Milestones
Early Formation
February 2022
Communities of Crocus (COC) was legally incorporated as a nonprofit organization focused on creating supportive housing and community for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
September 2022
COC received early media attention through an interview with founders Amy Hansel and Vince Vitrano, highlighting the organization’s mission and early planning efforts.
December 2022
COC raised its first $10,000 in initial funding to support organizational development and early planning.
Planning & Partnerships
April 2023
COC released its first introductory flier to formally share its mission, vision, and proposed housing concepts with families, community members, and potential partners.
May 2023
COC established key professional partnerships, including legal support from Husch Blackwell through its Communities for Change initiative and early design support from HGA Architects and Engineers through its Community Action Program.
Public Funding & Philanthropic Support​
May 2023
Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley approved $2.5 million in ARPA funding to support COC’s first housing development in Franklin, Wisconsin, as reported by Milwaukee Journal Sential and WTMJ4.
May 2023
Bader Philanthropies announced a $450,000 contribution toward land acquisition for the Franklin development. The announcement was covered by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel), (link Urban Milwaukee), and Milwaukee Community Journal).
August 2023
COC was featured in the Community Design Solutions semiannual newsletter through the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, highlighting planning progress and community partnerships.
Site Control & Development Progress
June 2024
COC secured site control of land in Franklin, Wisconsin, marking a major step toward future housing development. Continued coverage of the project appeared in Urban Milwaukee.
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Together, these milestones reflect a steady, community-driven approach to planning, partnerships, and long-term supportive housing development.