ASAP’s Board of Directors has expanded the organization’s original mission to meet the needs of people who are severely affected by autism. These individuals have recurring behaviors that manifest as self-injury, aggression and property destruction and their needs are unusually high. ASAP is absolutely committed to the challenge of helping these special individuals.

Rainbow House will be home for four area people who have been institutionalized and/or who are not being adequately served in their own communities. This unique program is designed to ensure the personal safety of this high-risk group, and will provide a wide range of therapeutic equipment and activities. 

BECOMING A REALITY...

ASAP is contracting with Anchorage Building Corp., (www.anchoragebuildingcorp.com) Chris Senior, who will oversee the entire construction process. Chris is accomplished in building “Green” and is incorporating many environmentally friendly aspects to this project. Rainbow House will have an Energy Star certification by a 3rd party energy rater. The home will use passive and active solar: passive solar, with the use of solar tubes will allow natural lighting throughout the common areas of the house. This will reduce utility costs, but more importantly, will benefit the residents. Active solar, with the use of solar panels will provide a zero-net-energy cost while providing energy for the community. Additional green features of the home are: geothermal heating and air, six inch exterior walls with Icynene insulation, conditioned attic and crawl space, low- E certified brand windows, on demand propane water heater, non-toxic paints, double layers of housewrap and bamboo flooring throughout.

ASAP is very excited to be working with Haven Custom Homes (www.havenhomes.com) who build superior quality homes in a climate controlled environment. This style of building assures accuracy that is difficult to accomplish with on-site builds and is extremely time efficient. Haven Homes is responsible for building the shell of the home including all cabinetry and counter tops, tub and shower facilities, light fixtures and much more. They are also very environmentally conscience as an Energy Star partner and the 1st modular builder to be Earth Craft certified.

As an adjunct to this type of build, ASAP residents will learn and participate in recycling, composting, and organic gardening. This will provide food for the home while building the self-esteem of all the people who live and work at Rainbow House.