurie Williams, CCHI founder and executive director. "We're creating a community where residents find the connections they need to live as independently as possible.”

The nonprofit said it was inspired to act after noticing the critical shortage of services for adults with disabilities and their families as they transition to adult life.