Tall Tales Ranch: Financing a First-of-Its-Kind Inclusive Community
Author: Jennifer Luce, Senior Vice President, Business Banking, PNC Bank
Tall Tales Ranch is probably one of the most meaningful developments we've had the honor of financing. The project combines affordable housing with a mission-driven model designed specifically for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Located in Lone Tree, it will deliver 28 income-and-rent-restricted residential units as part of a first-of-its-kind neuro-inclusive community residents can live independently, build relationships, access employment opportunities, and fully participate in community life.
For example, Tall Tales Ranch will feature “The Barn”, a community and event space that will not only bring residents together but will also serve as the home of Tall Tales Coffee Company, where individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities can work and gain independence. While it’s currently under development, Tall Tales Ranch is expected to welcome residents in Spring 2028.
PNC provided $2.9 million in construction financing toward the approximately $22 million development to help bring this vision to reality.
But what makes the project especially remarkable is the collaboration behind it and the many talented women that brought it to life. Tall Tales Ranch brings together nonprofit leadership, in-kind contributions, grants, and financing as well as engineering and design support from fellow CREW Denver members, including Eva Mather of Norris Design and Jenni Kelly of Anchor Engineering.
For those of us in commercial real estate, it's a powerful example of how creative financing and strong partnerships can create developments with meaningful impact.
Inside Tall Tales Ranch: From Family Vision to Groundbreaking.
Tall Tales Ranch was founded in 2014 by Pat and Susan Mooney, whose experiences with their son, Ross, inspired them to envision a more inclusive future for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. What began as a family's vision has grown into a development effort supported by nonprofit organizations, businesses and real estate professionals.
Designed for Independence and Connection
The planned four-acre campus in Lone Tree is expected to accommodate up to 32 residents, with a mix of primarily one-bedroom and some two-bedroom apartments.
Located near the RidgeGate Parkway light rail station, the development offers access to regional transportation, an important consideration for residents who may rely on public transit for employment, shopping and everyday activities.
The campus will also feature accessible walking paths, gardens, shared outdoor spaces and areas for recreational and life-skills activities, extending opportunities for engagement beyond residents' individual homes.
Building Employment Opportunities Before Opening Day
Tall Tales Coffee Company is already advancing the organization's employment mission through a mobile coffee operation that provides paid work and hands-on experience for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Participants gain practical experience in customer service, communication and workplace responsibilities, helping them develop skills and confidence that can translate into future employment opportunities.
Tall Tales Ranch has also established relationships with local employers and community organizations to expand opportunities for meaningful employment.
From Vision to Groundbreaking
The Schweiger Ranch Foundation has supported the development through a land lease for the project site, providing an important contribution to the overall effort.
On August 12, 2026, Tall Tales Ranch officially broke ground, marking a major milestone in bringing the long-planned residential community closer to reality.
