Auburn Rotary was pleased to welcome Colleen Carmichael, Executive Director of New Horizon Communities, who shared the inspiring work her organization is doing to provide safe, stable housing and supportive community for people experiencing homelessness.

New Horizon Communities operates permanent supportive tiny home villages in Olympia, Orting, and Shelton, serving residents across Thurston, Pierce, and Mason Counties. What began in Olympia as a response to homelessness has grown into a movement of tiny home communities. Today, the organization provides 95 tiny homes along with wraparound support such as one-on-one case management, on-site mental health therapy, transportation, peer mentorship, communal meals, chores, and social activities.

Their first community, Quixote Village in Olympia, opened in 2013 and houses 30 people. New Horizon Communities has also established two communities focused on homeless veterans: Orting Veterans Village, opened in 2021, housing 35 veterans, and Shelton Veterans Village, opened in 2023, housing 30 veterans.

Colleen’s presentation reminded Auburn Rotary that housing is more than shelter. It is dignity, safety, connection, and a foundation for rebuilding lives. Through tiny homes and supportive services, New Horizon Communities helps residents move toward stability and a stronger quality of life.

Learn More or Support the Work

Readers can learn more, volunteer, donate, or sponsor a tiny home through New Horizon Communities:

Website: www.nhcommunities.org
Email: info@nhcommunities.org
Phone: 253-327-0158
Donate online: Use the QR code below or visit their donation page.