As I stroll through the vibrant streets of the Apache Central Center, I can’t help but feel a sense of wonder and optimism. This remarkable community, nestled in the heart of Tempe, Arizona, is a shining example of how affordable housing can transcend mere brick and mortar, forging meaningful intergenerational connections and cultivating a truly inclusive atmosphere.
Embracing the Community for All Ages
The Apache Central Center is a dynamic campus that proudly boasts 400 units of affordable housing, designed to cater to a diverse population spanning multiple generations and economic backgrounds. Ranging from 30 to 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI), this project has embraced the “Community for All Ages” (CFAA) model, prioritizing human connection through carefully curated spaces and programming that encourage interactions among residents of different ages.
As highlighted on the Community Development Partners website, the campus features a significant allocation of smaller 1-bedroom units designated for senior residents, seamlessly integrated alongside a mix of 2- and 3-bedroom homes catering to Tempe’s working families. This intentional blend of housing options fosters natural social connections, complemented by a wealth of programs and amenities provided by both the property and its service partners.
Fostering Intergenerational Connections
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Apache Central Center is its unwavering commitment to fostering intergenerational connections. By crafting affordable multifamily spaces that encompass youth, adults, and elders, the community has set the stage for meaningful interactions to blossom.
Imagine a vibrant community center where seniors gather for their weekly game night, their laughter and friendly banter filling the air. Nearby, a group of young adults attends a cooking class, learning traditional recipes from their elder neighbors, sharing stories and traditions that transcend age. In the courtyard, children play freely, their joyful shrieks mingling with the gentle conversations of their grandparents who have gathered to watch, their eyes sparkling with pride and unconditional love.
Nurturing a Sense of Belonging
The Apache Central Center’s dedication to inclusivity extends far beyond the physical spaces. As described on the Community Development Partners website, the community boasts a 7,000-square-foot ground-floor grocery store and a culturally diverse food pod, poised to function as a micro-enterprise accelerator program for aspiring food-based entrepreneurs. These amenities not only cater to the diverse needs of the residents but also serve as hubs of activity, fostering a deep sense of belonging and community pride.
Imagine the delight of a young mother as she discovers a beloved ingredient from her childhood, transported to the familiar flavors of her homeland. Or the joy of a retired couple as they stumble upon a local vendor selling the same handcrafted artisanal goods they once treasured back home. These moments of connection, woven into the fabric of daily life, are the heartbeat of the Apache Central Center, creating a tapestry of diverse experiences that celebrate the richness of its residents.
Collaborative Partnerships for Community Empowerment
The success of the Apache Central Center is a testament to the power of collaborative partnerships. As highlighted on the Community Development Partners website, the project was selected by the City of Tempe, Community Development Partners (CDP), and their partner, Juntos Community Developers, to lead the redevelopment of three sites for this multi-phase, mixed-use endeavor.
Juntos Community Developers, a development organization focused on building affordable housing to strengthen communities in Oregon and Arizona, brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the unique needs and aspirations of the local population. Driven by a vision of a future where Latino families thrive, Juntos’ mission centers on housing as a cornerstone for community well-being, leveraging their expertise in multifamily development to address current housing challenges.
Furthermore, the project has forged a strategic alliance with Cultural Coalition, a Mesa-based arts nonprofit dedicated to the education, promotion, and development of Indigenous artists in Arizona. By integrating cultural programming and artistic expression into the fabric of the community, the Apache Central Center cultivates a vibrant and inclusive environment that celebrates the diverse heritage of its residents.
Empowering Local Businesses, Strengthening the Economy
The Apache Central Center’s commitment to fostering inclusive communities extends beyond its residential offerings. In partnership with Local First Arizona, a nonprofit organization working to build a more diverse and inclusive Arizona economy, the project has dedicated resources to supporting small businesses and micro-enterprises within the community.
The introduction of the culturally diverse food pod, as mentioned earlier, serves as a prime example of this initiative. By providing a platform for aspiring food-based entrepreneurs to launch and grow their businesses, the Apache Central Center empowers local talent, celebrates the rich culinary traditions of the region, and contributes to the overall economic vitality of the area.
Aging with Dignity and Community Support
As I continue my stroll through the Apache Central Center, I can’t help but be impressed by the thoughtful approach to accommodating the needs of senior residents. As outlined in the article from WSB Engineering, the community’s emphasis on inclusive infrastructure and understanding the diverse demands and needs of seniors sets it apart as a model for age-friendly community development.
The strategic allocation of 1-bedroom units for older adults, coupled with the seamless integration of these spaces within the larger residential fabric, allows seniors to maintain their independence while fostering a sense of community and belonging. Moreover, the access to well-maintained sidewalks, public transportation options, and age-inclusive community centers empowers seniors to actively engage in social and recreational activities, reducing isolation and promoting a higher quality of life.
Embracing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
At the heart of the Apache Central Center’s success lies its unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. As highlighted in the Bellevue, Washington community conversation report, the community recognizes that the needs of senior residents are not universally the same. By considering cultural practices, income, religion, and medical care requirements, the Apache Central Center has crafted a truly inclusive environment that celebrates the diversity of its residents.
This holistic approach extends beyond the physical infrastructure, encompassing the provision of mental health services and support for seniors, especially those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. The community’s collaborative efforts to address the evolving needs of its aging population further solidify its position as a shining example of what can be achieved when a shared vision of inclusivity and well-being guides the development of affordable housing solutions.
A Vision for the Future
As I leave the Apache Central Center, a sense of optimism and hope fills my heart. This community, with its vibrant intergenerational connections and unwavering commitment to inclusivity, serves as a blueprint for the future of affordable housing. By fostering meaningful interactions, empowering local businesses, and embracing the diverse needs of its residents, the Apache Central Center has set a new standard for what it means to create a truly inclusive and thriving community.
I can’t help but wonder how the Hacienda Community Coalition (HACC), an organization dedicated to providing affordable housing solutions, might draw inspiration from the Apache Central Center’s model. Imagine the transformative impact they could have on communities across the nation, replicating this successful approach and igniting a movement towards a future where all people, regardless of age, background, or economic status, can find a place to call home and thrive in a supportive, vibrant community.
The Apache Central Center stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when we prioritize the well-being of all members of our community. As I reflect on my experience, I am filled with a renewed sense of purpose, eager to share this inspirational story and to continue advocating for the creation of inclusive, intergenerational affordable housing solutions that enrich the lives of individuals and strengthen the fabric of our communities.