Randy's House

When Marty and Randy Owens were given the idea for a home for handicapped young adults almost two years ago, they had no idea to what extent this conception would take them and the ones who eventually became involved with the project. As Randy stated, “When Our Neighbor took shape in our hearts, we planned on one house.” It didn’t take long for mother and son to discover the deep desire of so many families to find a place such as Randy’s House for their own children. For these homes are a double blessing – not only do they give the residents independence, but their families can have peace in their hearts knowing their adult children will have more meaningful lives. Our goal is to have a community where people do not notice a person’s disability but embrace a person for who they are. We know losing a part of our physical body does not change who we are, except maybe to give us a bigger heart. Also, we wish to duplicate what we are doing in each community in the state, so that people who have disabilities can live wherever they would like – near family and friends or in an entirely new community.

Resident, Jason Hare

What life was like before Our Neighbor, I stayed home all day with a caregiver while my mom and dad worked. We would go places on weekends; during the week was a little boring.

Living in Randy’s House, I like having my freedom, plus I love the idea of an all guys house. It’s like having brothers. On Sundays we go to church together. I have met so many new people by living at the house. My favorite things at Randy’s house is, we go out and have group activities and play power soccer.

The desires and goals I have is to meet more people with disabilities such as mine. Accomplishments since becoming a resident, I have been working at Books ‘n Beans, learning how to categorize the books, pricing books, and placing them on the shelves. This also gives me a little spending money. I hope we’ll have a place for the bookstore real soon.

Resident, Mike Reno

The picture at left depicts an original painting by resident Mike Reno. The painting was displayed at our 2009 Banquet/Auction, and was purchased by Jim Syfan who donated it to Randy’s House. Such generosity is exciting and much appreciated. Congratulations, Mike, on a great painting for a great cause

Becoming A Resident

• Physical disability - you need some assistance with daily life tasks, but do not require full-time personal care
• Free from chronic medical problems requiring nursing care
• At least 18 to 40 years of age
• Free of drugs, alcohol or psychological problems that prevent being an effective member of "the neighborhood"
• Have the ability to meet monthly financial obligations required for residency
• Have the ability to perform the activities of daily living (feeding, toilet, dressing and ambulating) with minimal assistance
• Have demonstrated appropriate behavior that will contribute in a positive manner and not present potential risk to the individual or other residents
• Wish to build an independent lifestyle, taking advantage of the opportunity to be employed, receive training, or attend school
• Wish to live with others and are prepared to support and assist in the maintenance of the home
• Continued residency in the home is contingent upon maintenance of the requirements for entry, and upon compliance with whatever residential policies may be adopted. Continued residency may also be affected by statutes, ordinances, and regulations which are enacted from time to time by appropriate governmental bodies.

For additional information about the application process or to apply, please contact Our Neighbor, Inc., and someone will be happy to assist you.