About Branching Tree

What is Branching Tree, and how did it get started?
We founded Branching Tree because we envisioned something different, a small, inclusive community where adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) can live meaningful, connected lives.

We incorporated on June 6, 2025, and soon after received our 501(c)(3) nonprofit status from the IRS. Our goal is simple but powerful: to create a home where residents can thrive, build friendships, and be fully included in their community.

Who founded Branching Tree, and what experience do you bring?
We are parents and professionals with decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, marketing, finance, and disability services, and two of us work directly in the disability field.

In just a few months, we’ve incorporated, received nonprofit status, purchased property, met with senior leadership at the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS), and begun collaborating with provider agencies. This progress reflects our experience, dedication, and commitment to building a sustainable, inclusive community grounded in belonging and respect.

Where did the idea for Branching Tree come from?
As parents, we wanted something beyond traditional group homes, a place where adults with IDD could live, build meaningful relationships, and enjoy everyday life alongside friends without disabilities.

Branching Tree blends the best parts of shared living with true community integration, creating a home where everyone is valued, supported, and connected.

Are there other communities like this in Massachusetts?
Yes. There are other life-sharing, inclusive community models in the state, such as High Spirit Community Farm. What makes Branching Tree unique is that we intentionally combine small-scale, family-led design with a focus on both inclusion and professional, person-centered supports.

Vision, Mission, and Community

What is your vision for Branching Tree?
We envision a small, sustainable, and welcoming community where adults with IDD can thrive alongside people without disabilities. Our first home will include three adults with IDD living alongside three adults without disabilities. Over time, we hope to expand thoughtfully, adding two more homes while keeping interdependence, respect, and belonging at the heart of everything we do.

Who is Branching Tree designed for?
Our community is designed for adults with IDD, age 22 and older, who receive DDS funding and are seeking a safe, inclusive home with meaningful support and social connections. We also welcome adults without disabilities who value friendship, shared living, and inclusion.

Where is Branching Tree located, and what is the community like?
We are located in Williamsburg, Massachusetts, in the beautiful Pioneer Valley, just 10 minutes from the vibrant town of Northampton. The area offers a peaceful, small-town setting surrounded by natural beauty, while still being close to recreational opportunities, cultural events, shopping, and services that support adults with IDD, including community programs, social groups, and vocational opportunities.

Our community is inclusive, welcoming, and inviting, creating a space where everyone can truly belong. People with and without disabilities build friendships, share daily life, and engage with neighbors. Residents enjoy the quiet charm of Williamsburg while benefiting from the resources, energy, and culture of Northampton, creating a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

Finances and Commitment

How did you purchase the property?
We purchased the property through generous contributions from our founding families, each investing over $100,000, along with a commercial loan personally guaranteed by the founders.

This structure reflects our personal commitment to Branching Tree’s success. Our long-term plan for sustainability includes a mix of state funding through DDS, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), donations, and grants. Transparency and accountability are central to everything we do.

How is Branching Tree funded long-term?
We plan to fund Branching Tree through a combination of DDS residential supports, community-based day services, modest resident contributions, along with grants and donations. Our approach balances sustainability with affordability and accessibility for families.

Do all families need to contribute financially?

Yes. All families participating in Branching Tree homes are asked to contribute to the launch of their home through personal contributions, grants, or fundraising. For our first home, founding families donated over $100K each to help establish the community. Future homes will also require some level of family financial participation through a direct donation or fundraising. Scholarships or financial assistance may be available to help ensure Branching Tree remains accessible to families of all income levels.

Who will own the house?
Branching Tree, Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation based in Massachusetts, owns the house, property, and any future development.

Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes! Branching Tree, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so your donation is fully tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Your support directly helps us build and sustain a safe, inclusive community where adults with and without disabilities can live, grow, and thrive together.

Residents and Eligibility

What makes Branching Tree different from other residential options?
We designed Branching Tree to combine interdependence, community, and supportive services in one home and small community. Unlike larger group homes or traditional shared living, our residents live in a home environment with both people with and without disabilities, participate in everyday community life, and have access to trained supports tailored to their needs.

How are residents selected or referred?
Families, provider agencies, or DDS can refer residents. We ensure each person is a good fit for the community based on compatibility, support needs, personal interests, and social engagement. Families are involved throughout the process.

How will my child’s needs be supported?
Each resident receives individualized, person-centered supports that are developed collaboratively with families, DDS, and provider agencies. Supports address daily living, social engagement, communication, and behavioral needs, helping each person thrive while fostering independence and belonging.

What if I change my mind?
We understand that committing to a new community is a significant decision, and it’s normal to have questions or uncertainties. While financial contributions are considered donations and families do not hold equity in the home, we aim to make the process fair and flexible. 

Are there other financial commitments?
Residents with IDD contribute up to 75% of their SSI toward housing. SNAP/EBT will cover groceries and household needs. Additional donations are voluntary.

What happens if Branching Tree doesn’t work out for my family member?
Our goal is for every person to thrive here, but we recognize that transitions sometimes don’t go as planned. If a placement isn’t the right fit, we work closely with families, DDS, and provider partners to ensure a smooth transition. The details of any refundable or non-refundable contributions are clearly explained before move-in.

Daily Life and Activities

What is daily life like at Branching Tree?
Life at Branching Tree is active, social, and inclusive. All residents share meals, enjoy personal interests and community activities, and make use of both private and shared spaces. We balance independence with support, giving residents the freedom to make choices while having help readily available when needed.

What will my child do during the day and on weekends?
Residents follow a structured yet flexible schedule designed to support independence, skill-building, and social connection. During the week, residents may participate in community-based day programs, volunteer opportunities, work experiences, personal interests, or recreational activities tailored to their interests and abilities, both on our 12.5-acre site and in the local community.

Weekends focus on community life, social engagement, and leisure, including shared meals, outings, and activities that encourage friendships and connection with others in the town. Throughout the week and weekend, our trained staff provide support as needed while allowing residents to make choices and enjoy independence.

What level of support is available for residents with higher needs?
We provide individualized support for residents with a wide range of needs. Each person’s services are guided by their Individual Support Plan (ISP), developed through collaboration with families, the DDS team, and other professionals. Supports may include assistance with daily living, health monitoring, behavioral supports, communication assistance, and help with social or recreational activities.

Our goal is to ensure each resident receives consistent, respectful, and empowering support while promoting independence and choice.

What are the expectations for parents?
We designed Branching Tree to foster a true community where residents with IDD and support staff live and work together. The householder and resident coworkers manage the day-to-day operation of the home and report to the Branching Tree Board.

Families are always welcome and valued, but staff at Branching Tree do not work for the families. Our structure ensures that the community functions smoothly, with clear processes for handling concerns and full compliance with all federal and state regulations.

Your role as a family member is one of partnership and support, helping to guide and celebrate your loved one’s independence and participation in the community.

Timeline and Growth

When will Branching Tree launch?
We plan to welcome our first residents in spring 2026. Leading up to the launch, we are carefully preparing the home, finalizing services and supports, and ensuring that staff, policies, and the community environment are fully ready. All staff will be fully trained according to Massachusetts DDS standards, as well as in person-centered approaches tailored to the needs, preferences, and goals of each individual with IDD. Our goal is to create a safe, welcoming, and well-supported home from day one so everyone can thrive.

Transition and Family Involvement

Can my child transition into Branching Tree gradually?
We understand that transitions can be challenging for both residents and families. While gradual introductions are supported, this is not a trial arrangement. Financial contributions are considered donations to Branching Tree. We encourage families to carefully consider their child’s needs and ensure this community is the right home for their loved one and family.

Future Growth

When will Branching Tree expand to additional homes?
Our first priority is ensuring the success of our initial home. Once it’s fully established and thriving, we plan to thoughtfully expand with two additional homes. Each new home will require about $300,000 in fundraising, mortgages, and planning.

With sufficient financial readiness, we hope to begin construction on a second, and possibly third, home as early as Fall 2028.