Supporting Communities: Webster Bank Funds JESPY Expansion

Webster Bank’s Not-For-Profit Banking team recently provided financing to support JESPY House’s development of two new residential and program facilities in South Orange, New Jersey. This support enables the nonprofit organization to expand housing options and critical services for adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), helping them to live independently and thrive within their community.

Founded in 1978, JESPY House is dedicated to helping adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) achieve their full potential through a mission centered on independence, self‑direction, and community integration. The organization offers a comprehensive range of services, including residential support, day habilitation, athletics and fitness, work readiness, and clinical and behavioral health services.

Webster Bank’s partnership supports the development of two complementary projects designed to meet the needs of adults with IDD at different ages and stages of their lives. The JESPY Center will feature 20 aging‑in‑place opportunities and 26 affordable one‑bedroom apartments for individuals, along with space for clinical services, vocational training, and wellness programming. One notable feature of the aging-in-place floor is the elevated outdoor garden, providing access to fresh air and sunlight which promotes mental wellness, reduces stress, and encourages healthy aging. Nearby, The Hub will provide 20 residential opportunities for young adults building independent living skills, with shared living spaces, kitchens, and dedicated program areas such as a technology room, art and music rooms, a training kitchen, a sensory room, and community space. Together, The JESPY Center and The Hub will create new homes and supportive services for 66 adults of all ages living with IDD.

This transformational project is supported by JESPY House’s Go Big for JESPY campaign, launched by a matching gift challenge from philanthropists Toby and Leon Cooperman of The Cooperman Family Foundation. With the support of hundreds of donors ranging from $18 to seven-figure gifts, JESPY House is well on its way to securing the match in full.

Leveraging the expertise and experience of its Not-For-Profit Banking group, Webster Bank structured a flexible financing solution aligned with JESPY House’s mission, operational needs, and long‑term growth strategy—reinforcing the bank’s commitment to supporting nonprofit organizations that strengthen communities and expand access to inclusive housing.

“JESPY House is enormously grateful to Webster Bank for providing the support needed for this transformational project which will benefit all 400 of our clients who are adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities,” said Audrey Winkler, Executive Director at JESPY House.