In 2007, with significant help from many – current and former board members, staff members, friends, family, Ambassador and Mrs. Ronal Weiser, and McKinley, Inc. – we made our new home at 3941 Research Park Drive in Ann Arbor. With the move, we more than doubled the size of our facility, going from 8,000 square feet at our previous location on Packard Road, to more than 16,000 space now at Research Park Drive. The move was a big step, and one that created a new foundation for an exciting future!
“Youth with disabilities now have a place to come, hang out, and socialize with peers. The benefits of bringing teens, who often feel isolated, together are tremendous. Youth who once were shy now flourish. The Gathering Place fosters a true sense of community among our youth members. This is a home and a place of meaning.” Anna Dusbiber, Coordinator of Youth Services and individual with cerebral palsy.
In moving, we created, “the Gathering Place.” A place where individuals with disabilities in our community can come to convene, be a part of something, and improve their quality of life. Now, the huge café-like kitchen and recreation area is where everyone comes to hang out. Our large conference rooms are where individuals come to take classes to advance their careers. Our Assistive Technology Lab is where individuals come to use the computers and try new pieces of technology to improve their lives. We also have a number of computer work stations to browse the computers and work on a project, a large warehouse for events, grounds for sports and recreation activities, and ample staff and volunteer work areas. Joining us in our Gathering Place is the local office of the Area Agency on Aging 1b.
“I’m not a vocal person, but I’ve become part of a community here. Instead of being home with my illness, I’ve made friends. The CIL is a community that understands and accepts me for who I am. No one here asks me why I use a cane.” Kathy Schoch, Ann Arbor CIL Consumer and individual with rheumatoid arthritis.
It’s in the Gathering Place where we come together to share our personal experience with disability, convene to do business, and proudly share our common disability history and culture. Here, lasting friendships are forged and true peer support emerges.