Home Sweet Home
On February 7, 2024, the local nonprofit Tri-Valley REACH celebrated a significant milestone with their Sweetheart Open House and Ribbon Cutting event at the recently acquired Camden Commons property in Livermore, California. Devoted to building affordable, safe, and equitable living options for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in the Tri-Valley, REACH marked the occasion with a symbolic ribbon cutting ceremony, inaugurating a new chapter of expansion.
The late afternoon event brought together local dignitaries, community leaders, residents, and community members, officially welcoming REACH to the Camden Commons neighborhood. Situated in Livermore’s Springtown neighborhood, the new residents will enjoy convenient access to popular dining spots, local shopping, and community transportation. “As a result of this collaboration with the City of Livermore, REACH can now offer a beautiful, safe, and extremely affordable home to four more adults with I/DD”, said Kay King, Tri-Valley REACH Board Chair.
Livermore Mayor John Marchand shared remarks via Council member, Evan Branning, underscoring the city’s instrumental role in acquiring the property and its continued support for REACH’s mission. He stated, “We remain committed to helping those in our community that are the most vulnerable. One of the pillars of the city’s strategic plan is creating a community that thrives. If this community is going to thrive, everyone must have an opportunity to have a place to live, a place to be. That is what this collaboration has done—creating spaces where people can thrive.”
Tri-Valley REACH purchases homes within existing neighborhoods, creating shared living spaces where each resident has a private bedroom and shares communal spaces. The key to independence, according to REACH, lies in housing that encourages inclusivity both within and outside the home. This model not only provides a sense of community but also promotes diversity, as residents live alongside people from different walks of life. “The REACH shared housing model promotes inclusivity at its best, fostering relationships between residents and neighbors while facilitating independent living skills”, said King. REACH residents engage in everyday activities like walking to the mailbox, setting out recycling, and waiting for a bus, fostering friendships and understanding among neighbors.
REACH currently supports 42 residents across 12 homes in Pleasanton and Livermore. The rental fees at REACH properties are income based, with rates as low as $350 per month, enabling significantly low-income adults with I/DD the ability to attain independent living.
After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, guests were invited to explore the newly renovated home during an open house. New REACH resident, Danielle, eagerly shared her excitement, providing community members with a firsthand look at their new living space.
Expressing gratitude, Jamie Renton, REACH Board Member and Adults with Disabilities Transition Specialist for PUSD’s Pleasanton Adult and Career Education, emphasized the vital role played by the City of Livermore, particularly Mayor John Marchand, supporting the nonprofit and the acquisition of this new property. Renton stated, “Together, we can build a community where every individual has the chance to flourish in independence.”
