Our House
Overview
Our House is a non-profit organization based in Atlanta, Georgia, dedicated to breaking the cycle of homelessness by serving homeless families and children. Founded in March 1988, it was initially set up to provide reliable, free childcare to homeless families in the metro Atlanta area. Notable founders include Reverend Joanna Adams and a group of community volunteers. Over the years, the organization has expanded its scope and services, merging with Genesis Shelter in 2014 to enhance their support for homeless families.
Recent Developments
- November 2024: Our House held its annual virtual fundraiser, Wheels4Walls, aiming to raise awareness and funds for its cause. This event highlighted the ongoing commitment to innovate fundraising amid growing challenges in the non-profit sector.
- July 2024: Tyese Lawyer, President and CEO of Our House, was acknowledged for her leadership in expanding the organization’s impact in combating homelessness through innovative strategies and collaborations.
- July 2022: Community Advanced Practice Nurses (CAPN) merged with Our House, rebranding as Our House Health, to provide integrated healthcare services to over 3,000 individuals annually. This expansion is a significant step in addressing healthcare access challenges faced by the homeless.
- 2021-2022: Our House enhanced its Early Childhood Education (ECE) program, recognizing the need for developmental support among children affected by homelessness. This program aims to bridge the gap between these children and their housed peers.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | March 1988 |
| Headquarters | Atlanta, Georgia |
| Founders | Reverend Joanna Adams among others |
| Revenue | Not publicly disclosed |
| Profits | Non-profit organization |
| Key Investors | N/A (Non-profit organization) |
| Industry | Non-profit, Social Services |
| Number of Employees | Approximately 100 |
Early History
Our House was established in response to a critical need for childcare among homeless families in Atlanta. The organization was born from the empathy and insight of local volunteers who identified that the lack of childcare was a significant barrier for families attempting to escape homelessness. Initially focused on childcare, the organization aimed to alleviate the burdens faced by homeless parents, allowing them to secure employment and housing more effectively. Over time, it broadened its approach by addressing related issues such as education and employability skills.
Company Profile and Achievements
Our House operates on a model that integrates shelter, childcare, healthcare, and job training to support families experiencing homelessness. The major achievements of Our House include:
- Expansion of Services: In 2014, the merger with Genesis Shelter allowed Our House to serve a larger demographic of homeless families, specifically providing emergency shelter to mothers and newborns.
- Healthcare Integration: The integration with CAPN in 2022 created comprehensive healthcare services, emphasizing preventive care and chronic disease management for homeless populations.
- Innovative Educational Programs: The Early Childhood Education program is a cornerstone of their service, focusing on early literacy and social-emotional development, reflecting studies which show significant ROI on early childhood interventions.
- Job Training and Support Services: The organization offers job training programs that provide certifications recognized by industries, thereby increasing employment opportunities for homeless individuals.
Current Operations and Market Position
Our House currently operates multiple programs out of three Atlanta sites, focusing primarily on comprehensive support for homeless families with young children. Its aim is to mitigate homelessness's impact on child development while providing resources that foster family stability. The organization enjoys a strong position in Atlanta’s non-profit sector, driven by its holistic approach and broadened scope of services following strategic mergers. Our House impacts its community significantly by transforming lives through education, healthcare access, and job readiness programs.
Conclusion
Our House stands as a vital pillar in supporting Atlanta’s homeless families, illustrating the power of community drive to make systemic changes. Its holistic approach not only offers immediate relief but lays down sustainable paths towards self-sufficiency for families in need. With ongoing developments like the integration of health services and innovative fundraising, Our House is well-poised to expand its influence and continue its mission of breaking the cycle of homelessness. As it moves forward, it remains a beacon of hope and model of comprehensive care in tackling systemic poverty issues.