Otr (Over The Rainbow Association)

Our Mission - We are dedicated to increasing the quality of life for people with physical disabilities through the creation of affordable, barrier-free housing solutions, person-centered services, and enrichment programming that encourages independence. Who We Serve - Our residents cope with a wide variety of physical disabilities arising from either birth or circumstance. Some have cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, spina bifida or multiple sclerosis, while others are wounded veterans, have had strokes or have had diving or car accidents, leaving them paralyzed or without limbs. In all of these cases, our residents have one thing in common – they are extremely low income, have no independent source of funds, and have difficulty fully engaging in the work force because of their disability. Consequently, they cannot afford market-rate housing, let alone find accessible housing to accommodate their wheelchairs. Our Programs: (1) Future Housing Program - We own and/or manage 11 apartment communities in Chicago and the metropolitan area, with an 12th building opening in fall of 2020 in Waukegan, Illinois (2) Resident Service Program - Our objective is to help residents navigate and utilize existing community-based resources that affect quality of life and encourage independence, and in some cases, help meet basic needs to maintain housing. Examples include educational and vocational training, physical therapy, wheelchair clinics, community gardening, a volunteer program, and isolation prevention. Increasing connections with the community especially helps those who are more vulnerable and at risk for losing their independence.