"A home of one's own is an anchor to the community, a way to connect with neighbors and friends."

In 1999, Community Vision began responding to the homeownership deficit for people with developmental disabilities in Oregon. Since that time the agency has assisted numerous families and individuals to buy homes.

The demand within our community for home ownership continues. Telephone calls from individuals with disabilities who are seeking home ownership assistance are made to Community Vision daily. There are currently dozens of individuals and families seeking home ownership on the agency’s homeownership waiting list.

The target population for this homeownership project is adults with developmental disabilities who are first time homebuyers. Equal access is given to men and women with disabilities, in all ethnic groups, seeking assistance to purchase a home of their own.

This population has been identified as one of the most underserved populations in relation to homeownership and the housing industry as a whole. This finding is based on research conducted by Fannie Mae in conjunction with the National Home of Your Own Alliance. The research indicates that less than thirty percent of individuals with disabilities are homeowners compared to a national average for home ownership of sixty-five percent. The ongoing Homeownership Independence Project will significantly reduce the homeownership deficit for people with disabilities in Oregon.

Our organization is currently working with builders to ensure that homes built for families with disabilities meet the accessibility specifications as identified in the Americans with Disabilities Act and will be tailored to meet individual accessibility needs of families and individuals.

In addition, we ask qualified contractors to assist with accessibility modifications as needed when an individual purchases a home. Community Vision will provide pre-qualification for prospective homebuyers and post purchase follow-up to borrowers. The project will demonstrate that home ownership and personalized supports can be achieved for people with disabilities who have a limited income.