Phases of Inn Along the Way
(Previously submitted to Lincoln County News)
By now you've probably read a few articles about Inn Along the Way, heard people talk about it, maybe you've even seen the sign. Let's delve a little more into the community planned for this Inn situated on the historic Chapman farm on Main Street in Damariscotta.
There are five phases of development. Development is taking in place in order from Main Street back toward the woods that surround the property.
Pre-construction began in 2013 and ran through 2018 with the establishment of the board and included the awarding of the 501C designation, raising funds for purchasing the property, purchasing the property, and accomplishing all approvals and inspections.
The current phase will result in the renovation of the farm house, the Inn. When complete, the first floor will have two ADA compliant guest rooms with private baths. There will also be sitting rooms available for guests or public groups to meet. In addition, there will be a kitchen and a cafe. These areas can be used by people from the area or those in need of respite.
Completion of the following phases will see the building of respite cottages on the property as well as twelve rental cottages for older adults. The respite areas will be available at no cost to the caregiver. The rental fee of the other cottages will be available on a sliding scale basis.
Besides paying rent, what will be required of the inhabitants of these homes? They will need to agree to give some hours to the community of the Inn.
Those hours may include working in the gardens, stamping envelopes for mailings, or visiting with one another. They are the first line of support for each other in the community. Another requirement for those living in the cottages is a willingness to offer and receive support to and from the others.
The expectation that living in this interdependent-collaborative community will mean living a healthier life. Living in community can mean less loneliness and can lead to a more fulfilling life.
For many of us that requirement of being willing to receive support from others is one of the most difficult things we face. After all, we don't want to be a burden. That is the beauty of Inn Along the Way.
We are supporting each other. There is no burden.
Rosalyn Carter once said;
There are only four kinds of people in the world.
Those who have been caregivers.
Those who are currently caregivers.
Those who will be caregivers, and those who will need a caregiver.
Once we accept this we are better able to realize that we are all an integral part of any supportive, thriving community which is the vision of Inn Along the Way.
