Clinton couple Todd and Joy Pozefsky accept an appreciation plaque from National MS Society, Connecticut Chapter president Lisa Gerrol during the Grand Opening Celebration of Ojakian Commons, New England’s first affordable, accessible housing for individuals with disabilities in need of services coordinated by the National MS Society, Connecticut Chapter, on Friday, Oct. 9, in Simsbury.
Joy Pozefsky was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, a potentially debilitating illness, in 1991. The Pozefskys, in addition to supporting the Walk MS fundraising event for more than 20 years, funded the Joy Pozefsky Resident Care Office inside the building. Now through their generosity, residents will be able to use the Resident Care Office to access the services provided by the Multiple Sclerosis Society and continue to live their best lives.
The three story, 48-unit complex provides barrier-free homes for individuals, and in some cases families, with features above and beyond ADA requirements. Such features include automated door openers, 42-inch wide doorways, custom horizontal sliding windows for easy opening and fully-accessible kitchens, bathrooms and much more.
The complex also features a series of community rooms for residents to utilize, such as an entertainment and technology center, a wellness center, a community room, a library and a fully-accessible garden complete with raised beds.
“We are thankful to all those who played an important role in helping make this much needed facility a reality for people living with disabilities,” said Lisa Gerrol, president and CEO of the Connecticut Chapter (pictured in red). “MS is a difficult, unpredictable disease that when it strikes, affects the entire family. With that in mind, we were pleased to have this opportunity to honor the Ojakian family for their unwavering support of our important work by officially naming the building Ojakian Commons.”
For more information on this building, visit OJcommons.com. For more information on programs, services and events offered by the National MS Society, Connecticut Chapter, visit ctfightsMS.org.