South Orange Planning Board Approves JESPY Center

SOUTH ORANGE, NJ — The South Orange Planning Board voted on November 4th to approve JESPY House’s application for The JESPY Center, a transformative project aimed at providing a fully accessible residential, service, and program space for adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). This state-of-the-art building will feature 31 units serving at least 46 clients.

JESPY House, a nonprofit organization committed to independence for adults with IDD, has long been a fixture in South Orange. Their mission focuses on ensuring that individuals have access to meaningful employment, vibrant social networks, and the opportunity for independent living.

The JESPY Center’s approval comes at a crucial time when our state and the nation grapples with a housing crisis that disproportionately impacts individuals with disabilities. Clients have faced housing insecurity due to rising costs, making this project essential.

Audrey Winkler, JESPY's Executive Director, expressed her excitement for the Planning Board's decision: “We are thrilled! We are truly appreciative of the Village’s support of this critical project that will provide affordable housing for those most in need. Clients have called South Orange home for over 45 years. Yet, some have lost their apartments due to escalating rents that outpaced their salaries. Many more are at great risk. This project represents a lifeline, allowing our clients to remain in a community where they have built their lives.”

For many adults with IDD, stability and routine are crucial for independence. The JESPY Center will provide an environment where residents can thrive. “The Planning Board has helped our clients take a giant step closer to keeping their rich and fulfilling lives in South Orange!” Winkler added.

JESPY clients are enthusiastic. Deondre W. shared, “I want to become more independent, and once I achieve that goal, I’ll finally be free!” Client Debra D. echoed this excitement. “This new building is going to help a lot of people stay in the neighborhood they have lived in for years and dearly love!”

Planning Board members read hundreds of pages of public documents, heard many hours of testimony from experts, and listened to extensive questions and comments from the community. Dr. Ahadi Bugg-Levine, President of JESPY’s Board of Trustees, noted: “This was a rigorous process. We are grateful for the Planning Board’s hard work and for the many community members who showed their commitment to JESPY and the project.”

Nina Essel, South Orange resident, emphasized the importance of community activism. “Clients are our neighbors! I am proud of the hundreds of local residents who sent letters and signed a petition to show their support. The JESPY Center will be a wonderful addition to our community. It will meet client needs while blending beautifully with our historic design features.”

Bugg-Levine emphasized the importance of the Planning Board’s decision, “Their approval has brought great hope! We are excited for the day when JESPY clients can turn the keys to their own homes, live independently, and enjoy the benefits of South Orange’s walkable and diverse community. As our town motto states, ‘Everybody belongs here!’”

Established in South Orange in 1978, JESPY House currently supports 300 clients in areas that include Day Habilitation and Engagement & Enrichment programs; Case Management; Community-Based Supports; Clinical & Behavioral Support Services; Athletics & Fitness; and Work Readiness & Employment Engagement. JESPY also offers Residential Services. To learn more, visit www.jespy.org.