Sunflower Hill codevelops affordable housing communities and delivers innovative programming that allows adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to live, work, learn, and thrive as part of the greater community. The nonprofit's first development was built in Pleasanton and completed in September 2020. Sunflower Hill at Irby Ranch offers 30 private units for people with I/DD, including autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and epilepsy. 

"We get calls daily from parents desperate to find housing and activities for their adult children who have aged out of the public school system," says Operations Director Jennifer Oxe. "Individuals with I/DD represent overlooked population groups concerning living options, job opportunities, and activities. We must all work together to solicit and implement programs and housing that address the diverse needs of this population, as programs and activities are significantly reduced once a person turns twenty-one years old."

Irby Ranch apartments are rented to low-income residents at below market rates. Individuals with developmental disabilities are considered low income, with most of them living on Supplemental Security Income or with assistance from family, if available. Irby Ranch was the first independent, affordable residential community for people with I/DD in the Tri-Valley area. It will not be the last, however.

The nonprofit is working with a variety of partners to codevelop three new East Bay communities for its clients. When completed, a project in Lafayette will contain 38 affordable rental units for people with I/DD within a larger housing development. In Dublin, a proposed 77-unit development called Francis Ranch sets aside an estimated 22 homes as affordable rental units for people with I/DD. In Dublin, the proposed Sunflower Hill at Grace Pointe project will provide approximately 60 affordable one- two- and three-bedroom units on an estimated 1.83 acres. 

After these projects are finished, the nonprofit will have 150 affording housing units, "enabling us to serve a more significant number of adults with disabilities in the Bay Area and beyond," notes Oxe. Affordable housing is critically important for adults with I/DD seeking to build independent lives. They also need other forms of support, which Sunflower Hill provides in abundance.

"We continue to provide enriching educational, vocational, and community-building programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities," says Oxe. "Our Hands-On Garden Program and engaging classes at Irby Ranch have flourished, allowing adults with I/DD to connect and develop essential life skills. Together, we're cultivating a sense of belonging and empowerment."

In 2023, the nonprofit served more than 200 adults. As part of its Sunflower Hill Hands-On Garden Program, it donated over 90% of the garden's organic produce. More than 2,500 pounds of produce was given to fellow nonprofits Open Heart Kitchen, Tri-Valley Haven, Shepherd's Gate, and Culinary Angels to be shared with Tri-Valley residents.  

"Together, we're nourishing the community while making a positive impact, helping neighbors with food insecurity and those going through serious medical issues," notes Oxe. "In addition, our participants have been spreading joy through our new community flower donation program, creating thirty beautiful bouquets each week for Hope Hospice and Heritage Estates Living, bringing smiles to those in need."

Last May, Sunflower Hill received the prestigious Juanita Haugen Community of Character Award. This recognition was a testament to the dedication and passion of the founder, volunteers, staff, and supporters who work to provide spaces and places where adults with I/DD can thrive in the community. There are several ways to support that work. They include volunteering and making donations.  

Another way to support the nonprofit is by attending or sponsoring Sunflower Hill's largest fundraiser. The Enchanted Garden Gala will be held on September 21, 2024 at the Blackhawk Museum in Danville. Early-bird ticket prices for the event will be sold until August 1. Custom sponsorship packages are also available. 

For more information about Sunflower Hill, please visit sunflowerhill.org.

To buy tickets to the Enchanted Garden Gala, please visit https://sunflowerhill.org/get-involved/events.