Susan and Alan Harding, Founding Neighbors

We moved to Florida from England in 1999 with our two sons – Daniel, a personal trainer and nutritionist, and Adam, a young man with intellectual disability.  Daughters Pam and Catherine live in London, England and Florence, Italy.

Recently retired, we ran a tax and accounting firm for 20 years.  We have served on several nonprofit boards and been involved in fundraising and membership for various organizations including American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, Circle of Friends and Noah’s Ark of Central Florida.  We are strong advocates for inclusive life opportunities for families and individuals who experience disability.

Susan loves cooking, reading, walking, cycling, travel and gatherings with friends and family.  Alan’s passions include music (a drummer in a previous life), cricket, eating Susan’s cooking, cricket and football (soccer).  Adam loves music, volunteering with SPCA, hanging out with friends, and riding his yellow tricycle.

David and Linda Wood, Founding Neighbors

We are originally from Ohio, but have followed David’s career to Indiana, Colorado and now Florida. We are retired educators who have dedicated our lives and careers to improving opportunities for individuals with disabilities, including our oldest daughter, Joann.  Our younger daughter, Sara, is a licensed school psychologist.  She and her husband Michael also reside in Lakeland.

We are committed to developing and living in a blended cohousing community in Lakeland, where Joann can occupy her own home under our watchful eye.  Joann has typically related more easily to adults without disabilities with whom she can engage in endless conversations while enjoying her sense of humor.

We hope to leave a legacy in which we are integral to something larger than ourselves.