ABOUT US
Empowering Independence, Building Inclusive Communities
For more than 50 years, Creative Living has provided affordable, wheelchair-accessible housing for individuals with physical disabilities who aspire to further their education, build careers, and make meaningful contributions to their communities. Supported by dedicated staff and a 24-hour on-call Resident Assistance Program, residents are empowered to live independently and lead full, productive lives.
Long before the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was enacted, Creative Living pioneered one of the nation’s only long-term, affordable supported housing models of its kind. By combining accessible housing with personalized support, the organization has helped residents achieve greater independence, inclusion, and opportunity for more than five decades.
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OUR VISION
Inspired. Empowered. Independent.
Creative Living builds communities where adults with physical disabilities live with independence, dignity, and purpose. With 24/7 on-site support in campus-based settings, we offer a life-affirming alternative to nursing homes and family caregiving—empowering residents to pursue education, build meaningful careers, and stay connected to community life.
The Power of Many Inspired by One
OUR HISTORY
Over 50 years ago, Richard “Max” Maxwell helped inspire the founding of Creative Living through his belief that people with disabilities deserve the same opportunities for independence, choice, and community as everyone else. At a time when few supports existed and decades before landmark disability rights laws were enacted, Max, together with a dedicated circle of family and friends, championed a vision of inclusion and possibility. Their determination laid the foundation for Creative Living and created a lasting legacy of advocacy, dignity, and opportunity that continues to empower individuals to live independent, meaningful, and connected lives today.
OUR STORY
A Vision Born From Experience
Creative Living's story began within The Ohio State University community and was inspired by the determination of Max. After an intramural football injury left him paralyzed, Max experienced firsthand the barriers people with disabilities faced in pursuing higher education and independent living. He dedicated his life to expanding opportunities and accessibility for students and adults with physical disabilities, helping create a future where independence was possible.
