Our Community
What are we creating?
Branching Tree is committed to providing inclusive housing and meaningful daily experiences for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, fostering independence, dignity, and well-being. We empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives through strong community connections and a true sense of belonging. Our vision centers on meaningful connection for every person.
Shared living with layered supports
At Branching Tree, we’re developing a small, fully inclusive residential community. The property will be situated on several acres of land with room to expand, plus shared indoor and outdoor spaces and access to nature. The community will start with approximately 6-7 individuals:
3 adults with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (IDD)
1-2 live-in Householder/s will manage the day-to-day operations and scheduling of each house
2 live-in Residential Co-workers will help in the home with daily living skills, assist with cooking, laundry, and day program support
The first priority of the live-in caregivers is to form meaningful relationships with the residents and provide caring companionship.
On-site and community-based day program
A person-centered onsite and Community Based Day Services program will be tailored to each person’s interests, strengths, and goals. This may include employment, volunteer work, creative activities, or other inclusive experiences within the community. Residential Co-workers will join residents in community programs and participate with on-site horticultural, arts, and social activities. The focus will be fostering meaningful daily engagement and supporting a life filled with purpose, connection, and participation, built on choice and contribution.
Person-centered onsite and community-based daytime programs
Layered supports for awake overnight and daytime activities
Agency-coordinated staff recruitment, hiring, and training
Agency-coordinated DDS billing, reporting, and compliance
Community partnerships fostering inclusive relationships for residents
Why is this model unique?
Branching Tree is not a group home. Each person has a private living space and the freedom to make choices about their daily life. Supports are tailored to the person and focus on fostering meaningful interdependence, encouraging mutual relationships and autonomy.
Branching Tree is intentionally small, but deeply connected to the broader community. Residents will take part in inclusive activities, volunteering, recreation, and social life based on their individual interests and strengths. They’ll live alongside and be supported by people without disabilities, who are equally committed to authentic belonging and an inclusive community life.
What role will families play?
Families will serve as co-creators of the Branching Tree vision. Their lived experiences ensure the community remains values-driven and responsive to real-life needs. Families are essential partners in upholding the mission of belonging, dignity, and meaningful connection.
How will this be funded?
Branching Tree families will share in the purchase the home(s) and land required to start the community. To fund day-to-day operations, support, and services for residents of the community, a combination of DDS, MassHealth, and Social Security funding, along with private donations and aligned partnerships, will be utilized. Our goal is provide long-term sustainability, prevent disruption to the community and its residents, and remain grounded in our mission and values.