Lives Transformed at Dana Village
At Dana Village, affordable housing is just the beginning. Through supportive services, transportation assistance, community engagement, and caring relationships, residents are building brighter futures every day. Your support helps create a place where people can find safety, stability, and hope.

Stories of Impact
A Fresh Start Without Missing a Step
Within her first week of moving from Lincoln to Dana Village, a young resident secured two jobs, one in fast food and another in retail. She was relieved to avoid any interruption in income and is excited to build her future while becoming an active part of the Blair community.
The Gift of Safety and Independence
After receiving the keys to her first apartment, a young adult resident worked her overnight shift and returned home at 4 a.m. with no furniture, only a blanket. She slept on the floor that night, grateful simply to be safe and living independently. Today, she has furnished her apartment and takes pride in making it her own.
Regaining Mobility and Freedom
A veteran resident recently received a mobility scooter through local veteran services. As he gained confidence navigating the community, staff watched him embrace a renewed sense of independence. He is now often seen enjoying morning and evening rides around the property.
A Bed of His Own
After spending a year sleeping on an air mattress, one resident received a donated mattress and bed frame. The simple gift brought tremendous joy and dignity. He proudly makes his bed each morning, thankful for a comfortable place to rest.
Finding Purpose Through Leadership
One young resident serves as Dana Village’s monthly BINGO coordinator. She takes great pride in organizing the event, calling numbers, and helping create a fun experience for her neighbors. Her role has strengthened her confidence and sense of belonging.
Building Connections Across Generations
During a community meal, a resident learned that one of the church volunteers serving dinner had lived at Dana during her college years. The resident immediately felt a connection, sharing that she also loves calling Dana Village home. Moments like these create meaningful relationships and a stronger community.
Transportation That Opens Doors
For one parent, the Dana Village transportation program makes employment and childcare possible. Each day, the Dana Van helps the family reach a daycare where the parent works while the child learns and plays. Until they can purchase a vehicle of their own, reliable transportation is helping them move toward greater independence.
Neighbors Helping Neighbors
Dana Village residents regularly share their talents with one another. From affordable manicures to assistance with basic car repairs, residents support each other through creativity, entrepreneurship, and acts of kindness that strengthen the community.
A Place to Celebrate Life’s Moments
The community gathering space serves as the heart of Dana Village. In just one month, it hosted birthday parties, a baby shower, family visits, educational workshops, community meals, and countless conversations that foster friendship and support.
Learning Skills for Long-Term Success
Young adults at Dana Village receive practical coaching on everyday challenges, including budgeting, banking, job applications, workplace communication, and navigating important life decisions. Trusted case managers provide guidance that empowers residents to grow in confidence and self-sufficiency.
Compassion Through Every Life Transition
When an older resident recognized the need to move from independent living to a care facility, the Dana Village case management team worked closely with her to ensure a smooth transition. She was treated with dignity, respect, and compassion as she moved into a new living setting and began the next chapter of her journey.

Your Support Makes This Possible
Every story at Dana Village reflects the impact of generous supporters who believe everyone deserves a safe place to live, opportunities to thrive, and a community that cares. Through Lutheran Family Services, donor support helps provide housing stability, transportation, case management, life-skills coaching, and meaningful connections that empower residents to build stronger futures. Together, we are creating a community where hope can take root and lives can flourish.
Ready to Learn More?
The stories of Dana Village are stories of perseverance, opportunity, and hope. Thanks to the support of generous donors, residents are finding safe housing, building independence, developing new skills, and creating meaningful connections that strengthen their futures.
To learn more about Dana Village or explore how your support can make an even greater impact, please contact:
Ed Shada
Dana Village, Founder
Jens Acamo
LFS Development Officer