Old National Bank Foundation 20 for 20 Grantee Profiles: Milwaukee’s Housing Resources, Inc., Helping Families Turn Homeownership into Reality
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 Housing Resources, Inc. in Milwaukee, Wis.
Housing Resources, Inc. (HRI) prepares people for successful homeownership and fosters financial empowerment through education, advocacy and supportive services. For more than three decades, the organization has helped thousands of individuals and families navigate the homebuying process, overcome financial barriers and build long-term housing stability.
All-encompassing housing assistance
Founded in 1991, HRI was established to provide specialized homebuyer education and counseling services to individuals and families throughout Southeastern Wisconsin. What began as a focused effort to help first-time homebuyers understand the path to homeownership has evolved into a comprehensive organization offering one-on-one housing counseling, financial education, credit improvement services, foreclosure prevention counseling, down payment assistance and post-purchase support. HRI serves both English- and Spanish-speaking clients across the region.
The organization's impact can be measured not only in homes purchased, but in lives changed. Through 2025, HRI had:
- Educated more than 32,000 homebuyers
- Provided one-on-one counseling to more than 10,000 individuals and families
- Assisted with more than 7,400 home purchases
- Generated more than $723 million in mortgage financing
- Helped more than 21,000 homeowners through counseling, education and foreclosure prevention services
“Homeownership remains one of the most effective ways families can build stability and create opportunities for future generations,” said Trena Bond, Executive Director of Housing Resources, Inc. “Our mission is to guide and support families throughout their homeownership journey, equipping them with the knowledge, financial tools, and confidence needed to achieve and sustain homeownership.”
Every homeowner a success story
One of HRI's greatest success stories is repeated hundreds of times every year. Many clients first come to the organization believing homeownership is beyond their reach. They may have steady employment but struggle with credit challenges, debt, limited savings or uncertainty about where to begin.
After completing HRI's homebuyer education program, clients work one-on-one with a HUD-certified housing counselor to develop a personalized plan. Together they improve credit, build savings, explore mortgage options and identify down payment assistance programs that can make homeownership possible.
“One of the most rewarding moments is seeing our ‘key holders’ smiling proudly with their keys in hand, knowing they’ve achieved their dream of homeownership,” Bond said. “In 2025 alone, 355 HRI clients achieved that milestone and became first-time homeowners. Behind every closing is a family that has gained not only a home, but increased stability, equity and the opportunity to build wealth for the next generation.”
Post-closing assistance
HRI's commitment to homeowners extends well beyond the closing table. The organization provides counseling and support that helps homeowners successfully maintain their investment, navigate financial challenges and preserve long-term housing stability. Through educational workshops, counseling services and community partnerships, HRI helps families build the knowledge and confidence needed to thrive as homeowners.
The partnership between the Old National Bank Foundation and Housing Resources, Inc. reflects a shared commitment to expanding access to affordable and sustainable homeownership. Through financial support, knowledgeable lending professionals, affordable mortgage products and down payment assistance resources, Old National helps create opportunities for families working to achieve homeownership.
“Old National Bank has been much more than a funder. It has been a valued partner in helping families achieve the dream of homeownership,” Bond said. “Their support allows us to provide education, counseling and financial coaching, while their lending expertise and down payment assistance resources help create a seamless pathway from preparation to home purchase. Together, we're helping families overcome barriers and access opportunities that can change the trajectory of their lives.”
Together, the Old National Bank Foundation and Housing Resources, Inc. are helping families build stronger financial futures through homeownership. By providing education, counseling and access to affordable financing, the partnership continues to strengthen neighborhoods and create opportunities that benefit generations to come.
“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 Housing Resources, Inc., visit Housing Resources Inc..
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.
