Martin Luther King Jr. Legacy Award Winner – Tri-Valley REACH

On January 22, 2024, Tri-Valley REACH was presented with a Martin Luther King Jr. Legacy Award by the Community of Character Board. This award recognizes a local nonprofit organization or individual from the Tri-Valley that showcases the ideals of Dr. King Jr.

“On behalf of our founders, the REACH Board and all those we have served and continue to serve in our community, we are extremely humbled and grateful for this prestigious award,” expressed Sharon Almeida, Board Vice-Chair, Tri-Valley REACH.

Since 1990, Tri-Valley REACH has worked to build inclusive communities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to live independently within existing neighborhoods. REACH believes the key to independence is housing by promoting inclusivity both inside and outside the home, supporting 42 residents in 12 homes across Pleasanton and Livermore. 

“Our residents live in neighborhoods alongside people from all different walks of life, experiencing diversity every day. And conversely, those neighbors get to experience knowing people with I/DD, promoting acceptance and acknowledgement, said Almeida, “Our residents build friendships with their neighbors while walking to the mailbox, setting out their recycling, or waiting for a bus to get to work.”

“REACH’s shared housing model encourages personal growth, compromise with roommates, and freedom to make decisions for themselves, things we may take for granted like… what to have for dinner, when to wake up, or where to work,” said Almeida.

These homes are tailored to accommodate the needs of each resident, fostering confidence and freedom, creating safe, accessible spaces that support their residents’ mobility. Housing options are a pressing concern for many extremely low-income adults with I/DD. To address this concern, REACH’s rents are income based and as low as $350 per month. 

All REACH services are provided exclusively through board volunteers, donors, fundraising, and grants. Donations are instrumental in providing not just a home, but independence to Tri-Valley community members with I/DD.