It takes a team of passionate, committed individuals who are willing to do whatever it takes to bring a vision like Coral Reef to life. One of those people is Jason Madden.

In January 2025, he officially joined the board of directors, and later in the year, became Coral Reef’s first official employee. Now, Jason is helping lead the charge by bringing founder Connie’s vision into focus.

Leading With Optimism and Purpose

When asked what inspires him about Coral Reef, Jason doesn’t hesitate: opportunity. The opportunity for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to live in a safe, supportive community designed just for them, where independence and belonging go hand in hand.

What motivates him most is imagining Coral Reef’s future residents living with dignity and autonomy. “Choosing how to spend their day, building friendships and being part of a community where they truly belong,” he shared. “It’s incredibly powerful to imagine these young adults experiencing the same joy, freedom and connection as their peers because they deserve nothing less.”

Connie describes Jason as “the helpful and optimistic human being in her life,” and it’s clear that optimism is more than a personality trait. It’s part of how he leads. With a background in relationship-building and community development across Michigan, Jason brings a sense of energy and resilience that helps move the vision forward — even when challenges arise.

Turning Vision Into Progress

Since stepping into his new role, Jason has helped guide Coral Reef from big ideas to concrete next steps. What began as a dream is now supported by finalized building designs, secured land to build and a feasibility study in motion. Coral Reef has also brought together a team of trusted partners, including Fiduciary Financial Advisors, PURE Architects and Telosa Consulting, as well as a dedicated advisory committee made up of community leaders and families of young adults with IDD.

“The commitment and perseverance of everyone involved, from the early ‘napkin idea’ to where we stand today, have been nothing short of remarkable,” Jason said.

Thanks to that collective effort, the Coral Reef vision is becoming a real, physical place designed with purpose.

Thoughtful Design Rooted in Real Lives

Through his past leadership at Hope Network Foundation and his time with Coral Reef, Jason has developed a deep understanding of how thoughtful, person-centered design can transform lives. And he’s quick to point out that it’s the small details that make the biggest difference.

“From space planning and safety to furniture textures, paint colors, lighting, and sound — every detail matters, especially when you’re designing for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” he explained.

Jason emphasizes that design isn’t only about functionality — it’s also about creating the comforts of home. Warm, welcoming spaces where residents feel relaxed and at ease are just as important as safety features or accessibility.

Additionally, he approaches each part of the project with curiosity and humility, knowing there’s always more to learn. That’s why Coral Reef is engaging families with lived experience to help guide the process so that every design decision is grounded in the real, everyday needs of future residents.

“This is not a one-size-fits-all project, and that’s exactly what makes it so meaningful,” Jason explained. “With the input of local families, alongside Connie and her family’s vision, we’re building something truly exceptional.”

Looking Ahead With Hope

Jason’s passion for this work runs deep, but so does his belief in what’s possible when people come together with a shared purpose. “I am a born leader with a deep passion for people, community and the power of change. And I believe the best is yet to come.”

It’s that steady optimism, paired with years of experience and a heart for service, that makes Jason such a vital part of the Coral Reef team. As the project continues to gain ground, his leadership is helping ensure that the Coral Reef community isn’t just thoughtfully designed — it’s deeply rooted in dignity, belonging and love.

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