When Ann Wilkinson looked at the future for her son, who lives with disabilities, she saw what too many families across the country see: institutional settings, rigid systems, and few paths toward a vibrant, independent life.
So, Ann built a new path—literally.
Ann is the founder of WeBUILT (We Build Unique Independent Lives Together) and Next Step Strategies, an Oregon-based community and nonprofit that empowers adults with disabilities to live independently in safe, supportive communities. In recognition of her visionary leadership, Ann has been awarded a 2025 Nation of Neighbors empowerment award and a $20,000 grant from Royal Neighbors of America.
“This award is a gift to our process,” Ann said. “We receive weekly calls from mothers across the country asking how they can build something like this. Now we’ll be able to create a comprehensive guide to help them get started, step by step.”
That guide, The WeBUILT Blueprint for Empowered Communities, will be the next evolution of Ann’s work. The grant from Royal Neighbors will fund the development of this living, customizable manual that will walk families and communities through everything from city planning and funding to creating inclusive housing models and staffing plans—all rooted in the belief that adults with disabilities deserve dignity, freedom, and community.
The impact of Ann’s work is already being felt far beyond Clackamas County. The current WeBUILT campus is home to 26 individuals with disabilities who now live in customized homes designed around their sensory needs, routines, and personalities. The community fosters friendships, personal agency, and joy—something not often found in traditional group homes.
WeBUILT Residents like Ciara Boyd now proudly say, “I have a home of my own.” For Ciara’s family, WeBUILT ended a 20-year search for a safe, nurturing environment.
But WeBUILT also empowers another group of women: mothers and caregivers. Many have left their careers to provide full-time care for their adult children. Mothers who once spent sleepless nights fearing for their child’s future now feel the peace of mind knowing that their son or daughter will live surrounded by friends, dignity, and choice. As one mother told Ann: “I can die now.”
Through Ann’s leadership, WeBUILT has become a beacon for a growing movement of women who are refusing to accept outdated care models. Her virtual mentoring groups and on-site tours help families dream bigger—and build stronger—together.
“Ann’s work is transformational,” said Zarifa Reynolds, CEO and President of Royal Neighbors of America. “She is redefining what independence looks like for adults with disabilities and creating space for mothers and caregivers to breathe, hope, and reclaim their own lives. That’s the heart of our mission—insuring lives, supporting women, and serving communities.”
As Royal Neighbors celebrates 130 years of impact, Wilkinson’s story reflects its ongoing commitment to recognizing women who lead with courage and compassion. In 2024 alone, Royal Neighbors delivered $43.8 million in social good impact across the country.
Ann’s work reminds us that when one woman creates change, the ripple effects can transform generations. “We’re not just building houses,” she said. “We’re building hope, independence, and love.”
To learn more, visit nextstepstrategies.org and webuilt.live.
