Summerhouse Houston

Summerhouse supports adults with IDD, their families, and our community through employment, volunteerism, and partnerships to foster a culture of belonging, choice, and respect. Our focus on services that are community-based, person-centered, and driven by our members’ individual strengths and interests is what sets our program apart.

Summerhouse was founded in 2011 by a mother, Donna Fruge, who has a daughter with an intellectual disability named Summer. The family could not find the right next step for Summer after high school. They wanted Summer to stay connected with her community and continue to develop work, social, and life skills, so Summerhouse was created. Since then, the program has grown into a one-of-a-kind service in our community. We develop strong relationships with our members, their families, and our community partners to promote the meaningful inclusion of adults with IDD in the Greater Houston area. We believe that our community is stronger when everyone participates.

Summerhouse offers community-based day services and supported employment services that are driven by the interests, needs, and strengths of those we serve. Members of our day services spend time in the community doing activities of their choice, including volunteering and participating in social activities, classes, exercise, and more. We offer a low member-to-staff ratio that allows our highly trained staff to best support our members. We accept new full-time members on a rolling basis as openings become available. Exceptions for part-time admission may be made on a case-by-case basis.

Through our supported employment program, we support members and referrals through the Texas Workforce Commission to find competitive, integrated employment. We also provide coaching to ensure long term success on the job. These services are highly individualized and one-on-one. We work to develop relationships with local employers to create employment opportunities that fit the skills and interests of those we serve. We accept new employment referrals through the Texas Workforce Commission, Workforce Solutions, Medicaid waiver programs, and private pay on a rolling basis.