A new workforce development and independent living center is planned in Canton, which will provide job training and independent living skills for individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism.
The facility will be built at 225 Commerce Drive and operated by the nonprofit organization Favarh, which has its main office on the property.
It will be the first comprehensive facility of its kind in Connecticut, according to Favarh.
Favarh has received $2.5 million in funding for the project, which was approved by the state Bond Commission earlier this month. The total project cost is estimated at $5 million; Favarh is seeking donations to cover the remaining $2.5 million needed.
The project received support from state Sen. Paul Honig (D-Harwinton) and state Rep. Eleni Kavros DeGraw (D-Avon), who advocated for the state funding.
“This investment will transform lives by equipping individuals with the skills and resources needed for competitive employment and independent living,” Honig said.
The planned two-story building will span 12,000 to 15,000 square feet, with 9,000 square feet on the upper level and 3,000 to 6,000 square feet on the lower level, according to Favarh.
The design will include energy-efficient features and accommodations for individuals with autism.
Services at the center will focus on basic job preparation and workplace readiness.
Programming will include resume preparation, interview practice, skill-building workshops, workplace best practices training, internship readiness and job exploration activities.
The facility will also offer independent living skills training through a model apartment and culinary kitchen designed to help participants develop daily living capabilities.
Kavros DeGraw said the initiative will have economic benefits, too.
“By preparing adults with (intellectual and developmental disabilities) and autism for workforce integration, we are not only supporting individual growth but also strengthening Connecticut’s economy,” she said.
Contractor bids are scheduled to be issued this fall, with construction expected to begin shortly after that. The project is anticipated to take 12 to 18 months to complete. The final building design will be determined based on the selected contractor’s proposal.
Favarh has operated programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities for more than 65 years.
Dr. Valerie Wiseman, the organization’s incoming president, said the center addresses the needs of families seeking services for adult children with disabilities.
“This isn’t just about a new building — it’s about hope,” Wiseman said. “It’s about parents sleeping peacefully, knowing their adult children have a place where they belong and can pursue happiness, purpose and dignity.”
The center is expected to serve individuals seeking competitive employment, potentially reducing long-term state costs through increased economic participation of people with disabilities.
