Executive Summary

There is a compelling story behind the name WEUSI Underground Railroad.In Swahili, the word ‘WEUSI’ (way-oo-see) means black. Just as the Underground Railroad served as a path to freedom during the era of slavery, this project embodies a modernday journey towards liberation and empowerment. By embracing this name, we bridge the historical struggle for freedom with our commitment to support and empowerment. Together, we are creating a modern Underground Railroad, guiding individuals toward recovery, community and a brighter future

WEUSI Underground Railroad II Inc. is a 501 (c) (3) organization dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive adult care services in Montgomery County.

Currently operating at two locations, our organization has a strong foundation in delivering exceptional care, with each facility offering a warm and supportive environment for our consumers. Recognizing the need to further enhance the quality of life and independence, we are embarking on an ambitious business expansion plan

At the core of this expansion project lies our vision to create a luxurious and comfortable living environment nestled within our existing fiveacre property. This visionary initiative, The Underground Railroad Village, is set to redefine the way we provide care for our consumers, offering them a seamless transition from our main facility to these purposefully designed homes. These charming yet generously sized houses will function as private residences for our consumers, affording them the opportunity to embrace newfound independence and autonomy, all while receiving the essential care and monitoring they require. Our current design envisions these homes to be under 1,000 square feet, having stateoftheart monitoring, and promoting a lifestyle of simplicity. We believe having less space for possessions translates to having more room for personal growth and fulfillment. This holistic approach ensures that our consumersare closely monitored and supported, reducing the risk of relapses and promoting their overall stability and growth

The innovative model of WEUSI Underground Railroad is deeply rooted in the core belief that empowerment and dignity are fundamental to the recovery and wellbeing of our consumers. Our village concept is designed to cultivate an inclusive and nurturing environment that promotes personal growth and self- esteem. This empowerment enables our consumers to make a gradual transition 

Project Vision

The proposed expansion project aligns with the community’s urgent need for healthcare services and support for vulnerable populations. This initiative aims to address the growing demand for mental health services by creating a Transitional Village that offers a luxurious, comfortable, and supportive living environment for adults suffering from persistent mental illness or recovering from a psychotic break. 

Local Context

In Dayton, Ohio, the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau indicates a population  of  137,644 residents (source: U.S. Census Bureau). Based on the NIMH statistic, approximately 20% of this  population – totaling around 27,528 individuals – may require mental health care at some point each year. This substantial number highlights the significant demand for mental health within Dayton, emphasizing the need for enhanced support systems and specialized facilities