Independence Landing community builds confidence, self-reliance
Grand opening day for Independence Landing in 2024.
The desire for independence tends to grow with age. For some, achieving independence comes with support from families and friends, enabling their loved ones to gain confidence in becoming self-sufficient.
Independence Landing, a 60-bedroom residential facility in Tallahassee, Florida, for adults with cognitive and developmental disabilities, allows residents to build their lives in a safe, accommodating space.
Brian Coffee, executive director of corporate real estate, and his team secured financing for the construction of Independence Landing. Support for the project came from various sources, including the local government, as the city is leasing the land to Independence Landing for $10 per year for the next 60 years.
Coffee started working at Synovus in February 2020 and is based in the Birmingham, Alabama, office. He shares that a client introduced him to the Independence Landing concept, and he immediately wanted to learn more and get involved. “The idea that this facility helps residents learn to work, live and socialize independently from their families inspired us,” he says.
Independence Landing aligns closely with Synovus commitment to investing in community initiatives and development projects. The community investment capital team focuses on expanding the bank’s efforts in reaching low- and moderate-income communities in its footprint.
“The idea that this facility helps residents learn to work, live and socialize independently from family inspired us.”
The Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant multipurpose community helps residents live independently. Each resident learns valuable life skills about living alone or with a roommate.
The 12,000-square-foot clubhouse offers amenities, including pool tables, a game and movie room, arts and crafts area, learning center, commercial swimming pool, and a commercial kitchen. In the on-site kitchen, 15 residents earned their ServSafe food handler certifications and successfully catered a 100-person event.
“Independence Landing provides our residents with a safe, stable place to live where they can thrive,” Barby Moro, Independence Landing director of operations, explains. “This community also helps them stay connected and avoid feeling isolated. Plus, the affordable housing classification eases financial pressure, so our residents can focus on living their lives without worrying about where they’ll live.”
Read more about how Synovus team members are enabling people to reach their full potential.