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History of Sweetwater Spectrum

Autism is the fastest growing developmental disability in the United States, affecting 1 in 36 children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In the coming decade, as many as 500,000 children with autism will reach adulthood, yet very few residential options exist to support them.

In 2009, a group of families with children with autism collaborated with professionals and civic leaders to found a non-profit organization with a vision: to design and build a residential community for adults with autism and other developmental disabilities unlike anything available today. Since opening our doors in January 2013, we have grown, evolved and remain dedicated to providing a model for the nation’s families, who are struggling with the lack of housing options for their adult children.

An explicit goal is to provide these autistic adults a “life with purpose.”

Our community leverages and optimizes the insights and knowledge gained through autism research while embracing sustainable design and best practices. We have created a residential environment that reflects the beauty and spirit of the surrounding area while utilizing supported living services in close collaboration with the North Bay Regional Center.

Created as a pilot community, and now operational for over 10 years, Sweetwater Spectrum is one model for community-based housing that works. Click here for our resources to help create special needs housing in your community.

MEET THE SWEETWATER SPECTRUM TEAM

Board of Directors

Mortimer Hartwell

Staff

Olivia Vain

Executive Director

Olivia Vain serves as the Executive Director of Sweetwater Spectrum, bringing a wealth of experience in program management and advocacy for individuals with developmental disabilities. Olivia began her work with people with developmental disabilities after growing up with an uncle who had cerebral palsy and around-the-clock care. With more than 15 years of experience in developmental disability support, she joined the Sweetwater Spectrum leadership team in March 2022. Since then, she has been instrumental in advancing the organization's mission to create innovative housing solutions for adults with autism.

Olivia's journey with Sweetwater Spectrum began in 2017 when she collaborated closely with the organization on key operational initiatives. Prior to her current role, Olivia held a leadership position at a local Supportive Living Service Agency, where she managed a diverse portfolio of programs exceeding $5 million. Her tenure there was marked by her ability to foster strong stakeholder and donor relationships, essential for sustainable program growth and community support.

With a background in program management, Olivia has spearheaded the development and implementation of various housing options tailored to the unique needs of individuals with autism across Sonoma and Marin County. Olivia advocated for funding for livable wages and funding for supportive services. Her emergency preparedness and problem-solving skills were proven through her tireless efforts during the pandemic and California wildfires to facilitate safety planning and evacuations and provide resources for people supported by her programs. Furthermore, she has demonstrated proficiency in overseeing funding and program finance, managing a substantial $30 million annual budget with precision and accountability.

She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Psychology, complemented by a Master of Science in Psychology and a Master of Public Health. This interdisciplinary education has equipped her with a deep understanding of behavioral and public health dynamics, which is invaluable in shaping comprehensive support frameworks at Sweetwater Spectrum.

As Executive Director, Olivia supports empowerment within the autism community, driving forward initiatives that prioritize independence, wellness, and community integration. She collaborates with other non-profits to create volunteer opportunities for residents and further community involvement. Additionally, Olivia diligently works as the first contact for replication consulting services to help people looking to develop housing intentionally designed for people with developmental disabilities. She consults at all levels of development through replication support and links like-minded people in the community to support each other. Her replication work has inspired or resulted in 12 different supportive living residential communities for adults with autism, in addition to helping another ten groups in early-stage planning.

Olivia holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Psychology, a Master of Science in Psychology and a Master of Public Health.

Jennifer Seago

Development Manager & Executive Administrator

Danielle Beale

Enrichment Manager

Ashley Mitchell

Property Management & Site Administrator

Additional Resources

Financials