Trailhead Provides More than Just Housing: How one couple’s dream became a diverse community 

Trailhead Community in Littleton emphasizes the importance of housing access and independence for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The area’s first-of-its-kind housing project encourages “A Community of good neighbors” with the opportunity for residents to build independence and connections.

Trailhead Community’s journey was not an easy one. The team had no federal funding or county money; they were continuously turned down or had partners back out at the last minute. Despite the obstacles they faced, they pushed through and broke ground in August 2022.

Construction ended, and the building opened at the end of 2024 with 83 independent living units. Half are allocated for individuals with developmental disabilities, and the others for full-time professionals and seniors. It has 24/7 staffing and a long list of amenities, including a community kitchen and communal dining room, to facilitate social gatherings. A sports court, a theatre, and a craft room are just a few of the features available to residents.

Just a few weeks after its opening, the team began to see shifts in the way the community was working together. They watched their residents take ownership of the building, just as they had hoped. 

“Our focus is helping our residents find that independence and empowering them to know that they are able to do this. I think that message is one that’s not commonly talked about – that many, many, many of our individuals with disabilities have the ability to live independently, successfully, and flourish,” Executive Director Jeans Mobley said. 

Trailhead Community could not have come to fruition without its beloved founder, Barb Ziegler, who dedicated her life to serving her community. She was described as a “visionary” who began her career as a teacher and started a charter school before co-founding Stepping Stone Support Center – an organization offering employment services, life skills training, and more to adults with developmental disabilities. 

When Ziegler’s husband suddenly passed away, she was left as the sole caretaker of her daughter Lexi, who has a disability. She wanted to ensure Lexi would have somewhere stable to live as they both grew older. A week later, Ziegler met with the Stepping Stone team and a group of parents to discuss what would later become Trailhead Community.  

Ziegler passed away following a lengthy health battle on October 21st, 2024. Her decade-long dream welcomed its first residents shortly after. Her spirit is embedded into the community with a team that exudes the same unwavering passion and dedication she did.

With love filling her voice, Worbley said, “In her lack of self-serving ways, [Ziegler] did not take enough credit for this project.” 

“She was the heart and soul of this project. I think it’s important to call out that she has a thread throughout this entire project,” Co-Board President Ken Wilkinson added. 

Trailhead Community is the first of its kind in the area and has already begun making waves. They have connected with families globally and spoken to people from France, India, and more. The team’s passion for supporting the community is only growing as the development does too.

As for the future of Trailhead Community, Wilkinson said, “One of the things I’m most excited about is to see how the multigenerational community comes together when we have neurotypical people and active seniors along with the IDD community come in and integrate, build community, and cross. I think it’s such a beautiful connection that I hope to see get replicated elsewhere.” 

Even with the rapid growth that they have had so far, the team made it clear that their work is far from over. They are actively trying to build resources and partnerships to expand accessibility to housing. 

Mobley reflected on their mission as a whole, saying, “There is a need for communities like this to be successful so that we can continue to build upon this and build upon being accommodating for more levels of care needs.” 

A strong support system is vital for projects like this to thrive. There are several ways to contribute to the cause, most of which are on their website. They are celebrating their milestones with a Grand Opening Gala on April 10th.

Trailhead Community is a testament to the power of perseverance and compassion. Barb Ziebler’s legacy will continue to shine and inspire future projects. The residence opening its doors is just one of its numerous milestones, and there are many more to come.

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