Strong Foundations

Santa Barbara’s Turner Foundation, which since its founding 65 years ago has provided 3.3 million nights of accommodation for low-income individuals and families, has opened its latest outpost, Dunamis House – Greek for strength – at De La Guerra Street and Marilla Avenue.

It’s the fifth property the organization has purchased with the first in 2005, a 70-unit housing complex formerly called Casa Perdido, and in 2014 a 45-unit complex, The Lighthouse, as well as The Mission House and Thrive House.

Dunamis is owned by Bowen Lee and Dan Girdler of the 20-20 Real Estate Group and is currently being leased with a view to purchase for $1,650,000 in due course, under the foundation’s “Hopeful Housing” initiative.

“Case management is onsite,” says Abby Lindros, youth program coordinator. “So we’ll be doing goal oriented and strength-based management, supporting residents in their goals like education and career building, and eventually we’ll get them independent housing with a housing navigator who will support them in building connections in the community.”

Among those turning out for the opening barbecue bash were foundation president Dean Wilson, Das Williams, John Daly, Jackie Carrera, Oscar Gutierrez, and Drew Wakefield.