Toward Independence marks 50 years, showcases hydroponic garden and accessibility plans to Xenia council

A representative of Toward Independence told the Xenia City Council on March 12 that the nonprofit has been operating for 50 years, serves roughly 200 people across six counties and employs about 350 people, including about 95 with Xenia ZIP codes. The group outlined day programs, group homes, a remote support service and plans for a fully accessible park with a hoped-for 2027 groundbreaking.

The presenter said the organization supports residents through a range of services — ‘‘we have about 40 people who Monday through Friday come to Xenia, live, contribute, come shop and do activities’’ — and described group homes, representative pay services and nursing care for clients with high medical needs. The organization also highlighted a hydroponic garden next door that produces 30–60 heads of lettuce per week and an aquaponics system that currently houses about 150 tilapia; surplus produce is donated to local partners including One Beastro and Coffee Hub.

Bill, identified in the meeting as a self-advocate and member of Toward Independence’s self-advocacy council, told the council that advocacy helps ‘‘improve the community together and make it more accessible’’ and urged the community to ‘‘listen to the members of my community and be kind.’' Council members joined the group after the presentation for a ribbon/photo opportunity and the presenters invited elected officials and residents to schedule tours of the garden and program facilities.

Why it matters: Council members and staff highlighted the organization’s local economic footprint and downtown revitalization partnerships, including volunteer placements and small-business collaborations. Toward Independence said it operates about 20–22 homes in the area, runs a day program that brings clients downtown and is developing an accessible park and pavilion that would offer universally accessible play equipment and picnic spaces.

Next steps: The organization will continue outreach and fundraising; council took no action requiring a vote beyond the public recognition and encouraged residents to visit the garden and programs.