Rising-Heights

Celebrate Who They Are Right Now: A Parent's Guide to Milestones That Actually Matter for Teens With IDD

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 16:59:19 GMT

Know what’s weird? Day by day, nothing seems to change, but pretty soon…everything’s different. — Calvin from Calvin and Hobbe s

Nobody warns you that the milestones stop looking familiar.

When your child is young, the markers are everywhere — first steps, first words, first day of kindergarten. Friends celebrate with you. Teachers send home notes. The world is set up to notice these moments and hold them up.

Then your child hits middle school. Then high school. And the milestones your son or daughter is hitting every single day — the real ones, the hard-won ones — often go uncelebrated. Not because they don't matter. Because most people aren't looking for them in the right places.

At Rising Heights, we believe the teen and young adult years are some of the most important in the life of a person with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) — and in the life of their family. These are the years when identity starts to form, when preferences become clear, when the shape of a person's future starts to come into view.

This March, for National IDD Awareness Month, we want to say something directly to parents of teens with IDD: your child is achieving things right now that deserve to be seen, named, and celebrated. And we want to help you do that — while also helping you look ahead with a little more clarity and a little less fear.

Why the Teen Years Matter More Than We Talk About

There's an uncomfortable truth in the IDD community that most families learn too late: the window between ages 14 and 22 is one of the most consequential stretches of a person's life, and most families spend it in reactive mode rather than planning mode.

By age 14, an IEP (IPP in Canada, EHCP in the UK, ILP in Australia etc.) should begin including formal "transition goals" — plans for what education, work, housing, and daily living will look like after school services end. Most families don't know this. Many who do know it still don't know what it means in practice. It often gets buried in the paperwork as a checkbox, not a conversation.

By 18 - 22 years, legal guardianship decisions have to be made. SSI eligibility shifts. Medical decisions change hands. The support structures that felt permanent suddenly have expiration dates that nobody mentioned when you were celebrating the good news of your child's progress.

By 22, school services end entirely in the US — what families often call "the cliff." The supports your child has relied on, the familiar staff, the structure of the school day, the therapists, the routine — all of it stops at once. For many families, it's the hardest transition they've ever faced.

We're not sharing this to frighten you. We're sharing it because the families who navigate this transition best are the ones who started thinking about it early. And the best place to start is not with fear — it's with celebration.

Milestones That Actually Matter — and How to Recognize Them

The milestones your teen with IDD is hitting right now are not lesser versions of typical adolescent milestones. They are their own category — more specific, more hard-fought, and in many cases more meaningful. The challenge is learning to see them for what they are.

Here are some of the ones we think deserve your full attention this month and every month:

➔ Self-advocacy, even small. When your teenager tells a teacher what they need, asks for help without being prompted, or says "I don't like that" and holds their ground — that is a milestone. It is one of the most critical skills for adult independence. Notice it. Name it out loud to them.

➔ A preference that becomes a passion. Maybe it's a specific music artist they follow obsessively. A YouTube channel they watch every single day. A type of task or project they pursue with focus and joy. These aren't just hobbies. They're identity. They're also potential pathways to meaningful employment, community connection, and lasting joy. Write them down.

➔ A relationship they've built themselves. A friendship at school. A favorite staff person they seek out. A connection with a neighbor or grandparent they have chosen to nurture. The ability to form and maintain relationships is one of the clearest predictors of quality of life in adulthood. If your teen is doing this, even imperfectly, it matters enormously.

➔ Functional independence, even in one area. Making their own breakfast without being reminded. Navigating a familiar route to a familiar place. Completing a household task from start to finish without a prompt. Each of these is a building block for adult life. They often happen quietly, without announcement. Celebrate the ones that show up.

➔ Emotional regulation progress. If your teenager handled something hard this year — a transition, a disappointment, a big and overwhelming feeling — better than they did last year, that is real and significant growth. It often goes unnamed because it's invisible from the outside. Name it anyway. "I saw how you handled that. You've come a long way."

How to Celebrate in Ways That Build Toward the Future

Celebrating your teen isn't just good for them emotionally — it's also one of the most practical things you can do to support their development. Recognition builds identity, and identity is what carries people forward into adulthood. Here's how to make your celebration count for both today and tomorrow.

➔ Keep a milestone journal. Not a formal document — just a note on your phone or a small notebook where you write down the wins, big and small, as they happen. This becomes invaluable later when you're filling out adult services applications, talking to new providers, or helping your child build a portfolio for employment. The details you capture now are the story they'll tell later.

➔ Let them know you see it — specifically. Tell your teenager, in detail, exactly what you noticed. Not just "I'm proud of you." Try: "I saw you tell the cashier what you wanted yourself today, without me jumping in. That was you doing something hard. I noticed." Specific recognition builds a specific sense of self.

➔ Connect the milestone to what comes next. When your teen does something that points toward adult capability, say it out loud: "The way you figured that out is exactly the kind of thinking you'll need when you're living more on your own." You are not just celebrating a moment — you are building a mental map of possibility.

➔ Involve your community. If you're part of a faith community, a neighborhood, or a network of families, let people celebrate with you. One of the loneliest parts of parenting a child with IDD can be the sense that your family's wins go unwitnessed by the people around you. Let people in. Let them see your child.

A Word to Families Approaching the Transition Years

If your child is between the ages of 14 and 22, some part of you is probably already aware that something big is coming. The shift from school-based services to the adult IDD service world is real, and it is hard. We won't minimize that, because the families we talk to deserve honesty more than they need reassurance.

What we will tell you is this: the families who come through it best are the ones who started building — community, plans, relationships, a shared vision of what adult life could look like — before the deadline arrived. Not because they had everything figured out. But because they were moving toward something, and they weren't moving alone.

At Rising Heights, we're building a community designed specifically for adults with IDD and their families: affordable, inclusive co-housing right here in Northeast Ohio where people with and without disabilities live as neighbors, not as residents in a program. Housing, care, work, and joy, all designed to work together. It's the model that families across the country have been searching for — and we're committed to bringing it to Cleveland.

We're not finished building yet. But families who want to be part of what we're creating can join our interest list now — at any age, at any stage. The earlier you're connected to us, the more we can walk this road with you. And that connection starts with a conversation.

This Month, Celebrate What Is True Right Now

Your teenager with IDD is not a future version of themselves still being assembled. They are a full person, right now, today — hitting real milestones, building real skills, forming a real and specific identity that belongs entirely to them.

This March, for IDD Awareness Month, we invite you to do one simple thing: find one milestone your child has hit in the last year that didn't get the recognition it deserved — and celebrate it. Tell them what you saw. Write it down. Share it with someone who loves them.

The future is coming. Planning for it matters deeply. But so does the life your child is living today.

Want to stay connected as we build something new in Cleveland? Sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of this page, or reach out directly at askme@risingheights.org . We'd love to hear your family's story — and we'd be honored to be part of it.

A parents reality about their IDD Child's Future

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 17:59:36 GMT

This Post was originally posted on SteppingStoneCommunities.org on November 15, 2018

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And the tears still come…

I’m not much of a crier. But when I tell our story, it is hard to hold back the tears. The problem is overwhelming. Literally, thousands of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are facing an uncertain future – on in which they will find themselves completely alone.

Our story? In Colorado alone, over 10,000 adults with disabilities are living with family caretakers who are over 60 years old. Our local communities are simply not ready for this tsunami of need that is heading our way.

Thanks to medical advancements, people with disabilities are living longer… and that is good news. But what happens when their families are no longer there to care for them?

The current options are not pretty. Institutional settings are not appropriate for these adults. Even host homes (think: “adult foster care”) are too restrictive for many. And worse, these government options are not available to most – there is a waiting list in the thousands for funding for residential assistance.

The most recent Colorado Legislature identified as many as 2,800 individuals who need housing assistance immediately. The response: funding for 300 people. While this is better than nothing, it clearly is not going to put a dent in the enormous need.

Complicating the situation is today’s housing market. Even people without disabilities are struggling to afford apartments in today’s market. Average rent is $1400 for a one-bedroom apartment. So what are the chances for someone who must live on a $750 disability check?

Living in an “affordable” apartment complex with a roommate just does not provide the protection they need. Even the highest functioning of adults with IDD are vulnerable to exploitation of all kinds. Someone has to be loving and watching and caring.

For all of these reasons and more, it is vital that we build the 60-unit apartment building and hopefully more buildings like it going forward. These buildings will be homes – a place to belong. Sharing the building with non-disabled adults and together managing their own place – this will truly be a safe and nurturing community.

I have probably told this story several hundred times – to friends, family, large groups and the cashier at the grocery store. Some people’s eyes glaze over – but the vast majority here, learn and open their hearts.

As many times as I have told this story, I still get a lump in my throat and then come to tears – tears of love and of gratitude for everyone who is supporting this endeavor and who will join in our efforts over the next weeks and years.

Source - https://www.trailheadcommunity.org/blog/parents-reality

Unlocking Affordable Living in Cleveland's Glenville: A Closer Look at The Davis Community

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 00:38:20 GMT

Unlocking Affordable Living in Cleveland's Glenville: A Closer Look at The Davis Community

Cleveland's Glenville neighborhood recently celebrated the grand opening of The Davis, a pioneering affordable housing community designed to offer much more than a roof over the heads of its residents. This 52-unit marvel is not just a place to live but a beacon of hope and a testament to what community-centric development can achieve.

A New Chapter for Glenville

The Davis marks a significant milestone in the Glenville area, symbolizing progress and renewal. Beyond providing affordable housing, it aims to be a cornerstone for the community, offering a plethora of resources aimed at enriching the lives of its inhabitants, particularly students, by fostering an environment conducive to success and well-being.

Health and Wellness at the Forefront

Addressing the stark disparities in life expectancy within the region, The Davis has integrated a University Hospital Community Wellness Center into its framework. This initiative is a bold step towards bridging the health divide, offering residents access to healthy food options, educational resources, and a suite of wellness services. It's a holistic approach to health care, aimed at nurturing not just the body but the community spirit as well.

Cultivating Community Through Engagement

The Davis doesn't stop at health; it actively engages its residents through practical life skills sessions, like cooking demonstrations, underscoring the importance of healthy eating and living. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to empower residents, providing them with the tools they need to thrive in every aspect of their lives.

Sparking Economic and Social Revitalization

The introduction of The Davis is seen as a catalyst for further economic development within Glenville. By attracting additional services like drugstores and grocery stores, it aims to create a dense, vibrant community space. This development is not just about building apartments; it's about creating a sense of place that resonates with the neighborhood's identity and aspirations.

A Model of Modern Community Development

The Davis stands as a shining example of what modern community development can look like. It’s not just about addressing immediate housing needs but about envisioning a future where every resident has the opportunity to lead a healthy, prosperous life. This project illustrates the powerful impact of collaborative efforts and shared goals, uniting a community towards a common vision of growth and prosperity.

As The Davis flourishes, it will undoubtedly inspire similar initiatives, not just in Cleveland but across the nation, demonstrating that with the right blend of vision, commitment, and community engagement, positive change is within reach. Glenville's journey is just beginning, and The Davis is leading the way towards a brighter, more inclusive future.

Celebrating Community Transformation: The New Dawn of Affordable Housing in Cleveland's Buckeye-Woodhill

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 00:38:20 GMT

Celebrating Community Transformation: The New Dawn of Affordable Housing in Cleveland's Buckeye-Woodhill

The revitalization journey of Cleveland's Buckeye-Woodhill neighborhood reached a significant milestone with the grand opening of a groundbreaking affordable housing development. This marks the completion of phase one of the Woodhill Homes transformation, a project that is not only reshaping the skyline but also the lives of its community members.

A Beacon of Hope and Renewal

In a neighborhood craving rejuvenation, an empty lot has been ingeniously transformed into a living and community space that promises more than just affordable housing. The development comprises 120 units designed to provide safe, accessible, and affordable living options for families and individuals, breathing new life into the area and igniting hope among its residents.

A $46 Million Investment in Community

With a hefty investment of $46 million, the project underscores a significant commitment to tackling the affordable housing crisis in Cleveland and revitalizing the Buckeye-Woodhill area. This development is not just about constructing buildings; it's about building a community and fostering a sense of belonging and pride among its residents.

Phase One: The Foundation for a Brighter Future

The completion of phase one of the Woodhill Homes transformation represents a foundational step toward a brighter future for the neighborhood. It sets the stage for further development and revitalization efforts, signaling a strong start to an ambitious project aimed at transforming the area into a thriving, vibrant community hub.

A Model for Urban Revitalization

The Woodhill Homes project serves as a beacon for urban revitalization efforts, demonstrating the impact of thoughtful, community-focused development. By converting underutilized spaces into valuable community assets, the project illustrates how cities can address affordable housing needs while fostering community growth and development.

As city leaders celebrate this grand opening, the Buckeye-Woodhillneighborhood stands on the brink of a new era. With phase one complete, the community looks forward with anticipation to the continued transformation and the promise of a revitalized, vibrant neighborhood that all its residents can be proud to call home.

A New Dawn in Cleveland's Fairfax Neighborhood: Affordable Housing Takes Center Stage

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 00:38:20 GMT

A New Dawn in Cleveland's Fairfax Neighborhood: Affordable Housing Takes Center Stage

In the heart of Cleveland's Fairfax neighborhood, a transformative project is unfolding, bringing much-needed affordable housing to the forefront. The recent opening of a new apartment building marks a significant milestone in the city's efforts to address the ongoing struggle for affordable living spaces. This initiative not only opens doors to homes for those who may not afford it but also revitalizes the community spirit, embodying a beacon of hope and inclusivity.

Celebrating Community and Accessibility

The launch of this project was commemorated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by community leaders and residents alike, including Steven Hernandez, who witnessed the unveiling of this pivotal development. The project comprises 80 studio, one, and two-bedroom units, with a substantial portion dedicated to affordable housing, aiming to cater to a diverse demographic, particularly those who have a longstanding connection to the area.

This initiative stands as a proud testament to Fairfax's enduring neighborhood ethos, striving to maintain its rich heritage while adapting to the contemporary needs of its residents. The focus is not just on building homes but on fostering a community that thrives on pride, resilience, and mutual support.

Forward-Looking: Phases of Progress and Inclusion

The project is poised to enter its next phase, further expanding its reach and impact within the community. This upcoming phase underscores a broader vision of equity, inclusion, and justice, aiming to provide a lifeline to those living alone or facing mobility challenges. It speaks volumes about Cleveland's commitment to not just meeting the immediate housing needs but ensuring long-term sustainability and accessibility for all its citizens.

A Blueprint for the Future

As Cleveland stands on the cusp of a new era in affordable housing, the leaders' vision for spreading such initiatives across the city is both ambitious and inspiring. The goal is to create a mosaic of inclusive, equitable, and accessible living spaces that span every corner of this great city. This endeavor is more than just about erecting buildings; it's about laying the foundation for a community that embodies the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The Fairfax affordable housing project is a clarion call to action, urging us to reimagine urban development in ways that prioritize people and their well-being. It serves as a blueprint for future efforts, not only within Cleveland but as a model for cities nationwide grappling with similar challenges. As we look ahead, the promise of a more inclusive, equitable, and vibrant community landscape in Cleveland shines brightly, a beacon of hope for a brighter, more inclusive future.

Neuro-Inclusive Housing: The New Paradigm Transforming Lives

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 19:13:00 GMT

As dawn breaks and cities buzz into life, homes light up one by one. But, for many with I/DD (Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities), this basic human right remains an elusive dream. The prospect of finding a comfortable, safe home remains a challenge. What if there was a breakthrough in housing that not only addressed this need but did so by celebrating neurodiversity?

The Awakening: Why Traditional Housing Fails I/DD Adults

For countless parents, caregivers, and families, the ordeal isn’t just about finding any house - it’s about discovering a home where their loved ones can feel accepted, safe, and empowered. With their one-size-fits-all approach, traditional housing developments often overlook the unique needs and potential of adults with I/DD.

Can you recall the moment you felt most at home? How would you feel if that comfort, that feeling of belonging, was perpetually out of reach?

The Neuro-Inclusive Housing Revolution

Enter neuro-inclusive housing - an innovative and holistic solution to the housing crisis adults with I/DD face. Here’s what makes it a game-changer:

Why This Matters to You

Imagine a community where differences aren’t just tolerated but celebrated. Where every individual, regardless of their neurological makeup, has the opportunity to thrive. As a parent, family member, or caregiver, consider the peace of mind that comes with knowing your loved one is not just housed but truly at home.

Share your thoughts, insights, and personal stories in the comments below. Let’s spark a conversation!

Bringing the Future Home

This isn’t just the future of housing for I/DD adults – it’s the future of community living. A paradigm where every home is more than just four walls; it’s a sanctuary of understanding, growth, and acceptance. With neuro-inclusive housing, we're not just building homes but redefining the essence of community.

Your Invitation to Dive Deeper

To truly understand the transformative power of neuro-inclusive housing, words might not suffice. We invite you to witness the change, hear the stories, and envision the future.

Experience the Neuro-Inclusive Housing Webinar Replay Now

Together, we can craft a world where every individual finds their place, where neurodiversity isn’t just acknowledged but celebrated. Join us on this transformative journey.

September 26th Neuro-Inclusive Housing Launch Video

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 17:12:00 GMT

The People in the Arena

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 13:00:00 GMT

Wow - my first blog for Front Porch – I’m excited and thrilled to be able to share some of my thoughts with you!

The Battle for Disability Staffing Funds

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 13:00:00 GMT

By Howard Kuritzky

The Importance of Inclusive Cohousing in Independent Living

Tue, 04 Jul 2023 15:59:00 GMT

As we celebrate the 4th of July and our freedoms in America, let’s not forget that there are still segments of our population who do not have the same opportunities for independence and living on their own. Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities face a housing crisis, with limited affordable and attainable options for independent living. Front Porch Cohousing is proud to be leading the way in developing the first-of-its-kind inclusive cohousing communities, providing much-needed housing and independence to those who need it most.

Neuro-Inclusive Cohousing – what it is, and why it’s become popular

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 17:48:00 GMT

Neuro-inclusive cohousing consists of intentional communities that are designed to support and accommodate people with a wide range of neurological differences, such as autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, Tourette syndrome, ADHD, and other developmental disabilities. These communities provide safe spaces for individuals who may have difficulty navigating traditional living environments due to their unique neurology and specific needs. By creating supportive structures within these communities, members can benefit from shared resources while still having access to the autonomy needed for personal growth. Neuro-inclusive cohousing has grown in popularity among those seeking a more inclusive lifestyle or looking for social opportunities tailored to their specific needs.

Barriers in Inclusive Housing - Front Porch Cohousing by NDL

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 11:44:00 GMT

Locked Out: The Barriers Facing Neurodivergent Adults in their Search for Housing in Pennsylvania

Chapter I: The Definition of Neurodivergence and Intellectual Developmental Disabilities

Neurodivergence refers to the idea that there is a wide range of brain types and that individuals who think or process information differently are valuable and should be celebrated. This term is often used to describe individuals with conditions classified as neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism, Down syndrome, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Why Gratitude Makes All the Difference - Front Porch Cohousing

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 11:57:00 GMT

How many times have you gone through the motions of your day without really paying attention to what’s happening around you? We’ve all been there. We’re so wrapped up in our own thoughts and concerns that we don’t take the time to notice the numerous small blessings that fill our lives. However, what if we did take the time to notice and appreciate those simple things? Would it make a difference?

Finding Good Charities to Donate to in Pennsylvania

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 10:54:00 GMT

If you’re wondering “how to find charities near me,” you have plenty of options. Pennsylvania has more than 13,000 registered charities, many of them located in Southeastern PA. As you plan your charitable giving for 2023 and beyond, it’s important to choose organizations that match your giving goals. Here are a few reasons to give, along with a profile of Front Porch Cohousing, one of many good charities to donate to in the Keystone State.

Help Us Provide Housing for Autistic Adults - FPC

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 18:27:00 GMT

It’s only natural for parents to worry about their children’s future. However, for parents of children with disabilities, including those with autism, that concern can be acute. What will happen to them if and when their parents are no longer able to care for them. That’s a need that we are seeking to fill at Front Porch Cohousing.