The South Orange Planning Board on Jan. 5 voted unanimously to approve plans for The Hub, a residential and program space developed by Jespy House designed to expand independence and opportunity for young adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD).
The approval of The Hub marks a major milestone in Jespy’s Go Big for Jespy Capital Campaign — the organization’s initiative to expand housing and services for adults with IDD across the lifespan. The Hub joins The Jespy Center, which received planning board approval in late 2024 and broke ground in June 2025, as cornerstones of Jespy’s vision for inclusive, accessible living and learning environments that support clients’ dreams of independence, connection and community belonging.
The Hub is to be located on Milligan Street near Jespy’s Judi House, which is one of Jespy’s recreation and day program spaces. The Hub will offer 20 residential units, a state-of-the-art training kitchen, a library and technology center, art zones, and engagement and enrichment areas.
“In every aspect of this project, we prioritized innovation and client autonomy,” said Jespy Executive Director Audrey Winkler. “The Hub will empower young adults with IDD to gain essential life skills, build confidence, and live full, self-directed lives in the community they love.”
The Planning Board’s approval underscores growing recognition of the urgent need for accessible, affordable, and housing options for people with disabilities.
The Hub builds on the momentum of The Jespy Center, a transformational facility approved last year that will include residential apartments, aging-in-place suites, enhanced accessible program spaces, clinical and behavioral supports, and vocational and wellness resources for all clients served by Jespy.
“At Jespy, we’ve created an innovative model that fully integrates housing, services and programming for adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in a walkable community,” said Winkler. “We’re grateful for the support of the South Orange community and look forward to continuing to partner with the Village to advance these projects.”
The Go Big for Jespy Capital Campaign has attracted community and philanthropic support. A major matching gift challenge was launched by longtime supporters, Leon and Toby Cooperman, to encourage donors of all capacities to participate and support the campaign.
