Wayfinders Ohio Sets Up Agency Fund
By Maura Teynor
December 13, 2022
(Photo: Foundation President Brady Groves and Wayfinders Ohio Director Kelly Blankenship)
Harmony House Homeless Services, now known as Wayfinders Ohio, set up an agency-endowed fund to support the organization in the future.
The rebranding effort coincides with a new direction.
Wayfinders Ohio Director Kelly Blankenship said they engaged Source Brand Solutions to help with a rebranding effort. “The new name encapsulates the essence of what we do which is to help people find their way,” said Blankenship.
Harmony House Homeless Services has been in operation since 1990. Vicki Kane was the first director. Kane retired and Blankenship has been leading the organization since 2018.
“We established the agency-endowed fund because we do not have dedicated funding. Other agencies rely on levies, we do not have that luxury, “said Blankenship.
“This agency fund will help us diversify our funding.”
Wayfinders Ohio has a six-member board, Gene Parkison is the chairman.
“The board responded favorably and quickly to the idea of an agency fund,” said Blankenship.
“Gene provides the leadership and skills we need as an organization. He also has the knowledge and history of the organization.”
Services Provided by Wayfinders Ohio
- 58-bed facility for emergency shelter in a safe, clean atmosphere
- Capacity for 36 women and families and 22 men
- Full-service kitchen, meals, food, laundry services, personal care items, toiletries, and bedding
- Comprehensive case management, which includes referrals to community resources and setting and following goal plans
- Assistance in resolving education, employment, medical, mental health, legal, and housing issues in a supportive and caring environment
- Weekly Job Readiness and Life Skills training
- Transportation for job searches
- Aid in securing permanent, stable housing
- Financial assistance with rent and security deposit
