Earlier this month, Homeward Bound Villages had the privilege of welcoming Scott Huizenga to the site at Karwick Village. His dedication and support for Karwick Village have made the dream of affordable cooperative rental housing a reality in La Porte County. During his visit, he was generous in answering a few questions to share his connection to our affordable housing project and the family legacy that drives the family’s dedication to philanthropy.
How did you first hear about our project?
“Through Uncle John (Vander Wagen). I’ve always taken an interest in his work because he and Leigh (Coburn) have been dedicated to Homeward Bound for a long time, even before this (Karwick Village) current project started.”
What was it that called you to this initiative?
“Well, his (John’s) dedication really struck me. And my family has been involved with Habitat for Humanity quite a bit in the past, so I understood the concept. But when I heard that he was actually going to build homes and actually put a roof over people’s heads, that’s what really got me excited. You can see things that are tangible, and it’s totally different from other forms of support.”
What does it mean to you to step on site today at Karwick Village and see the progress?
“I’m so proud of him. Uncle John could be retired and living the life of Riley, but he’s got a passion for this. It’s the same with Leigh. It’s just a blessing that their involvement has been so continuous and steadfast.”
Can you tell us about the impact of early donations to the project?
John VanderWagen, Scott’s Uncle, answered,
“I want to tell you something important: when we informed him (Scott) of everything we were doing, the discussion of money never came up until he made his donation to us. It was that simple. That donation enabled us to do many things to keep the organization running. There are still expenses to deal with, including engineering firms, architectural firms, and legal costs. Without his initial donations, it would never have happened because we didn’t have the necessary financial means. In my humble opinion, the reason this project is successful is due to this young man (Scott).”
It sounds like philanthropy runs in your family. Tell us where it started.
“Absolutely. My dad set us up with a foundation, so all four of us kids get to participate. My dad’s hard work created the money for this, so it’s really his legacy. When he passed away in 2018, he left us a charitable lead annuity trust that will continue for a total of 15 years. It’s a blessing to be able to continue his work.”
What’s your greatest hope for Karwick Village and Homeward Bound Villages?
“Seeing people come in and find their new homes, that’s going to be a wonderful blessing. Homeward Bound Villages has such a beautiful mission of creating community through affordable housing. What drew me to help support the project is really that they’re living their mission. Even how they’ve oriented the property, it’s something really special that’s happening here.”
Tell us more about your family’s history with charitable work.
“My father’s cousin founded a charity called the Pantry of Broward, providing food and social services mainly for elderly Black women who have had to take in their grandchildren.
My father actually started what was probably the first homeless shelter in Broward County, and it’s still in existence today. He also got involved with the Salvation Army. My stepmom worked with the Broward County Humane Society. And my aunt was instrumental in starting the first hospice in South Florida. So I kind of follow my elders in this tradition of service.”
It sounds like service is truly a family tradition.
“We learn from our elders, that’s for sure. It’s incredible how our families become integrated through this work. We’re all connected by this desire to help others and make our communities better.”
We’re deeply grateful for supporters like Scott, who understand that affordable housing isn’t just about buildings, it’s about creating community and changing lives. Their family’s legacy of service continues to inspire and enable our mission at Homeward Bound Villages.
