Loveland Center just marked a big moment in its history, cutting the ribbon on the expanded Senator Nancy C. Detert Residential Community. This new chapter includes two additions: the Independence Villas and the Equality Lofts. Both additions are designed to help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, seniors, and members of Sarasota County’s nonprofit workforce live with greater independence and stronger connections to their community.
The celebration brought together residents, their families, community partners, and supporters, all gathered to share in the excitement and the vision for more accessible and dignified housing.
The Independence Villas sit at the front of the campus. They offer a quiet, supportive setting, close to everything Loveland Center offers: programs, amenities, and that sense of belonging. Each villa includes two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a full kitchen, a private lanai, and accessibility features throughout. These homes are affordable for people earning about 60% of the area’s median income.
But it’s not just about the walls and floors; residents find access to therapies, the performing arts, dining, recreation, and supported living services through Loveland’s partners. Residents also receive a significant benefit with provided transportation, featuring on-site parking and Breeze+ service that goes right to the door. Service and emotional support animals can come too, and regular community events tie everyone together.
At the heart of the campus, the Equality Lofts overlook the lake. With both one- and two-bedroom layouts, these apartments are all about community. Residents here live independently but always have social connections close at hand, whether through shared spaces, arts, or wellness programs. Like the Villas, the Lofts are fully accessible, with elevators to make moving around easy. Every building features laundry facilities and a private resident community room, made for get-togethers. With affordable rents, easy access to therapy, recreation, and a vibrant schedule of campus events, the Lofts are lively spots within the SNCDRC. They also meet transportation needs with parking and Breeze+ service, and they welcome animal companions.
Loveland Center doesn’t walk this journey alone. The expansion bears the names of Brent and Stacy Pinkerton (Building B) and Steven and Rendenta Picazio (Building A), honoring their support. Special thanks went to Boone Law Firm for pro bono legal services, Half-Acre Construction for building the lifts, and MPS Construction for their work on the Villas. The event also recognized the ongoing support from the Sarasota County Commission, Bob and Terry Lewandowski, several Florida legislators, and Governor Ron DeSantis.
No one received deeper appreciation than Senator Nancy C. Detert. Her vision and commitment made this community possible. She spent her life advocating for Loveland Center and other social service groups, making a difference that will last well beyond her time. Senator Detert passed away before the expansion was complete, but her family was there to accept the honor on her behalf.
Stories and laughter filled the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Residents like Sandy S., Ben K., Brianna W., and Vanessa F. were there to share the joy. Brianna’s shout, “Go Loveland!” captured the mood. Sandy said, “I’m so excited to be here in my new home, my new villa. I’m a VIP and everything is nice.” CEO Patrick Guerin III summed it up best: “The initial dream here was to do something different,” and Loveland Center has delivered, bringing to life a place where people can live with true independence and belonging.
The expansion of the Senator Nancy C. Detert Residential Community keeps pushing forward Loveland’s work, creating places where everyone can belong, grow, and lead self-directed lives.
Since 1962, Loveland Center has helped people with intellectual and developmental disabilities build life skills, pursue education, find jobs, and live independently. Their mission: help every individual live life to the fullest by promoting independence and self-advocacy.
To learn more about Loveland Center and its programs, visit www.lovelandcenter.org or email info@lovelandcenter.org.
