The Lukas Community was founded in 1981 by a group of individuals who saw the desperate need for a place where adults with developmental challenges could live full and productive lives. They envisioned a place where these adults could develop their abilities while being supported in their disabilities, a place where each person was recognized as a unique human being with freedom, dignity and purpose. The founders and those who followed believed that in every human being, no matter how challenged, there lies a longing for self development, a longing to realize one's fullest potential in all aspects of life. Thus, they sought to create an environment in which this process of becoming and unfolding would be respected, supported and encouraged. The ideal from the beginning has been to have both "abled" and "disabled" persons living together as an extended family, sharing their lives and work within a therapeutic context of care.

Lukas has grown over the years from a single extended-family household with a handful of residents when it opened its doors in 1981 to become a vibrant community of four households and much more. In the spirit of building a community that fosters personal growth and development of its members, Lukas continues to grow and change, adapting itself to meet the ever changing needs of its residents. We have recently constructed two residences that provide essential ground floor bedroom spaces for our aging residents as well as additional spaces for younger residents who will join us in the future. We also have a new woodwork shop and a new greenhouse, which serves the needs of our therapeutic gardening program. For those of you who may wonder, the Lukas Community derives its name from the gospel writer, St. Luke, who was both a physician and an artist.