On February 5th, 2025, the California Policy Center for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (CPCIDD) successfully hosted the enlightening event, “Housing for All: Best Practices in IDD Housing Development,” at MERISTEM in Fair Oaks, CA. With an impressive turnout of 115 attendees from various regions of the state, this event proved to be an invaluable opportunity for learning, networking, and advancing the cause of inclusive housing for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Throughout the day, attendees were treated to a series of thought-provoking presentations and insightful panel discussions led by a diverse group of experts and stakeholders in the field. The day began with an engaging introduction session, followed by a viewing of the ACRC Client Advisory Committee (CAC) Housing Video. The Association of Regional Center Agencies CAC panel then shared their perspectives on fostering inclusive housing environments for individuals with developmental disabilities.
The morning session continued with representatives from the California Department of Developmental Services, San Diego Regional Center, and Alta California Regional Center discussing the benefits of partnering with regional centers to develop multifamily housing projects. This session provided valuable insights into the collaboration opportunities and the practical steps required to bring these projects to life.
Micaela Connery from The Kelsey captivated the audience with her presentation on the best practices in developing inclusive housing for IDD individuals. Drawing from her experiences in the Bay Area, Connery highlighted successful strategies and shared lessons learned that can be applied to other regions.
During the “Lunch and Learn” session, Dr. Lou Vismara and the team from AKT Development provided an overview of their innovative Community for Health and Independence project. This initiative, in partnership with UC Davis, aims to create a planned community focused on healthy aging in place, including provisions for adults with developmental disabilities.
The afternoon sessions featured discussions on housing access services and the role of housing authorities. Darin Lounds from the Housing Consortium of the East Bay and Ruth Henderson from First Step Housing Access Services shared their efforts in connecting regional center clients to affordable housing options. Ian Evans, Executive Director of Yolo County Housing, provided a detailed overview of housing authorities’ activities and their partnership with regional centers, while Tom Lewis from the California Affordable Housing Agency discussed collaboration opportunities with developers and housing authorities.
The final panel of the day, titled “What’s Next – Additional Advocacy at the Local, State, and Federal Levels,” brought together experts from Disability Rights California, the Association of Regional Center Agencies, the California Community Living Network, and the Lanterman Housing Alliance. The panelists shared their thoughts on the importance of advocacy efforts to increase access to accessible, affordable housing for IDD individuals.
The event concluded with a networking session, allowing attendees to connect, share ideas, and form new partnerships. The active participation, shared knowledge, and robust discussions throughout the day made “Housing for All: Best Practices in IDD Housing Development” a resounding success. CPCIDD remains committed to advancing affordable inclusive housing solutions and looks forward to building on the momentum generated by this event.
