Onward summer wrap-up: Empowering growth, celebrating milestones, and embracing new beginnings

By Tricia Wright
executive director

It has been a busy summer at Onward! Here are a few updates. 

In the house

This image shows a young woman carrying a box, preparing to move.

One of our residents is preparing to move into her own apartment this fall after two years with us. Our program manager has been working with her to tour apartments and prepare for this transition.

During her time at Onward House, she started a new career and mastered essential financial and independent living skills. She’s been budgeting, saving, building credit, and investing - all paving the way for her bright future.

Another resident completed high school in June and started a new job at a childcare center over the summer. She shared, “Working at the childcare center is going great. It’s one of the best jobs I’ve ever had. It feels like a job that’s not a job. I’m getting to know the parents. It’s amazing being part of a community. It’s good to work where my love, passion, and heart is.”

We are excited for them to take these important next steps!

In the community

We’ve been gathering feedback about our growth plans from our supporters via individual conversations and an online survey. In the fall, we’ll share a summary of what we heard.

In addition, we’ve continued to grow new connections in the community. We recently met with the Chanhassen Rotary Club, participated in Eden Prairie’s PeopleFest! event, and attended a meeting of Eden Prairie’s Community Engagement Impact Council.

The image captures a moment during the congregational vote at Immanuel Lutheran Church in June 2024.

Taking ownership

In June, Immanuel Lutheran Church members voted to transfer ownership of Onward House to us. The transfer was completed on July 31, 2024.

This is an important step that will position us for future growth.

This image is the cover of the book Acceptance: A Memoir.

Come to our book club

We’re having the first meeting of our new Next Chapter Book Club on September 23, 6:30-8:00pm at the Eden Prairie Library. The book is Acceptance: A Memoir by Emi Nietfeld. Our former board president, Kim Rathjen, will lead the discussion. You can RSVP here. 

Thank you for your support. Together, we’re empowering individuals to build strong, independent lives.

Let’s continue to make a difference!