Last month, our project transitioned from completing Phase 1 of construction to preparing for Phase 2. With this transition came new goals, the primary goal being to raise the needed funds for the Karwick Village Community Center. This building is where the heart of the Karwick Village Co-Op will beat, and by that, we mean this is the gathering space shared by the community to learn, govern, and grow as a community. Since moving in in late 2025, Karwick Village residents have not had this space, but the need is evident.
A Gift Built on Commitment
We came into this fundraiser with a generous sponsor, the First Source Foundation, which approached Homeward Bound to partner and make the Community Center happen. Their generous gift launched our fundraiser. As we launched, another generous gift was given, which we felt deeply in our hearts. John Vander Wagen III joined Foundation Sponsor. John, as we know him, is one of Homeward Bound Village’s co-founders. His gift represents the unwavering commitment to creating community through affordable housing, which is Homeward Bound’s mission. Not only did his generous gift significantly move the needle for this fundraiser, but it is also a vote of confidence and support from someone who recognizes the need for this building for Karwick Village.
What John’s Gift Makes Possible
Early support like this does more than move a number; it directly strengthens our ability to launch Phase 2 at Karwick Village and build the Community Center. Gifts at this level help us plan ahead by considering construction costs and schedules, and by aligning staff and support to see this part of the project through. This gift allows Homeward Bound Villages to serve the residents of Karwick Village by providing space for the community to deepen its impact and meet growing demand as the co-op expands.
This gift also creates stability. When sponsors arrive early in a campaign, their commitment allows our team to plan with confidence and to invest in Phase 2 of this project, creating a space for Homeward Bound to live their mission every day, and giving the residents of Karwick Village the space where community fosters and grows.
Community that Builds Community
As we mentioned earlier, our fundraiser is off to a healthy start, but that is only because of the gifts like John’s, and those from the First Source Foundation, along with the other generous sponsors who not only believe in the importance and impact of this project but have chosen to stand in commitment with Homeward Bound Villages to change lives and create a strong community.
A Strong Start, A Shared Finish
We’re a quarter of the way to our $120,000 goal, and that early momentum is an invitation. The early leaders and partners who gave first have set the pace; now there’s room for the whole community to join what comes next. Every gift, no matter the size, moves us closer to building the Karwick Village Community Center, a place where the Karwick Village Co-op will grow, bond, and live as a community. We invite you to donate, sponsor, or give a gift in kind if you can, because creating community through affordable housing doesn’t only happen at Karwick Village; it happens when we, as a community, step in and provide support. Click the button below to learn more.
