Launching Local Impact: Dave’s House Opens The Launchpad in Seminole County
Momentum is building—and so is our impact.
We are excited to share the next major milestone in the growth of Dave’s House: the opening of The Launchpad, our new office located inside The Neighborhood Co-Op in Sanford, Florida. At Dave’s House, our mission is to end homelessness for adults living with serious mental illness by providing permanent supportive housing paired with compassionate, community-based care. For more than 16 years, across four U.S. markets, we’ve helped individuals find stability, connection, and the opportunity to thrive. Now, as we expand our impact with our first multi-unit residential community in Sanford, we’re proud to introduce The Launchpad—our new office in Seminole County, and a powerful next step in bringing our mission to life closer to where it’s needed most. As a proud partner, Dave’s House is honored to be part of this dynamic environment where ideas take root, partnerships grow, and collective impact thrives.
Just two miles from the future site of our new community, the Launchpad is a mission-aligned home base designed to support real-time community engagement, care coordination, and collaborative planning. It’s a strategic move—and a deeply personal one—as we expand our footprint and deepen our relationships in Seminole County. The Launchpad is Dave’s House’s first physical office in Seminole County, housed within The Neighborhood Co-Op—an innovative shared space that brings together nonprofits, social enterprises, and community-focused businesses. It’s designed for organizations that want to work side by side, learn from one another, and grow together. For us, it’s a perfect fit. This space will serve as the foundation for:
Housing navigation and early-stage care coordination for adults with serious mental illness
Onsite collaboration with service providers and local partners
Community listening and trust-building as we prepare to welcome future residents to our multi-unit community
“At Dave’s House, we believe that meaningful, lasting change begins with being present. The Launchpad allows us to get to know the people, providers, and places that will shape our impact in Seminole County—well before a single resident moves in.” Ellen O’Connor, CEO- Dave’s House
Why Seminole County? Why Now?
The opportunity to expand into Seminole County came at a powerful intersection of mission, need, and legacy. When a 5-acre property in Sanford was generously donated to Dave’s House by Family of Friends—a residential assisted living facility that served adults with serious mental illness for over 35 years—we were presented with a unique chance to carry forward that spirit of care. The site, located just minutes from downtown Sanford, offered more than land; it offered history, heart, and a deep connection to the population we serve.
Building our first multi-unit residential community on this land allows us to honor that legacy while launching a bold new Dave’s House model. With 16 private duplex homes, a community center, and wraparound care services, this thoughtfully designed neighborhood will be a beacon of healing and hope. We're currently in capital campaign mode to raise $9 million to bring the project to life—with $1 million already secured through a federal loan grant and our development partners now in place. As we move into design and site preparation, we invite donors, partners, and supporters to schedule a Binocular Tour and see firsthand how a powerful legacy is becoming a future of stability, dignity, and community.
Rooted in Sanford’s Legacy
We’re especially excited to plant deeper roots in Sanford, a city with a rich and resilient history. From its walkable downtown to its strong community pride and growing network of civic leaders, Sanford is a place where progress and tradition meet. As we expand our mission into Seminole County, we look forward to meeting our new neighbors, listening to the community’s needs, and becoming part of Sanford’s ongoing story of connection, care, and transformation.
Growing with Purpose
The Launchpad is more than an office—it’s a symbol of our long-term commitment to Seminole County, and a key step in our broader growth strategy. As we build this new community, we’re not just creating homes—we’re creating solutions.
Solutions for independence.
Solutions for stability.
Solutions for connection.
Solutions for hope.
Once the Seminole County community is up and running, we plan to replicate this model in new markets—bringing the same life-changing outcomes to more individuals across Florida and beyond. The Launchpad represents that future—built right into the foundation of today’s work.