MIAMI VALLEY HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES

June 2022

From the CEO - Debbie Watts Robinson 

Dear Friends of MVHO,

On July 1st, MVHO starts a new fiscal year. Each “new” year, we renew our commitment to the mission to meet the housing needs of vulnerable citizens in our community. Every time MVHO assists with housing and services, there are opportunities for a fresh start and hope for the future. In this newsletter, you will read the story about William and how this hope gave him a glimpse of what he could achieve. 
 
We ask that you join us to create a stronger community for persons with mental illness or substance use disorders living on the streets, in shelters, or exiting homeless from prison or jail who qualify for MVHO housing. They often face a cycle of despair that is difficult to break out of without our programs and guidance. Your financial contributions support our mission to provide them with safe, affordable permanent supportive housing and supply for their basic needs. You can help us make a difference. Together we can help break the cycle!
 

All the best, 

Debbie

Helping the Homeless Have a Home

When you donate, MVHO will provide supplies to tenants and clients with little to no income. With your generosity, we can help meet their needs for cleaning and hygiene products, cookware, bedding, furniture, an emergency bus pass, or other essential household goods. Consider making your contribution a recurring gift. United, we help the homeless have a Home!

William's Success

A new chapter for William!

At age 55, William is excited about being able to file a tax return for the very first time! This new chapter in his life began after his release from prison in 2021. Denied housing due to his criminal background, the Community Transition Program (CTP) offered the support he needed. MVHO Reentry Program Director Penney Kramer and Case Managers Sherrita Stroud and Darren Cole assisted him with CTP services, including locating his housing.

William was overwhelmed with gratitude for the opportunity to participate in CTP because it gave him a glimpse of what he could achieve. Before his incarceration, he sold drugs, but now he never wants to go back to that life. Obtaining employment has given him a sense of peace and self-respect.

“This is just the beginning. I look forward to going to work every day, no matter how tired I am. For my remaining time, I want to have a good life. I want to purchase a home. I want to be there for my grandchildren. Tell Ms. Penney she saved my life!”

Board Trustee Spotlight

Todd Cochran, MVHO Board of Trustees, Executive Committee

Todd Cochran serves on the MVHO Board of Trustees as a member of the Executive Committee. His in-depth experience as a commercial real estate broker is invaluable in this leadership role. MVHO is fortunate to have his guidance and expertise!

As First Vice President with Colliers International, Dayton, Todd represents industrial landlords and tenants in the Greater Dayton market. Colliers International, a commercial real estate brokerage firm, has several locations worldwide. Todd achieves success for his clients through his attention to detail, approaching each project with enthusiastic energy, truthfulness at all times, and an exceptional work ethic. As a lifelong Dayton resident, Todd knows the market and people very well. 
 
In addition to his service as a Board Trustee, Todd has volunteered time with Hospice of Dayton and St. Mary’s Catholic Church and has served on the Board of Directors at the Dayton Area Board of Realtors. 

Project Clean 2022

Liz, Nicole, Brandon from Love is a Verb visit with MVHO staff Andy and Kimo (l to r)

Love is a Verb visits MVHO June 2, 2022

Liz, Nicole, MVHO CEO Debbie, and Brandon (l to r) 

MVHO is grateful for its new community partner, Love is a Verb, for their commitment to delivering Love Bins filled with toiletries and supplies for Project Clean!  MVHO thanks Brandon, Liz, and Founder and President Nicole Weaver for their site visit on June 2nd.

The MVHO homeless outreach team operates Project Clean four days a week to provide showers and laundry services to individuals living on the streets or in places not fit for human habitation. 

Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others. 

                                               - Booker T. Washington

Employee Highlight

New Hope Villa Director Bren Cary

Bren Cary with MVHO employee Frank Miller (l to r)

A special congratulations to Frank for fifteen years of service at NHV!

Bren Cary has been with MVHO for nearly twenty years and the last thirteen as the Director at New Hope Villa. His calm manner and easy way make for good leadership at this MVHO housing program for individuals with disabilities who are 50 and older.  

Bren said he chose his career path because he had an older relative with mental illness, and working for MVHO lets him be in service to others. Thanks, Bren!

MVHO Celebrates!

Administrative Assistant Ka'Tia Reynolds

The pandemic delayed the MVHO board and staff from gathering together as a group for more than two years. The organization recently celebrated accomplishments, service, and hard work with delicious food and camaraderie. Maintenance Director Willie Jones received a special award, and entertainment was provided by Tenant Services Specialist Johna Whitfield. A special thank you to MVHO Administrative Assistant Ka'Tia Reynolds for planning the event. Great fun for everyone! 

Recovery Housing 

MVHO provides oversight of recovery housing providers for ADAMHS of Montgomery County. This network supports people recovering from substance use so that they may have safe and sober living.

Brian Abram, MVHO Recovery Housing Administrator, visited the site of recovery home House of Restoration Community Solutions, LLC during resident lease signings and was inspired by what he saw. “The residents were excited about their fresh start in a completely remodeled home and were blessed to be a part of the pilot program with CountyCorp. This opportunity allows them to have a fresh start in life while continuing their journey of sobriety and being an inspiration for others. The residents have exemplified true dedication to bettering themselves and have used their community and resources to continue their path to success.”

Tewanna Hawkins, House of Restoration CEO, said they are housing individuals who are actively working on their recovery in a positive manner. Their program is at full occupancy!

It's as easy as swiping your perks card to support MVHO each time you shop at Kroger and Dorothy Lane Market.  Kroger and DLM donate from the sales to MVHO when you make us your charity of choice!  Sign up using the links or stop by customer service at the store. 

Shop online? You can order the same products through Amazon's charity site AmazonSmile, and MVHO will receive a donation from Amazon.