ABOUT
The Ground UP Project Inc.
Our Mission
It is incredible how one small idea can grow into something truly special. The Ground Up Project is rooted in the belief that we all have an inherent responsibility to make a meaningful difference in our community. With a variety of active projects and a large volunteer staff, we harness our skills and resources to create a community for this vulnerable population.
Our Vision
Our journey begins with the development of a state-of-the-art community center, which will serve as an adult day program and respite care facility. This center will be a welcoming space where individuals with autism can participate in enriching activities, build friendships, and develop skills for greater independence. Beyond benefiting individuals with autism, the center will become a vibrant hub for the town, creating opportunities for local partnerships, volunteerism, and job growth, ultimately strengthening the community as a whole.
In furthering our vision, we will establish a residential community that includes both group homes and independent apartments. Designed with safety, comfort, and autonomy in mind, this community will provide a range of living options to meet the unique needs of each resident. Our goal is to create a true home environment where adults with autism can live fulfilling lives with access to personalized support, social opportunities, and meaningful employment and volunteer experiences.
A vision for community and engagement
Our community center is designed to be a warm, inclusive space that provides high-quality respite services and an engaging adult day program for individuals with special needs. This thoughtfully planned facility will offer a variety of dedicated spaces to support personal growth, skill-building, and well-being.
Our vision for the center includes:
🔹 Commercial Kitchen and laundry along with a mail room – Hands-on vocational training and meaningful work opportunities.
🔹 Creative Arts Room – A space for self-expression through various artistic mediums.
🔹 Sensory Room – Designed for relaxation and emotional regulation.
🔹 Nursing Station – Providing essential health monitoring and care.
🔹 Therapy Rooms – Dedicated spaces for OT, speech, and physical therapy to support participants' needs.
🔹 And much more...
This center will be more than just a facility—it will be a thriving hub of independence, community, and opportunity.
A vision for community living
Our proposed housing options are designed to provide a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment for adults with special needs. We are creating spaces that promote independence while fostering a strong sense of community.
Apartments
Our apartment building will feature eight private units, each approximately 400 sq. ft., with one bedroom, one bathroom, and a kitchenette. Residents will enjoy the privacy of their own space while having access to a shared common area where they can socialize and build connections with neighbors.
Group Homes
Each group home will be designed to accommodate five residents and a live-in supervisor in a six-bedroom, six-bathroom layout. Residents will have their own private bedroom and bathroom while sharing a kitchen, dining, and living space, creating a warm and communal living environment that encourages friendships and daily engagement.
These thoughtfully designed living spaces reflect our commitment to independence, inclusion, and belonging—where every resident feels at home and supported.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep up-to-date with your organization?
You can follow us on our social media pages and sign up to receive our monthly newsletter.
What areas do you plan on serving?
We are located in the Florida panhandle and plan to serve Okaloosa, Walton, and Escambia counties.
Are you a non-profit organization?
Yes! We are officially registered as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, recognized by the federal government. Our nonprofit status can be verified at irs.gov/charities-nonprofits using our FEIN 93-2271173