A Model for the Future — Many Hands Lifesharing Community

Written by Many Hands staff

Last month, the first shovel of dirt symbolized more than just the start of construction—it marked the beginning of a new way of living, caring, and belonging for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in Michigan.

On September 26, Many Hands Lifesharing Community broke ground on its first residential neighborhood. Built on 94 acres just outside Dexter, the project will offer a transformative housing model for people with IDD—where residents live in family-style homes alongside trained caregivers – growing, cooking, creating, and sharing daily life together.

The groundbreaking followed a major milestone: a $2 million philanthropic gift that jump-started Phase I of the development. “This gift changed everything,” said founder and executive director Kerry Kafafian.

Phase I includes trails, gardens, a craft house, and the first two 12-bedroom homes. Each will house four adults with IDD, six live-in caregivers, and one house parent or family. These integrated households offer stability, companionship, and purpose in a way that traditional care models often struggle to provide.

The project’s scope is ambitious. Once complete, the Many Hands campus will include eight homes, a working farm, a community center with a bakery and café, and shared creative spaces. Ninety percent of the land will remain preserved or actively farmed, emphasizing environmental sustainability alongside social sustainability.

"This gift allows us to move from vision to reality—and to show families across Michigan that hope is more than an idea. It's being built."

In a state facing a serious direct care workforce shortage, the project’s innovative staffing model is also drawing attention. Caregivers will receive housing, salary, health benefits, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness, creating new pathways for service-minded professionals. For families of people with IDD, the stakes couldn’t be higher. “We hear the same heartbreaking question again and again: Who will care for my child when I can’t?” says Kafafian.

“Many Hands is our answer. It’s a place where people can grow old in community, with dignity and love.”

To learn more or support the mission, visit www.ManyHandsLC.org.