Independence.
It’s something that far too many of us take for granted, particularly as adults: The ability to have our own space and privacy; to choose our own décor; to pick what we make (or order) for dinner.
Many adults with disabilities would like to have that kind of independence, but because they still require some level of assistance, they are often left with few choices. Many still live with family members, such as parents; some live in assisted living facilities or nursing homes, which tend to be geared toward senior citizens.
But for a young adult (and by “young,” we mean “not old enough to retire”), none of the above are particularly appealing. (No matter how much one may love their family.)
That’s what could make PACE Place a game-changer for adults with disabilities living in the Morgantown area.
The proposed residential facility is slated to take over PACE’s original building in Star City (the one it outgrew years ago) to become a roughly 9,000-square-foot, 12-unit independent living facility built to accommodate individuals overcoming disabilities.
Right now, PACE Place is a dream, but one that has a plan to become reality. PACE Director of Marketing and Development Joe Lefkay recently told The Dominion Post that PACE Enterprises is applying for a federal grant to offset the $2.5 million expected cost.
We hope PACE gets its grant and more besides, because there are so few facilities in the area (and in general) designed for young adults with disabilities. They deserve the opportunity to experience the kind of independence so many of us take for granted while still receiving the services and accommodations they need.
