What is HHP?
Our Mission and Vision:
Harmony Housing Partners (HHP) was formed by parents, educators, and caregivers of individuals with disabilities who worry and wonder about their future happiness: “What happens when the children I love, educate and care for become adults?” “Where will they call home?” “Will they continue to learn, mature, and thrive?” “How can I provide an option to living with aging parents?”
Modeled after the great work done by “Home of Our Own” and the development of Prairie Haus in New Glarus, HHP was created to assist in the development, funding, and operation of affordable residential housing for disabled adults to fulfill the dream of living independently in a community with residents of different ages and abilities. HHP will focus on the principles of integration and inclusion to strive to provide an enjoyable and stimulating living experience for all residents.
Housing is a human right- everyone is entitled to safe, happy, long term housing options, not just the opportunity to be placed on a long waiting list.
Who are the people behind HHP?
The Board of Directors is currently comprised of seven people with very personal and vested interests in the goals outlined above:
Ena Seiler Carson, Poynette/Rio (parent)
Debbie Fischer, Madison (educator/caregiver)
Michelle Kratz, Portage (educator/caregiver)
Mary Jean Seiler, Lancaster (grandparent/retired educator)
Ben Conklin, Madison (educator)
Denise Horn, Janesville (counselor/advocate)
JoEllen Haberlie, Milwaukee (educator)
Together, the Board has created a Wisconsin non-profit corporation, adopted Bylaws, elected Officers, and created two committees- Publicity and Fundraising.
What is HHP doing now?
HHP is publicizing their existence.
HHP will be engaging in regular fundraising efforts, including membership drives, food and bake sales, concession stands, silent auctions and fundraisers provided by local restaurants.
HHP will be identifying potential building sites in Northern Dane and Columbia Counties. The ideal location will be within Village or City limits, walking distance to many local amenities and employment opportunities. HHP is looking to work with a non-profit developer to identify and develop the site.
HHP has also identified properties which may be available to renovate for a smaller community with an opening date sooner than with a new development.
How can I help?
HHP needs dedicated people and funds to make this happen. First we want to spread the news of HHP’s mission and purpose throughout Wisconsin to future residents as well as potential community partners. Second, we need to raise funds to make these dreams a reality. Third, we need people with experience in a variety of fields to aid in each step from site location through development, to occupancy for residents and supportive care.
Publicity:
Share HHP’s mission and vision with friends, family, co-workers and social media pages.
Membership:
We are recruiting members to join HHP at the annual cost of $35. An HHP membership will provide you with a copy of the newsletter and updates on activities of HHP, attend board meetings, and be eligible to run for a seat on the Board of Directors and election as an Officer.
Business Sponsors:
Businesses who wish to support HHP can make yearly donations to achieve Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum Sponsorships.
Current Business Sponsors:
- 3C’s-Carson’s Classic Collections/Mike Carson
Rio WI - Main Street Youngsters
Poynette, WI - Kratz Funeral Home
Portage, WI - Miller Simonson Insurance
Portage WI
Volunteer:
We are seeking volunteers to serve on the Publicity and Fundraising committees or help with fundraisers.