We are now operating the vocational part of the project in the shop building, have hired a house parent, irrigation for the vineyard is in place and here are the latest photos of the home:






































We are now operating the vocational part of the project in the shop building, have hired a house parent, irrigation for the vineyard is in place and here are the latest photos of the home:
Open House and Concert
Ridgeview Place: Home for Special Needs Adults
When: Sept 16, 2017 2:00 to 4:00 p.m
Where: 1101 Jessie St, Chelan, WA 98816
Join us for this introduction to the community, learn about the plans and meet the folks involved so far at Ridgeview.
Ridgeview Place is a just completed private residence that was built by Al and Denise Lorenz to be shared by their son, Turner, and three other resident owners with developmental disabilities in Chelan. However, the structure itself is just the beginning of the story; the meaning and purpose come from the people, the relationships, and the involvement of the community.
While we’re celebrating completion of the buildings, work continues on building a joyful environment that is nurturing, fun, and productive for its residents. As we go forward, we are building the systems to make each day go smoothly, hiring staff, and creating exceptional employment for the residents. Imagine individuals with developmental disabilities actually achieving financial security and having a “family” of close friends. I think of it as life without limits.
Similar homes exist in Washington. Examples include The Dwelling Place, Cornerstone and Tierra, all in Leavenworth, that have spread the “fantastically joyful” attitudes of their residents into the community through volunteering and work. Their joy is contagious and an asset for everybody.
We are currently seeking some new best friends who also want to create the happiest home on earth for their special family members. There are opportunities for caregivers and volunteers as well.
We will have some experts to chat with who have succeeded building homes in other communities. Ridgeview and the accompanying vocational program will be on display. There will also be a house concert of local musicians during the open house.
Jessie Street is new and will not show up on your mapping programs. Riverview Cemetery or the Apple Cup Café will show up on Google maps though!
For more information call or email:
Al Lorenz 509-630-6769 alorenz99@gmail.com
With construction mostly complete (there is still completion of the shop/office space, paving and landscaping to be done), the next phase of this project begins. To borrow from DisneyLand, that is simply to make this one of the Happiest Places in the World to live for the residents, caregivers involved and families who participate.
Fortunately, we have some great models on how that can be accomplished with the people we know from other projects. It is a process though, and one that matures and blooms as we get other families involved!
Building a fun living environment is quite a bit more involved than the construction has been and is a process that really never ends. But, it is lots of fun! Getting the community involved and our loved ones involved in the community is part of it. We have a great start on the vocational part too that helps our folks be actual contributing members of the economy to earn their way. Planning vacations, day trips, etc. and more!
If you have interest in this project, it is time to express it. Thanks!
Ridgeview is ready for occupancy, or it will be when outfitted with furniture and supplies. That is starting to happen now and the first folks will be living there in the next couple of weeks!
Here are some cell phone pics. I will add some better photos when there is furniture.
These photos certainly don’t do the place justice. If you want to have a look, I would love to show it to you.
The lower floor is now completely framed and sheeted. Floor joists should be complete tomorrow for the final level.
In this photo the framing crew is working away while a fire hydrant and water are being installed as well.
The fire hydrant!
Windows are being cut into the sheeting in this photo. Things like flooring, cabinet colors, counters, roofing and the selection of stone for use a few places are on the list to be completed soon, so they can be ordered in time to keep things moving along!
Here are a couple of photos from framing all the way back from Monday. The internal walls are probably about done now. Also, power and sewer connections have been brought on site. Next week, more framing and the extension of the water main, fire hydrant and water line.