When Art House Pasadena Executive Director Korey Wyatt approached Jericho Road Pasadena to connect him with a volunteer marketing expert, he already knew what to expect. Seven years ago, Korey had asked JRP for a volunteer web designer. The pairing was so successful that Korey had hired the designer at the end of the project; he’s still working with the organization.
That’s why he was impressed but not surprised when JRP found Larry Kaplan, the ideal volunteer to help him shape a clear, compelling grant-seeking narrative. Larry’s consulting firm specializes in seeking, strategizing and writing grants as well as shaping fundraising strategies. He also shares his in-depth expertise on marketing communications, strategic planning, board development, public policy analysis and advocacy for community-based social justice nonprofits.
Opened in 2017, Art House is a Recovery Bridge Housing program operated by The LCADA Way, a private, non-profit organization dedicated to transforming lives and communities impacted by alcohol and substance abuse and behavioral health issues. Situated on a large private lot in northwest Pasadena near public transportation, health services and green park space, the 16-bed home provides a safe interim living environment for homeless people who are in outpatient or intensive outpatient (IOP) treatment. Its services are free.
Guests are welcome to stay for 90 days a year with a possible extension of up to 90 more days. Residents get help in navigating the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority’s Coordinated Entry System (CES) to secure permanent housing before they leave.
Art House programs are designed to encourage creative self-expression. Members of the decades-old Pasadena Society of Artists guide guests and community partners in exploring their creative gifts, breathing new life into both the Northwest Pasadena arts scene and local recovery communities. Another partner, the 12-Step Institute, located on the grounds of AHP, is currently collaborating with the organization on a volunteer training program for the pioneering gay Alcoholics Anonymous program Alcoholics Together (AT).
Larry found Korey very accessible and responsive to work with. “As we reviewed his situation, I felt we needed to sharpen our focus on approaching grant funders, not only donors.”
Korey found the experience rewarding. “We had to develop a focused marketing narrative that more clearly communicate the work we’re doing now,” he says. “Larry had the insight and in-depth experience to guide us in doing that.”
Thanks to volunteer Linda Taubenreuther for writing JRP social media posts!