FAQs

OSG is a nonprofit founded by parents of adults with developmental disabilities (DD) that builds inclusive communities through affordable housing and 100+ hours of monthly programming. We strengthen neighborhoods, foster interdependence, and create lasting connections. Watch our Housing Webinar to learn more about OSG and how housing works. (Passcode: *H1SPs.C)

We primarily support adults with DD, but our inclusive programs are open to everyone in the buildings where we work—and beyond. We welcome people of all abilities, ages, and backgrounds. Family members, caregivers, and neighbors are essential parts of our community.

We’re currently based in Northern Virginia with active communities at The Arden, The Cadence, Gilliam Place, The Ovation at Arrowbrook, Queen’s Court, The Belmont and The Robinson at University One (George Mason University), and The Waypoint.

Our partner apartment communities are owned by affordable housing developers like Wesley Housing and True Ground. OSG doesn’t own the buildings—we provide on-site community-building programs.

So many ways! Join an event, volunteer, attend an orientation, or subscribe to our newsletter. All events are listed on our Events Calendar.

At OSG, building inclusive communities wouldn’t be possible without our incredible volunteers—you! Whether you’re a graduate student, caregiver, corporate partner, or just someone with a big heart, your time and talents make a real impact. Volunteer now.

There’s no membership fee, and most of our events are free unless otherwise noted. Participants do cover their own meals at Dinner Clubs and buy tickets for special events like our annual Halloween party. Other than that, we do our best to keep everything budget-friendly.

Two routes:

• Waiver Route: Work with your Community Services Board (CSB) case manager to apply. Watch this video from The Arc of Nova about the housing referral process.

Here’s a document with application instructions. The form must be completed and signed by both the applicant and their support coordinator.

Affordable Housing Route: Apply directly to the leasing office of the apartment community as anyone else would. Qualification is based on income.

Some units are designated for people with developmental disabilities, meaning their applications are prioritized. A qualifying waiver or CSB referral is often required.

There are several types of DD waivers, each offering different supports. [Here’s a list of the waiver types and what they include.]

Sign up for our housing alerts. You can also email us to be added to announcements related to openings.

Start by contacting Jeannie Cummins at the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS):

• Email: [email protected]
• Tel: (804) 836-4308

Jeannie will help determine eligibility, explain next steps, and guide you through requesting a unit hold, if appropriate. When emailing, please include the name of the property in the subject line and copy [email protected]. We also recommend copying the CSB case manager for the person seeking housing.

To qualify for the leasing preference, individuals must:

• Be part of the DBHDS Settlement Agreement/Target Population (as defined by DBHDS), and
  
• Have or be in the process of applying for rental assistance.
  

If eligible, DBHDS will provide:

• A verification letter confirming leasing preference eligibility
  
• The appropriate contact information for property management
  

Please wait to contact the property directly until DBHDS has issued these materials.

We offer a wide range of events each month. Sample programs include art workshops, yoga, movie and game nights, urban excursions, and nature walks. We also host hybrid events like Book Club and Social Justice Club for those who prefer to join online.

Yes. Everyone’s welcome—even those who don’t live at OSG properties.

Check our Events Calendar, sign up for the weekly email, and join our WhatsApp group chats.

From the Events Calendar, click on the event listing, select “Going,” and fill out the RSVP form. You’ll get a confirmation email once you sign up.

Yes! Please do! Just make sure everyone RSVPs.

Not currently. Most events are near public transit, and we encourage carpooling.

Yes. We host monthly coffee meetups and special gatherings to help parents and caregivers connect, share ideas, and support one another.

Start by exploring an event together—many families attend alongside their loved ones at first. You can also reach out to us directly for guidance or attend one of our virtual orientations to learn more.

Yes! Our OSG Orientation is open to individuals, families, and support teams. We also host seasonal Open Houses, virtual Q&A sessions, and in-person community tours.

If you’re navigating a particular challenge or wondering if OSG is the right fit, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you figure it out, one step at a time.