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      For Your Life Rick Vach July 17, 2026

      Old National Bank Foundation 20 for 20 Grantee Profiles: Lacasa -- Housing, Education, and Community Revitalization

      As part of its 20th anniversary celebration, and two decades of helping build stronger, more vibrant and prosperous communities, the Old National Bank Foundation in 2026 is donating a total of $20,000 to 20 nonprofit organizations throughout its nine-state footprint, including Lacasa of Elkhart, Ind.

      Lacasa’s holistic approach to financial empowerment has made it a valued partner of the Old National Bank Foundation. By combining financial coaching, homebuyer education, housing counseling, and savings programs, the organization helps families build stability and move toward long-term goals, especially homeownership.

      “Lacasa was founded in 1970 to address the growing need for safe, affordable housing in Elkhart County,” said Lacasa’s Ashley Bowen, VP Financial Empowerment and HUD Certified Housing Counselor. “We recognized that housing is only one piece of the puzzle. Families also need the financial knowledge, resources, and support to remain stable and reach their long-term goals. Today, our work brings together affordable housing, financial empowerment, and community engagement to help individuals and families build stronger futures.”

      Helping first-time homebuyers

      Last year alone, Lacasa provided financial education to 531 individuals and helped approximately 30 people or families achieve major financial milestones such as purchasing a home or a vehicle.

      One example is Lindsey, who worked with Lacasa to save toward the goal of homeownership for herself, and building generational wealth for her two young sons. Lindsey eventually purchased a newly-built home with financing assistance from Old National Bank, which qualified her for a $20,000 homeownership assistance grant, part of more than $40,000 total she received in assistance.

      “Today, Lindsey and her sons have a place to call home, but what stands out most is the journey that got them there,” Bowen said. “Lindsey's determination, paired with guidance from Lacasa and the support of partners like the Old National Bank Foundation, helped turn a long-term goal into reality. It's a great example of how financial education, trusted lending, and strong community partnerships can open the door to lasting homeownership.”

      Building trust-based partnerships

      Lacasa’s work recognizes that financial confidence is built over time through knowledge, support, and access.

      “Our partnership with the Old National Bank Foundation is meaningful because it reflects a trust-based approach to community investment,” Bowen said. “The Old National Bank Foundation helped make it possible for us to expand financial education and coaching while remaining focused on the people and families we serve. What stands out most is that their commitment goes beyond grant funding. We've consistently seen Old National employees go the extra mile for our mutual clients, taking the time to connect people with fair lending opportunities, banking services, and programs that can make homeownership more attainable. They're a trusted presence in our community, and we value having a partner who shares our commitment to helping people build financial stability and achieve their goals.”

      Together, these partnerships through the Old National Bank Foundation help families find their way off the ever-increasing rental merry-go-round and into the stability and financial security of homeownership.

      “Our ‘20 for 20’ campaign recognizes 20 organizations that have helped strengthen communities and expand opportunity through their partnership with the Old National Bank Foundation,” said Old National Bank Foundation President Joe Kiser. “Their leadership, innovation, and commitment to serving others reflect the very best of what can happen when communities come together around a shared purpose. As we celebrate the Foundation’s 20th anniversary, these organizations represent the many communities, causes, and partnerships that have shaped the Foundation’s work over the past two decades.”

      To learn more about Lacasa, click here.

      To learn more about Old National’s special assistance homeownership programs, click here.

      Each year, the Old National Bank Foundation endeavors to fund as many initiatives that meet our funding priorities as possible across our footprint. For more information on grants or the Old National Bank Foundation click here.

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