“What will happen to my child when I am gone?”

This universal concern of parents with special-needs children is understood first-hand by the family of Andrew Guagenti, who founded Jacob's Village. Located in southwest Indiana and opened in 2004, the Village operates as a nonsectarian, private, not-for-profit residential community for adults with functional disabilities.

The vision for the Village has been inspired by people with special needs. There may come a time when the parents or siblings of those individuals can no longer provide for their care. Family members may reach a point when they must entrust their developmentally disabled loved ones’ nurturing to someone else... to someone who will walk alongside them on life's journey... to someone who will be as committed to their best interests as family would be.

Jacob's Village was established to provide families with just such a trusted partner. Our Village is designed to fulfill the wishes of caring grandparents, parents, and other caregivers all over the nation, by offering a quality choice for the continued support of developmentally disabled adults. The dream and prayer of Jacob’s Village is that everyone living here will enjoy a life rich in experiences and opportunities, in an environment shaped by Christian principles.

The staff-to-resident ratio here at the Village means our residents have the support system they need to lead lives filled with new opportunities and fun. Whether residents are learning tai chi, sharing picnics, going on outings to the zoo or to listen to musical groups, or participating in any other of an array of available activities, they are continually encouraged to expand their boundaries, to grow more self-sufficient and to live joyfully.

Through input provided by our residents and their families, our staff develops a Personal Development Plan for each resident. Those plans help us tailor the best programs possible to maximize the unique abilities, interests and goals of our residents. Thanks to the professional, caring staff we are blessed with, those who live here at Jacob’s Village benefit from an environment that fosters enjoyment, lifelong learning, independence and community involvement.

Jacob’s Village offers adults with special needs all the amenities of home as well as companionship, fun activities, and the support services needed to reach their full potential.

Contact us to obtain more information about Jacob's Village.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Jacob's Village?
  It is a residential community for adults with developmental disabilities. Jacob's Village provides a choice for families who are seeking alternative living arrangements for their family member.
• Where is Jacob's Village?
  Located on the northwest side of Evansville, JV offers a scenic, tranquil location for the residents. The total area is 132 acres with plenty of trees and natural habitat. To visit - Go West on Hwy. 66 as if heading to New Harmony. Turn right on Vienna Rd [.3 miles], turn left off Vienna onto Jacob's Village Drive, the Business Office is in the first home.
• Who is Jacob?
  Actually, Jacob's Village evolved as one man's solution to a problem. Andy Guagenti has a grandson, Jacob, who was born with Down Syndrome. The Guagenti family knows first-hand the universal concern of parents with special needs children: What happens when I am gone? Thus, the vision for Jacob's Village was born.
• Do many adults with disabilities live at home with parents/other caregivers?
  Nationally, there are over 700,000 adults with developmental disabilities living at home with caregivers aged 60 or older. In Indiana, there are over 14,000 adults with developmental disabilities living at home with caregivers aged 60 or older. Without a place to go, they will become adult "orphans" if they outlive their parents.
• What requirements are there for residency?
  - The minimum age requirement is 21.
  - A diagnosis of a mild to moderate developmental disability.
  - Mainly independent in daily care needs.
  - Minimal Medical needs.
  - Ability to meet the financial obligations.
• What is your goal/mission?
  Our mission is to support adults with developmental disabilities in their pursuit of developing life skills, interests, and maximum independence. JV offers a program of residential, vocational, educational and social support services in an environment that fosters life-long learning, self-sufficiency and dynamic community.
• What activities are residents involved?
  Residents are involved with activities that interest them: work at their jobs, church activities, gardening, going to the movies, visits to the zoo, family outings, etc. We assist them in getting to the places they normally go. For some people, coming to JV will be an opportunity for more socializing than they have previously been able to do.
• Why would a person choose Jacob's Village over living on their own?
  Every situation is different. JV is a choice for families whose "adult children" need a safe, secure home. The village offers all the amenities of home plus, it offers companionship, activities, and transportation.
• What are the homes like?
  The homes are beautiful and built with safety and security in mind! They were designed with ADA regulations as a priority. Wide doorways and hallways, roll-in showers, etc. Three homes have been built. One houses females; one houses males, and the third serves as the business office.They offer 4 private bedrooms and 2 semi-private baths. Lots of big windows over-looking the grounds.
• What is the long-term plan for Jacob's Village?
  JV is currently in Phase I of development. We plan to add three more houses (for a total of up to 6) and a community center/chapel in this Phase. Later phases at Jacob's Village include an expansion of residential and support service options. Jacob's Village envisions an integrated community of adults living on and sharing the grounds with the Developmentally Disabled. In time, it is hoped that the Village will provide on-site work opportunities, some commercial enterprises, and a large conference center.
• Are there any residents living there now?
  Currently we have seven residents - 4 women and three men.
• Are there any other facilities like Jacob's Village?
  There are other facilities like Jacob's Village, but not anywhere nearby. Jacob's Village is set up similar to other places such as Annandale Village in GA, Brookwood Community in TX, or Baddour Center in MS.
• Is this a non-profit organization?
  Yes, we are a 501 [c][3] non-profit. Presently we do not receive any government funding, but rely on donations. The Volunteer Board has put together a long-term strategic development plan and fund-raising plan including major gifts and an annual giving program.
• Do you need volunteers?
  Sure! We have many opportunities for volunteers. Youth groups, church groups, scout groups, garden clubs, and individuals have come to help us. Please call (or fill out the form on the web site) if you or your group is interested in helping out!
• Can I come for a tour?
  Please call to arrange for a time to visit us.
• How can I get an application?
  Call us at the office (812) 963-5198, or click here
• How can I make a donation?
  You can write a check to Jacob's Village or submit a donation online. The mailing address is P.O. Box 6368, Evansville, IN 47719-0368. We will provide a receipt for you.