Welcome to our home!
The Amigos are five men who experience developmental disabilities. We have formed a joy-filled, welcoming community within Leavenworth, Washington.
Our Story
The Dwelling Place, in Leavenworth, Washington, is the home of five fantastically joyful, developmentally disabled men: Matt, Chris, Eric, Christopher, and Alex.
John and Kathy Bangsund founded The Dwelling Place in their own home in 2002. They were inspired by their son, Matt, to create an Adult Family Home to provide lifelong care for Matt, and other men like him.
One by one, Matt was joined by "brothers of the heart.” The house grew, too, as additions and expansions made room for new brothers and more space for visiting friends!
Thus, the brotherhood, which dubbed itself The Five Amigos, was born.
Empowering their present and securing their future.
The Dwelling Place provides this group of longtime friends with meaning, purpose and community by caring for their physical, mental, and spiritual needs. We also partner in facilitating their community employment, while keeping the primary goal of a warm, nurturing, and joyful home at the forefront.
The Bangsunds formed a Board of Governors with business leaders and other people in the community who know and love the Amigos. These fine men and women help to guide and secure The Dwelling Place legally and financially, and are among its most passionate advocates.
Men who love their community, and a community who loves them.
Following John’s passing in 2018, Kathy continues as administrator alongside a dedicated, highly qualified, part-time and full-time staff. These men and women don't see The Dwelling Place as simply their job, but as an opportunity to be members of a vibrant, inclusive, loving community overflowing with hugs and laughter.
It's not unusual to see The Five Amigos around the valley as they do their part to contribute to their community.
Perhaps you will see their friendly smiles as they ride the shuttle bus, work hard at meaningful jobs, visit the gym, library, and grocery stores, or worship at their churches.
The Dwelling Place also opens its doors to neighbors and the wider community for UNO game nights, patio picnics, an occasional ice cream social, and the famed New Year's Eve Party.
