After two years of meeting in various places throughout the Valley, the non-profit moved into a building at 517 Atterdag Road in Solvang and held an open house on June 15 to show off its new digs.
“We’re attempting to build community,” said Jim Billington, who created the organization with his wife, Julia.
The Billingtons, who have two autistic sons, originally founded Hidden Wings to help young adults with autism transition into life after high school.
“In society, the passion for autism is for cute babies,” Jim Billington said. “Once they get out of high school, there is a tremendously diminished amount of interest.”
The Hidden Wings curriculum provides several activities for its members, including therapeutic horseback riding, music therapy, kayaking, hiking, art, yoga and Pilates. All of the activities are meant to activate the senses and build a sense of socialization, Billington said.
Having an actual home now, according to Billington, only adds to that sense of community.
“By locating here, we’re in a community where we can be neighbors,” he said. “Our goal now is to develop their skills.”
Added Aimée Carroll, who coordinates the music programs: “It’s great to have a central location. We’ll still be drumming and kayaking and whatnot at Lake Cachuma and everywhere, but it’s a great meeting spot.”