Celebrating Community Impact in Upstate South Carolina

News Summary

Homes of Hope, led by CEO Don Oglesby, is transforming the Upstate South Carolina community through affordable housing and essential life skills training. Since its inception in 1998, the organization has invested over $104 million, creating 703 homes and empowering individuals with vital job skills. They face challenges post-COVID but continue to adapt by exploring private capital and collaboration with local colleges. This initiative exemplifies the power of compassion and community spirit in creating positive change.

Celebrating Community Impact in Upstate South Carolina

In the heart of Upstate South Carolina, a remarkable initiative is making significant strides in addressing the need for affordable housing and essential life skills training. This mission is headed by the dedicated team at Homes of Hope, led by President and CEO Don Oglesby. His personal journey has infused this organization with passion and purpose, shaped by a life-changing experience at just 10 years old.

From a Near-Tragedy to a Lifelong Mission

Once upon a time, Don Oglesby found himself in a perilous situation when he was nearly swept away in a creek. Thanks to the heroic efforts of a young boy named Travis Fitz, Oglesby was saved from an unfortunate fate. While Oglesby never had the chance to thank Fitz, this childhood incident sparked a lifelong commitment to helping others escape perilous circumstances.

Homes of Hope: Making Dreams a Reality

Founded in 1998, Homes of Hope has dedicated itself to helping individuals and families break through the barriers that keep them from thriving. By providing affordable housing, job skills training, and resources for sobriety, the organization has invested over $104 million in the Upstate region. With a significant focus on community wellbeing, they are not only building homes but also weaving stronger communities.

A Growing Impact

To date, Homes of Hope has successfully constructed 703 homes in various locations including Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson, Columbia, Charleston, and Rock Hill. Excitingly, there are plans for an additional 155 homes, with 40 currently under construction in Berea and 88 more in Spartanburg. These homes are designed to be market-quality and energy-efficient, often around 1,300 square feet.

Empowering Lives through Education and Skills Training

Homes of Hope goes beyond just providing a roof over one’s head. The organization equips participants with vital skills through its transformative programs. Since inception, 335 men have graduated from Homes of Hope initiatives, securing jobs that pay a living wage, ranging from $22 to $25 an hour. Training is centered around construction, communication, and coping strategies, all aimed at fostering stability for both graduates and their families.

Building a Diverse Community

While addressing housing needs, Homes of Hope is committed to preventing poverty concentration by serving individuals across various income levels within their developments. Such integration supports a thriving community where stability is achievable for everyone involved.

Facing Challenges Head-On

In recent years, the organization has had to adapt to significant challenges posed by rising costs after the COVID pandemic, especially in terms of labor and materials. To sustain their efforts in affordable housing, Homes of Hope is exploring avenues like private capital and promoting impact investing. These strategies are vital in continuing the profound work they do for the community.

Collaboration for a Brighter Future

In a strategic move to enhance their educational offerings, Homes of Hope has partnered with Greenville Technical College. This collaboration aims to enrich the Men’s Workforce Development program, preparing participants even better for the job market.

Continuing the Mission

Don Oglesby, with his background in comptrolling and a previous career in real estate, leads Homes of Hope with a deep understanding of both financial management and community service. The organization is unwavering in its mission and continues to adapt as the housing market evolves, ensuring that their services meet the changing needs of the community.

In the end, Homes of Hope is a shining example of how compassion, commitment, and community spirit can bring about positive change, paving the way for a brighter future for countless individuals and families in the Upstate region.

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Additional Resources

• Greenville Online: Better Housing, Better Life
• Fox Carolina: Federal Funding for Affordable Housing Units
• Post and Courier: Greenville County Affordable Housing Policy Changes
• Wikipedia: Affordable Housing
• Fox Carolina: Greenville’s Use of Tourism Taxes for Affordable Housing