Ann's Nest Raises Over $350,000
Seeks Land to Build First Home for Adults with Disabilities
Harbor Springs, MI — For families in Emmet and Charlevoix Counties, the question of where adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) will live in the future can feel overwhelming. Many still live with aging parents. Others move hours away, separated from the friends, family, and communities they love.
Ann's Nest, a local nonprofit, believes our community can do better.
"This mission is close to our hearts but also incredibly important for families in northern Michigan," said Paul Matthews, Co-Founder of Ann's Nest. "Too many adults with IDD don't have safe and stable housing options nearby. We want to change that."
According to the Arc Michigan, more than 13,000 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are on waiting lists for residential services in Michigan, with some waiting years for appropriate housing options. This shortage forces many families to make difficult choices about their loved ones' futures.
Ann's Nest's mission is to create a living environment of love, friendship, and belonging. Their vision is a vibrant campus where adults with IDD thrive with independence, dignity, and connection — and where families find peace of mind.
So far, Ann's Nest has raised more than $300,000 toward that dream. The next step is finding the right piece of land in the Harbor Springs–Petoskey area to build their first home. The group has toured several properties, including one in Charlevoix, but nothing has been the right fit.
Ideally, the property would be 7–10 acres, with space for several homes, an activity center, and walking trails — and close enough to town so residents can stay connected to everyday community life.
The organization is also working on a video to showcase the critical need for this type of supportive housing in northern Michigan. The short video will feature local families sharing their stories and hopes for the future.
Ann's Nest is actively seeking partners, donors, and people with creative ideas about development or property who want to help bring this project to life. The organization is inviting the community to help spread the word — and help find the land that will become a place of dignity, comfort, and belonging for generations to come.
About Ann's Nest: Ann's Nest is a nonprofit organization based in Emmet and Charlevoix Counties, creating safe, supportive housing for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Guided by faith, the organization strives to cultivate love, dignity, friendship, and belonging. The organization was inspired by the boundless affection that local resident Ann Vala had for her son, and her deep commitment continues to shape the organization's vision.
Why It Matters: Hundreds of adults with IDD in Emmet and Charlevoix Counties need affordable, safe housing. Many currently live with aging parents or must move hours away from friends and family to find appropriate care. Ann's Nest believes our community can do better by keeping families together and connected to their home communities.
How to Help:
Land: If you know of a suitable parcel of land (7–10 acres) in the Harbor Springs/Petoskey area, please reach out.
Partnership: Ann's Nest welcomes creative ideas about development, property, and community partnerships.
Donations: Contributions of any size help purchase land and build homes where adults with IDD can thrive.
For more information, to partner, volunteer, or donate, visit www.annsnest.org or email annsnest49740@gmail.com .
