New Campus Grounds to be $18M Community for Adults with Developmental Disabilities
Wings Community celebrates land reveal for new residential community benefitting adults with disabilities
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (October 21, 2021) – Nearly 200 parents, community leaders, volunteers and philanthropists gathered for a Land Reveal into Oklahoma’s first privately-funded nonprofit residential community for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities that will become the future campus of Wings.
Wings is an Oklahoma-City based nonprofit that exists to enhance the lives of adults with developmental disabilities through social, vocational and residential programs guided by principles of the Bible.
The groundbreaking event, held at the future site’s home 1315 East Wilshire near Kelly and Wilshire in Oklahoma City drew supporters, faith leaders, team members, government officials and other community partners to dedicate and pray over the site.
“Now is our time to take that leap of faith and realize the full vision of our founders,” said Greg Price, campaign chairman and Wings parent. “My experience has been that my son, James, cannot have a full, vibrant life without a community of like-minded people. Today, we begin the journey to build a permanent community providing a thriving space for these adults.”
The 75-acre campus will be developed in phases with the first phase totaling $18 million and delivering eight residential units. The project will be funded entirely by philanthropy. The expansion also includes a chapel, community dining commons and extensive grounds - with a plan for additional Ranch Homes and a gymnatorium.
“Our dream started with a gift of land,” said Wings Executive Director Cheri Weaver.
“The site is Wings’ future; the forever home for residents, and those seeking friendship through community. We believe there is purpose and lifelong growth both in numbers and independence. The time is now to move Wings toward its founders’ vision. The organization is 17 years old as are its members and parents. The moment is prime to transition to this beautiful 75-acres we have acquired through a most generous donation from Greg and Sandy Olson.”
Speakers included Shannon Schultheis, Wings Vice Chair. The event, emceed by Kelly Ogle and Storme Jones from News Channel 9, also drew Councilwoman Nikki Nice and a diverse community of passionate citizens seeking a vibrant community for Oklahoma’s adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Shannon Schultheis, Board Vice Chair stated her belief in the mission, “Some of us saw love-in-action at Wings, and we were instantly drawn in. I believe that Oklahoma City, and the entire state of Oklahoma, will benefit from what we are doing here. We are unique and we are needed. And when all Oklahoma citizens are seen, heard and thriving, our community is better.”
Schultheis says Wings’ existence is a double investment for the city.
She stated that Oklahomans should view this development as double investment in vocational jobs and nonprofit partnerships. As part of Wings’ Day Program, members can choose two programs that benefit the community outside of Wings. Wings Serves gets members in the volunteer spirit by assembling hygiene and school supply kits that benefit other local nonprofits - like Palomar and Infant Crisis Services. Spreading Our Wings gets members out in the community doing volunteer work at other local nonprofits - like BritVil Food Pantry or Fostering Sweet Dreams benefitting 46 nonprofit partners in our community.
“We want Oklahoma City to know our community is necessary, our members have much ability and all the work they do is donated back to our 46 nonprofit partners. They need us, and we need room to grow. Consider the demand: 450 students in metro area high schools receive special education services. Wings needs the citizens of Oklahoma to jump in and support our cause to make a difference not only for our members and their families’ lives, but those who have yet to seek our community - but will.”
The 17-year-old nonprofit has outgrown its original and current leased facility, which is a 7,500 square foot building located in southwest Edmond near Oklahoma Christian University. “It has served us well, but we can’t grow any more. Our ability to creatively use space - we’ve literally turned closets into classrooms - has run its course,” said Weaver
Phase one of the project is set to be completed late 2025. Click through the gallery link above for groundbreaking event photos and captions.
View High Res Photos (click on image to open in lightbox)
Our Dreams:
Up to 120 residential members (15 homes)
Up to 200 day program members
Onsite vocations, offsite partner work with local nonprofit organizations
Long-term we envision (and are zoned for) plenty of green space, and community spaces
