For many families raising a child with intellectual and developmental disabilities, one question looms large: What happens when I can no longer care for my loved one? For Julie Carter, that question became the catalyst for creating Family First Villages, a nonprofit organization dedicated to building community, connection, employment opportunities, and future housing options for adults with disabilities.
The inspiration behind Family First Villages is deeply personal. Carter’s sister, Annie, was born with a rare genetic disorder and spent much of her life living with their parents. As her parents grew older, Annie moved in with Julie and her family, where she has lived for nearly 12 years. Watching her sister gain independence, maintain employment, and develop meaningful friendships highlighted both the possibilities and the challenges faced by adults with disabilities.
“When I started thinking about Annie’s future and what would happen when I was no longer able to care for her, I began researching housing options,” Carter explained. “What I discovered was that there were very few choices, especially here in Forsyth County.”
That realization led to the founding of Family First Villages, a nonprofit committed to filling critical gaps in services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Addressing Critical Needs
According to Carter, housing is just one of several challenges facing this community. Employment opportunities remain limited, and many adults struggle to find workplaces that are flexible enough to accommodate their unique needs. Equally concerning is the social isolation many experience after aging out of school-based services at age 22.
“When they graduate, many lose their support network and social connections,” Carter said. “Parents often struggle to find places where their adult children can continue building friendships and being part of the community.”
To address that need, Family First Villages launched Club 22 Fundamentals, a social engagement program designed specifically for adults who have completed their school years. Participants enjoy monthly activities that include volunteering at local food pantries, game nights, hiking, bowling, pool parties, and community outings.
The results have been encouraging. Participants have begun exchanging phone numbers, forming friendships, and spending time together outside of organized events.
“That’s really the goal,” Carter said. “To help create genuine friendships and opportunities for connection.”
Building Resources for Families
Recognizing the challenges families face when searching for specialized services, Family First Villages also created the Special Needs Network Directory for Forsyth County. The directory connects families with trusted providers including therapists, counselors, medical professionals, and businesses that serve the special needs community.
“Our parent community is incredibly supportive,” Carter said. “We wanted to make it easier for families to find resources and share recommendations.”
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Family First Villages has ambitious plans. Carter envisions a walkable residential community where adults with disabilities can live independently in studio or one-bedroom apartments while receiving support services as needed.
The nonprofit is also pursuing a unique vocational training model centered around sustainable farming. Carter hopes to acquire a small farm where adults can learn hydroponic farming techniques, develop job skills, and gain meaningful employment while helping produce healthy, pesticide-free food.
To help fund these initiatives, Family First Villages is launching Tinsel Trail, its first signature fundraising event. Businesses and organizations are invited to sponsor and decorate Christmas trees that will be displayed for families to enjoy during the holiday season.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
At its heart, Family First Villages is about ensuring that individuals with disabilities never feel alone and that families have hope for the future.
“We want people to know they don’t have to navigate this journey by themselves,” Carter said. “We want to create a place where adults with disabilities are loved, supported, included, and given opportunities to live meaningful lives.”
For Georgia families seeking community, resources, and a vision for what is possible, Family First Villages is helping build a future where everyone belongs.
Learn More
To learn more, volunteer, sponsor an event, or support the mission, visit www.familyfirstvillages.com or contact Julie Carter at julie@familyfirstvillages.com.
