Supported Housing Initiative

The need, the approach, and the partnerships

A practical model for creating more supported homes in our region.

The Housing Need

Across Northern Virginia, many adults with developmental disabilities are living with aging caregivers or in situations where long-term housing stability is uncertain. They face real challenges finding suitable homes in the community and need more choices beyond institutional or limited residential options. Our focus is increasing access to small, community-based homes across the region, where supports can be tailored to each resident.

Provider Partnerships

Providers are often working with individuals who are ready for supported living but can’t move forward without appropriate housing. In Fairfax County, 1,200+ Priority 1 individuals have urgent needs for services and supports, including housing—making provider-ready placements harder to secure. We partner with experienced service providers early to align operations, staffing, and resident fit so homes can open and remain stable over time.

We develop or secure residential properties and prepare them for supported living in partnership with providers. Each home is designed to be practical to operate—clear roles, realistic staffing needs, and a stable, residential setting where supports can be tailored to residents. We’re starting with 2–4 pilot homes to establish a repeatable approach, learn from implementation, and refine what works. The goal is a scalable model that can expand community-based housing options across Northern Virginia in the years to come.

Pilot Homes / Housing Units

Pilot Homes (2-4) in Northern Virginia

We’re developing our first 2–4 pilot homes with experienced disability service providers.

These homes will expand community-based options for adults with developmental disabilities and create a model for future development.

Together, we’re creating safe, stable homes where adults can live with dignity, greater independence, and reliable support.

We bring together housing development and provider partnerships to grow supported living options across the region.

About the Supported Housing Initiative

Our mission is to increase supported housing options for adults with developmental disabilities by developing small homes that are safe, sustainable, and rooted in the community.

Our Mission

Working With Providers

We work alongside experienced providers to design homes that match real support needs—so residents can thrive and providers can operate with clarity and stability.

How we bring homes online

From property selection to provider alignment, we focus on practical steps that make new supported housing possible.

Small Community Homes

Thoughtfully sized residences in typical neighborhoods—designed for stability, privacy, and belonging.

Housing Partnerships

Aligned roles between housing development and service delivery to support long-term success.

Meet the Founder

Supported Housing Initiative was founded by Sharon D. Gilbert, a Northern Virginia resident focused on expanding supported housing options through strong provider partnerships.

After more than eight years caring for her mother through dementia, Sharon saw how quickly families reach a point where safe, appropriate housing and reliable supports become urgent.

She started this initiative to collaborate with experienced service providers to develop small community homes that are practical to operate, stable over time, and centered on resident well-being.

Connect with Sharon on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sharondgilbert

Partner With Us

If you’re a disability service provider (or a community partner), send a message—our team will follow up to discuss pilot home opportunities.