Building Pathways to Independence | Vista Village

Leaders Praise Vista Village’s Transformative Model

On August 30, Vista Village was honored to welcome HUD Secretary Scott Turner, along with Ohio Senators Bernie Moreno and Jon Husted. We were grateful for the opportunity to share how structure, accountability and genuine care can open doors to lasting independence.

Secretary Turner shared, “During my visit, I witnessed first-hand how Ohioans are leading the way in addressing homelessness and housing affordability challenges. Vista Village checks all the right boxes in their approach to curbing homelessness — time limits, work requirements, affordable rent, commitment to sobriety, and wraparound services. All the above are needed to create paths to self-sustainability.”

A Celebration of Community and Connection

Just a few weeks later, on September 20, Vista Village came alive with music, laughter, and the joy of belonging during our first annual Block Party!

More than 125 residents, neighbors, friends, and supporters gathered to celebrate nine incredible months since opening our doors.

With delicious cuisine from local food trucks, games for all ages, and live music that kept everyone smiling, the day reflected the very best of who we are. The highlight of the afternoon?

Our founder, John Perez, took his turn in the dunk tank—proving once again that leadership at Vista Village comes with heart, humility, and a sense of fun.

The Block Party wasn’t just a celebration—it was a reminder that when people come together with compassion and shared purpose, community flourishes. Most touching were the moments when some of the residents met the sponsors of their homes: gratitude intersecting with compassion.

Gathered in Gratitude

On October 30 the Vista Village team gathered with donors and friends at the Columbus Foundation to provide an update on how far we’ve come since opening at the end of January. It was an evening of connection, reflection, and gratitude — made possible by the financial sponsorship of Scott Grotelueschen and Legacy Wealth Strategies (www.lws-llc.com).

Throughout the evening, residents and guests shared meaningful conversations, laughter, and stories that brought our mission to life. Seeing donors connect personally with the people whose lives they’ve helped transform was truly moving.

At one point, John told the audience, “We don’t have clients or residents at Vista Village. We have friends.” Moments later, Shawna, one of our ‘residents’ shared her story and added, “actually, we are far more family than friends.” With those words, Shawna touched the heart of what we hoped to see unfold here.