Martin Stiftung in Erlenbach (Zurich) has been supporting people with cognitive disabilities for more than 130 years. Its mission: to create a home that provides security and belonging, promotes self-determination, and enables participation in society. Today, around 170 people live here – from young adults to senior citizens.
The foundation sees itself as a place of life where every person is recognized and encouraged to develop their abilities. In addition to diverse residential options, it offers protected workplaces and day-structure programs in both performance-oriented and non-performance-oriented forms of employment. This way, people with different abilities can find meaningful activities and experience purpose and inclusion.
With the new Rütibühl residential building above Herrliberg, the Martin Stiftung has expanded its services: it provides 32 residential and day-structure places for predominantly older people with cognitive disabilities and dementia, as well as for people with an autism spectrum disorder and particularly challenging behaviors. These individuals often encounter closed doors elsewhere. Rütibühl is designed to offer safety and calm while still fostering community.
The guiding principle “Anders mit Aussicht” – “Different with Perspective” – expresses the philosophy of the Martin Stiftung: people with disabilities should have opportunities and a future perspective, and be able to lead a life that is as normal and self-determined as possible – at the heart of an open and respectful community.
