Launching a National Call to Action with the Colin Farrell Foundation

For adults with significant intellectual or developmental disabilities, the loss of school-based services around age 22 is a cliff that many families fearfully approach. As the safety net drops, community-based organizations are left building a patchwork in its place. Critical gaps persist in housing, health care, day programming, and inclusive employment across both public and private systems. Filling those gaps with the right resources and a strong community network is what makes a dignified transition to adulthood possible.

We served as lead consultant for the Colin Farrell Foundation's (CFF) inaugural 2025-2026 grant program based in Los Angeles -- a National Call to Action designed to strengthen supports for individuals and their families navigating these gaps across housing, programming and more. Recruited to oversee the full grant-making process, we acted as a liaison to both the board and an independent review committee. Our scope included a complete website overhaul ensuring accessibility compliance and alignment with the new program, along with the design and management of all applications, scoring metrics and evaluation criteria. We also provided technical assistance to applicant organizations throughout the cycle.

The independent review committee was composed entirely of volunteers with lived experience and expertise in program evaluation and disability services. In total, 236 applications were reviewed. Sixteen innovative agencies serving individuals with IDD and their families across the United States rose to the top, earning the highest aggregate scores for grants ranging from approximately $10,000 to $50,000 per award. Each was recognized for their creativity, measurable impact, and commitment to addressing critical service gaps within their state and region.

Photos in the gallery above were taken at the Inaugural CFF Family Gathering, celebrating our supporters and their families in March 2026 at Kidspace Pasadena, California.

From inclusive employment and integrated day programs to arts, recreation, accessible housing, and life-skills development, these organizations and social enterprises are building the very future that CFF exists to scale. By centering opportunity, independence, and lifelong belonging for the IDD community, their work transforms outcomes not only for individuals -- but for the parents and families who support them.

Learn more about each project and program below:

• 3 Bluebirds Farm, North Carolina — running a social enterprise providing life skills and inclusive employment for young adults with autism.

• A New Leaf, Oklahoma — fostering independence by building integrated housing and vocational services.

• Ability Center of Southern Nevada — operating an adaptive fitness center with sensory gym and training programs.

• Community Access to the Arts MA — amplifying voices by showcasing artists with disabilities through workshops and performances.

• Emory Valley Center TN — delivering early intervention and implementing new pathways to community independence.

• Equip Services, Alabama — expanding vocational training and increasing access with a wheelchair-accessible van.

• Golden Heart Ranch , California — cultivating skills and belonging through its “We Grow Together” gardening program.

• Independence Landing Inc, Florida — implementing a culinary workforce development program alongside residential opportunities for adults with IDD.

• Jacob’s Chance, Virginia — creating inclusive sports and social programs that build lasting connections.

• L’Arche Chicago IL— fostering belonging through intentional housing and nursing support.

• Many Hands Lifesharing Community MI — hosting day programs that blend farming, crafts, and community life.

• SNACK and Friends NY — piloting transitional housing and enrichment for youth with profound IDD.

• Sweetwater Spectrum, California — pioneering a residential housing model replicating inclusive community living.

• Tall Tales Ranch, Colorado — combining housing, employment, and storytelling into a unique community model.

• The Next Step Programs, Pennsylvania — guiding young adults into integrated housing and workforce pathways.

• Villa Esperanza Services, California — and in our backyard of Pasadena, offering education, speech, and community programs for individuals with IDD.

  
  

The collage above reflects the heart of the 2025-2026 awardees and the mission behind CFF’s National Call for Action: innovating disability housing and day programs at a time when programs are facing greater uncertainty in funding allocation and a loss in federal support.

CFF is proud to help strengthen a national safety net for individuals with IDD and their families, working to foster inclusive communities where everyone can thrive. 

Learn more about their grant program here:

https://colinfarrellfoundation.org/cff-innovation-grant-program/