EPIC Foundations: Smart homes built on 50 years of bold moves.

THE BIG VISION

At Epic, independence isn't just a milestone—it's a movement. For 50 years, we've championed the rights, potential, and dignity of individuals with developmental disabilities. Now, as we celebrate our legacy with "Epic Foundations: 50 Years of Bold Moves," we turn to the future with one of our boldest visions yet: transforming homes into smart, accessible spaces that empower people with disabilities to live independently, safely, and fully.

We are launching this Capital Campaign “EPIC Foundations: Smart homes built on 50 years of bold moves” with an ambitious goal to raise $750,000 to equip more than 15 homes across Northwestern Ohio, with transformative technology and accessibility features—creating a replicable model of community-driven, tech-enabled, inclusive living.

Why This Campaign Matters

Equity: Individuals with Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) deserve access to the same smart, safe, and adaptable environments as everyone else.

Innovation: Proven technologies like AI fall detection and adaptive systems are revolutionizing independent living.

Urgency: Workforce shortages and aging caregivers threaten the stability of traditional care models.

Impact: Every $50,000 gift transforms a home—and the life of someone who calls it theirs.

WHY NOW?

The landscape of disability services is shifting. Funding uncertainty, an overstretched Direct Support Professional (DSP) workforce, and aging caregivers mean that individuals with disabilities are increasingly at risk of institutionalization or homelessness.

At the same time, powerful tools exist: AI-based fall detection, adaptive smart home systems, behavioral tracking software, and accessible housing models have all proven effective. With philanthropic support, we can bring these innovations together—ensuring that no person is denied a dignified, independent life due to outdated systems or limited resources.

Together, we can build not just better homes, but stronger futures.

WHAT YOUR GIFT WILL DO

Each $50,000 investment equips a home with technology, accessibility improvements, and expert training. However, no two homes are the same; some require full remodels while others need targeted upgrades. Here’s what your support may fund:

Smart lighting and voice-activated controls
Nobi smart lamps for fall detection (shown to reduce falls by 80%)
The S'MORES system for in-home health monitoring and DSP wellness
Accessible kitchen and bathroom modifications
Entryway and safety enhancements
Staff and family training to support successful use of technologies

These upgrades don’t just modernize homes, they unlock independence. And they come with expert installation, ongoing support, and training from Epic’s team.

WHO THIS HELPS

This campaign will equip 15 homes across Northwest Ohio , benefitting both new and existing residents in Epic's care. Some homes will be remodeled for longtime Epic clients whose needs have evolved. Others will be fully equipped for individuals transitioning into independent living for the first time.

Each home is more than just a place to live. It’s a launchpad for connection, confidence, and contribution.

WHY EPIC?

Epic is the newly rebranded evolution of Independence of Portage County, Inc. (IOPCI), bringing decades of experience in direct support, housing, and advocacy. We are leading a coalition of trusted partners including:

Open Door Columbus (a $29.5M nonprofit with expertise in inclusive housing)
Residential Home Association of Marion County (RHAM)
Behavioral Services of Tennessee
Nobi USA, the U.S. arm of a European leader in AI safety lighting

We’re not starting from scratch. These technologies and models have been tested in Europe and Florida, and we’re bringing them to Ohio’s disability services landscape in a bold, integrated way.

For more than five decades, Epic has been a trusted and transformational force in the lives of people with disabilities. We bring:

Deep relationships with families, caregivers, and service providers
A holistic approach to care, skill-building, and community integration
A commitment to innovation, guided by thoughtfulness and authenticity

We are ready to take it further—and do it boldly.

NAMING OPPORTUNITIES

Epic welcomes gifts of all sizes and offers meaningful naming opportunities tied to smart home features and impact. Individual, Corporate, and Foundation partners can showcase their commitment to innovation, equity, and independence while creating lasting change in the community.

$250,000 + Flagship Naming Partner

Name a full initiative or “neighborhood” cluster of smart homes
Includes campaign-wide visibility
Co-branded storytelling and leadership spotlight opportunities

$100,000 + Home Innovation Sponsor

Name a signature element of EPIC’s housing innovation
Sponsorship recognition across campaign materials and donor platforms
Invitation to participate in campaign media and ribbon-cutting events

$50,000 + Smart Home Sponsor

Fully equip one home with adaptive and assistive technologies
Name featured in virtual campaign gallery and permanent donor materials
Opportunity to meet residents or receive a story of impact

$25,000 + Smart Living Feature Sponsor

Name a specific smart feature across multiple homes:
- Smart kitchen suite
- Voice-controlled accessibility system
- Security and wellness system
Recognition in campaign materials linked to the sponsored feature

$10,000 + Room + System Sponsor

Name a room or essential technology system
Recognition in donor communications and at campaign celebration event

All Donors

All donors will be recognized in Epic’s annual report
Custom partnerships and recognition plans available for corporate supporters

Every gift builds the foundation for independence.

$50 – Access Builder: Provides adaptive software or accessibility apps to help someone connect, learn, or communicate.
$100 – Tech Connector: Supports the purchase of assistive tools—like voice-activated devices—that make everyday tasks possible.
$250 – Independence Partner: Covers the installation of smart home features such as automated lighting or accessible entry systems.
$500 – Empowerment Champion: Funds specialized devices that enhance mobility and communication, giving individuals greater freedom.
$1,000 – Smart Home Innovator: Equips a room in a smart home with advanced accessibility features, from smart appliances to safety systems.
$2,500 – Community Catalyst: Provides full assistive technology packages for one individual, transforming daily life with independence and dignity.
$5,000 – Home Builder: Covers major smart home upgrades, embedding inclusive design and technology into living spaces.

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

This is more than a capital campaign. It's a declaration of what's possible when community, technology, and purpose align. With your support, we will build 15 smart homes that become a national model for inclusive, independent living. Each gift brings us closer to a future where every person—regardless of ability—can live fully, safely, and EPICly.

Give boldly. Live EPIC.

EPIC Foundations

Team Members