Who We Are

Welcome to Our Neighborhood Academy

Founded in 2021, Our Neighborhood Academy is a fully accredited nonprofit organization that assists young adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities as they transition from a school setting to independent living. Our students learn real world skills in a safe, caring, and nurturing environment tailored to their needs.

Hear From Our Students

Mission

Our Neighborhood Academy’s mission is to provide young adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities access to a safe and nurturing space where they matter and belong, where they enjoy equal access and rights, and where they can broaden their skills, build social confidence, and gain a sense of independence, and enhance and explore their unique and true potential.

Vision

Our Neighborhood Academy’s vision is to provide diverse training experiences and independent living skills for young adults with special needs who live in our community. With guidance and dedication for each student, we will prepare participants for employment either at Our Neighborhood Academy or in a local business.

Building a Place Where Everyone Belongs

Our Story

ALLISON GREENE

Our Neighborhood Academy Founder

After teaching third grade, Allison Greene discovered her true calling: empowering young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to build meaningful, independent lives.

“I love it. I feel I was called to do the work here,” says Allison, who founded Our Neighborhood Academy in 2021 to meet a critical need in the community.

Too often, young adults with disabilities graduate from school and find themselves isolated—spending their days watching television or playing video games, with few opportunities for connection or purpose. Allison saw this gap and created a solution rooted in dignity, growth, and community.

A graduate of Hope College with a degree in Special Education, Allison designed Our Neighborhood Academy’s programs to focus on real-world life skills, job readiness, entrepreneurship, and personal development. The Academy’s storefront serves as a living classroom where students hang, tag, and sell items while engaging with local customers—gaining confidence and hands-on experience.

For Allison, success is measured in independence and self-worth.

“My hope is that people see how much our students have to offer. We are a safe, welcoming space where they are seen, valued, and supported.”

Transform Your Future Today

Take the first step toward growth, connection, and new opportunities. Schedule a visit to see how Our Neighborhood Academy can help you or your loved one thrive.

Our Programs

Explore our membership-based programs that prepare young adults with special needs for a more purposeful life after high school. These structured training programs offer participants a place where students learn and practice skills to help them contribute to their community.

See our feature on Fox 2 News

Begin your Journey

Join us for a complimentary first session