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Mae House: A Supportive Haven for Women with Developmental Disabilities

The warm and inviting interior of Mae House, where women find community and support.

News Summary

Mae House in Newport Beach provides a loving, supportive home for women with developmental disabilities. Inspired by personal experiences, it offers independence within a nurturing community. Opened in 2017 as a non-profit, Mae House focuses on health, well-being, and community engagement. With plans for future expansion and a new Social Club, it continues to foster friendships and opportunities for growth, ensuring every resident feels included and supported.

Warm Welcome at Mae House in Newport Beach

Navigating life can be a little tricky, and that’s especially true for those with developmental disabilities. Luckily, there’s a heartwarming haven right in Newport Beach – the Mae House. This cozy spot is not just a house; it’s a loving home designed for women who need a bit more support in their everyday life.

The Inspiration Behind Mae House

The roots of Mae House are deeply personal, inspired by the experiences of Liz and Ed Slater and their daughter, Hannah Mae. Diagnosed with a seizure disorder at just 9 months, Hannah’s journey took a significant turn when she underwent brain surgery before she even turned 2. This life-changing event opened the Slater family’s eyes to the reality that Hannah wouldn’t have a “normal” life. Instead of feeling defeated, they decided to build a brighter future by creating a safe and supportive community for Hannah and others like her, who need some extra love and care.

Creating a Community

After years of thoughtful planning, the Mae House opened its doors as a non-profit organization in 2017. The mission? To cultivate an inviting residential community for adults with developmental disabilities. Right now, Mae House is home to four incredible women: Hannah, Carrie, Gina, and Tanette, who are all thriving in this supportive environment.

Life at Mae House

Living at Mae House is all about independence and friendship. The women here enjoy their autonomy while being guided and supported by a dedicated team of nine assistants and a specialist who focuses on nutrition. The days can be filled with many fun activities: from biking along the scenic paths of Newport Beach to shopping for new outfits, and even participating in church activities. It’s a busy, joy-filled life!

Not only do these remarkable women enjoy social outings, but they also get a chance to work. Two of the residents have jobs within the community, while the others take part in day programs to improve social skills and explore their artistic talents. At Mae House, everybody is encouraged to grow and flourish.

Emphasizing Health and Well-Being

Health is a top priority at Mae House. The team ensures that the women enjoy nutritious meals, physical activity, and emotional support to help them live their best lives. Assistant Administrator Megan Parrish oversees these daily routines, managing everything from medical appointments to social events that help foster a sense of community.

Building trust is a big component of life at Mae House. Staff members work hard to create an environment filled with compassion, enabling the residents to tackle life’s challenges together as a team.

Community Support

The Newport Beach community plays a pivotal role in the success of Mae House. Local pizzerias provide delicious pizza deliveries, while sandwich donations come in every week. This generosity creates a warm feeling of togetherness, showcasing the love that extends beyond the walls of Mae House.

Exciting Future Plans

Looking ahead, Mae House has exciting plans for the future! They hope to expand their facility to welcome two more women, with construction expected to kick off in fall 2025. This growth has been made possible by the unwavering support of the community, which has seen contributions from more than 700 individuals and several grants!

Additionally, Mae House is working on creating a Social Club to enhance community engagement for those not residing in the home, making sure that everyone can feel included and supported.

Making a Difference

Ultimately, Mae House stands as a shining beacon for its commitment to providing quality care and housing for individuals with developmental disabilities in Orange County. It’s not just a house; it’s a home where dreams are nurtured, friendships are formed, and lives are forever changed.