Lacasa, Inc.

Help Your Team Build Strong Financial Foundations! Lacasa’s Master It Series empowers individuals with essential financial skills—from mastering credit to managing debt. Available both in-person and via Zoom, these expert-led classes are designed to fit busy schedules. Employers: Consider sharing this opportunity with your team! Financial education can reduce stress, boost productivity, and improve overall well-being. ?? Register today & take the first step toward financial success! ?? Learn more & sign up - https://lnkd.in/em6-d-i #FinancialEducation #StrongFoundations #Lacasa #MasterIt #EmployeeWellness

Yesterday, we gathered for our annual luncheon to celebrate the power of strong partnerships in creating lasting change. Together, we explored how housing is the key to stability, particularly through Permanent Supportive Housing, which provides a foundation for those who need it most. The luncheon was filled with powerful moments. Mychal, one of our tenants, and his mother, Vanessa, shared how Oaklawn Psychiatric Center's services and finding a home in our Permanent Supportive Housing have profoundly impacted his life. Pete McCown, President of the Community Foundation of Elkhart County, shared his personal story about his son’s journey through mental health challenges and homelessness—and the life-changing difference that safe, stable housing with Lacasa has made for him. We also had the honor of recognizing Galen Miller and Sue Neeb of Miller Amish Country Poultry with the Friend of Lacasa Award. In a heartfelt speech, Galen opened up about his own struggles in trying to stay positive in an uncertain world. He reminded us all of the power of giving to others and the hope it brings—not just to those in need, but to ourselves. A heartfelt thank you everyone who attended and special thank you to our sponsors: Lead Sponsors Community Foundation of Elkhart County, DJ Construction Company, Inc., Genesis Products, Interra Credit Union, Ken & Deb Julian, Lake City Bank, and THOR Industries, Inc. Event Sponsors 1st Source Bank, Ancon Construction , Bashor Children's Home, and Notre Dame Federal Credit Union Table Sponsors Assembly Mennonite Church, City of Elkhart, Indiana, Dana Miller Building Solutions, DOZ, Elkhart County Health Dept, Everence Financial, First State Bank, Gibson Insurance, Horizon Bank, Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA), MapleTronics, Surf Internet and WELLINGTON AND WEDDELL EYE CARE, PC . Together, we are unlocking brighter futures through safe, affordable housing.

At yesterday’s annual luncheon, we highlighted the power of collaboration in strengthening our community. Since 2011, Lacasa has built Permanent Supportive Housing to provide stable, permanent homes for those who need them most. Through our partnership, Oaklawn Psychiatric Center—a leader in mental health services—provides critical support to residents, helping them thrive. We’re honored to share the story of Mychal, a remarkable man whose life was profoundly changed by this housing. In the video below, he and his mother, Vanessa, offer a glimpse into their journey. Their story has inspired us, and we hope it inspires you too. #AffordableHousing #CommunityImpact #PartnershipsMatter

One week from our Annual Luncheon and we still have a few seats available. If you would like to register, you can do so at https://lnkd.in/g37n9Ggd. We would love to see you there!

It’s been a bustling week for Financial Empowerment, with 80 students taking meaningful steps toward strengthening their financial futures! As always, First Light Mission was very helpful and accommodating to host our classes in their location. We had a small but enthusiastic group with 4 people learning more about becoming homeowners and how to make their money stretch when making a large purchase. Also this week, we taught Master Homeownership (37 participants) and Master Your Credit (39 participants) at the Elkhart County Jail. We issued a total of 76 certificates to men and women who are preparing for a more financially stable future. Special thanks to the Elkhart County Sheriff's Department Program Director Sharon Lowry and the dedicated team who works with her. They are the driving force behind the coordination of these classes.

We are pleased to announce key leadership transitions that will enhance the organization’s ability to serve the community through affordable housing and financial empowerment initiatives. Alan Greaser has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer (COO), replacing Heidi Stoltzfus McHugh, who recently departed the organization. We wish Heidi well on her new adventure and thank her for her contributions to Lacasa. Brad Hunsberger has been promoted from Vice President to Senior Vice President of Real Estate Development. Aaron Lehman has been promoted from Director of Real Estate Development to Vice President of Asset Management. "These leadership transitions reflect both the strength of our team and our commitment to serving the community. Alan, Brad, and Aaron have each played a vital role in advancing Lacasa’s mission, and their leadership will ensure we continue to expand opportunities for affordable housing and financial empowerment. I am confident that their expertise and dedication will continue to drive meaningful impact as we work to create a stronger, brighter future for the individuals and families we serve right here in Elkhart County." - Jeremy Stutsman, President and CEO Lacasa ### See press release for full announcement : https://lnkd.in/gJKBDyNY

We are excited to announce our upcoming Annual Luncheon, scheduled for March 5, 2025, at noon. The event, presented by Lead Sponsors THOR Industries, Inc., Community Foundation of Elkhart County, Ken & Deb Julian, Interra Credit Union, Lake City Bank, and Genesis Products will take place at the Lerner Crystal Ballroom in Elkhart, filled with inspiring stories of partnerships creating impact across the county. Tickets for this event are now still available for purchase at https://lnkd.in/g37n9Ggd. Don't miss out on this opportunity to join us for a memorable gathering celebrating our mission and impact. Join us as we come together to support Lacasa and its vital work in our community. Together, we can make a difference.

Lacasa is proud to continue our partnership Oaklawn Psychiatric Center and announce we have been selected by CSH, the Source for Housing Solutions and Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) to participate in the 17th Indiana Supportive Housing Institute. Together, we will focus on creating high-quality, affordable housing paired with critical support services for people experiencing homelessness in Elkhart County. This opportunity will enhance our capacity to deliver much-needed housing solutions and make a tangible impact on our community. Read full announcement at https://lnkd.in/g7EbKANp

Over the past two days, we were honored to host Melford Ferguson, Senior Relationship Manager for NeighborWorks America. Melford met with Lacasa leadership to learn more about our current projects and toured our properties across Goshen and Elkhart. He also joined our staff luncheon to discuss Lacasa’s partnership with NeighborWorks America, which began in 2006 when we became a chartered member. This membership provides numerous benefits, including: ? Access to Funding & Grants ? Training & Technical Assistance ? Networking & Collaboration ? Performance & Impact Support We are thrilled that Melford spent this time with us and look forward to his future visits. #communitypartnerships #lacasa #neighborworksamerica #strongfoundation

This past weekend, we taught our first Master Homeownership class for the year at the Elkhart Public Library downtown. We had 14 enthusiastic participants in the class who learned about the homeownership process and asked some terrific questions. Thanks to our participants and our partners at the library for allowing us to use their space #financialempowerment #MasterItClasses #lacasa #elkhartindiana