Wallick Awarded 9% LIHTC for Wade Park Station in Cleveland

Wallick was awarded $999,960 in 9% Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) and a $1.75 million Housing Development Loan (HDL) reservation from the Ohio Housing Finance Agency to support the development of Wade Park Station!

About the Community

Wade Park Station is a new senior housing development located on Wade Park Avenue in Cleveland, OH.

This 40-unit community will include 30 one-bedroom and 10 two-bedroom apartments and is designed to offer high-quality, affordable housing for seniors.

Each apartment will feature a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and garbage disposal, an in-unit washer and dryer, spacious closets and ample storage.

Site amenities will include a community room with seating, an exercise room, an outdoor patio and supportive service coordination to promote well-being, health and independence for residents.

Competitive Selection

Wade Park Station was selected through a highly competitive funding process amid a strong need for senior housing in Ohio:

  • One of just seven projects awarded through the New Affordability Senior Funding Pool, which received 16 applications.
  • One of 23 9% LIHTC awards out of 60 statewide applications.

We congratulate our Ohio Development Team, including Jimmy McCune, Matt Dennis and Graham Weidenhamer, on their incredible work on this project!

See the elevation below for a preview of the community.

Wallick Welcomes Dr. Abraham Mathew, Senior Vice President of Senior Living Operations

New Albany, OH – Wallick is excited to welcome Dr. Abraham Mathew as the Senior Vice President of Senior Living Operations, after joining the team as Interim Senior Vice President in April.

As Senior Vice President of Senior Living Operations, Abraham will lead the strategic and operational direction of Wallick’s Senior Living division to elevate resident care, drive growth, promote operational excellence and build a high-performing, mission-aligned team across communities.

Abraham brings with him more than two decades of experience in healthcare management, including executive leadership roles across senior living communities and CCRCs. Most recently, he served as Regional Vice President of Operations for Lifespace Communities, overseeing multiple communities across Texas. Prior to that, he served as a Licensed Health Care Administrator, Executive Director, Senior Executive Director, and Director of Operations, leading high-performing teams and delivering operational excellence across the continuum of care.

Abraham began his career as a direct caregiver and social worker, and quickly advanced due to his passion for learning and leadership. He became a Licensed Health Care Administrator in 2010 and has led diverse teams across skilled nursing, assisted living, Memory Care and independent living settings.

He holds a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) with a specialization in Healthcare Management and Leadership from California Intercontinental University. In addition, he holds an MSW, MBA and a Master’s and Bachelor’s in English Literature. Abraham is licensed as a Nursing Facility Administrator in both Texas and Illinois.

In 2018, he was appointed by Governor Greg Abbott to the Texas Nursing Facility Administrators Advisory Committee (NFAAC), where he currently serves as Co-Chair, following his term as Chair through 2024.

Abraham’s leadership is deeply guided by the principles of servant leadership, transparency, accountability, and collaboration. He believes in empowering teams, fostering a culture of trust, and leading with a purpose rooted in values.

Outside of work, Abraham is actively involved in church and community life, enjoys mentoring and plays in local soccer leagues.

In his words, “I am most looking forward to serving at Wallick Communities where values are more than words—they are lived out daily. It is an honor to be part of a mission-driven organization with such a rich legacy and a bold vision for the future.”

Wallick (wallick.com) serves the affordable housing, workforce housing and senior living markets and operates with more than 1,100 associates across five business divisions: Development, Construction, Asset Management, Affordable Housing Operations, and Senior Living Operations. For 59 years, the business has adhered to its founder Jack Wallick’s ideals of integrity and consistent quality. Led by CEO Amy Albery and guided by its Board of Directors, Wallick is an employee-owned company.

 

Wallick at Ohio Housing Council’s Spring Symposium

Two weeks ago, Mike Ekis, Wallick’s Senior Vice President of Construction, joined industry experts at the Ohio Housing Council’s Spring Symposium for a panel discussion on navigating construction challenges in housing.

The event, held at the Ohio Statehouse, brought together leaders from across the state to address a wide range of housing-related topics. Much of the discussion centered on state and federal legislation that affects Wallick’s core business, while also exploring opportunities to influence policy decisions currently under consideration.

  • Emily Cadik, CEO of the Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition, opened the event with an update on federal advocacy efforts for the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act (AHCIA), which was reintroduced with 119 cosponsors.
  • Bill Beagle, recently appointed Executive Director of the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA), participated in the day’s sessions, shared remarks and contributed to ongoing conversations.
  • Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel delivered the keynote, providing insights into his journey from education and athletics to public service, and emphasizing the state administration’s continued commitment to affordable housing.

Mike’s panel, “Breaking Barriers: Navigating Design and Construction Challenges in Housing,” explored challenges within the construction industry, with a specific focus on affordable housing. Topics included energy and building code changes, the effects of tariffs and inflation, labor shortages and financial challenges of development.

During the discussion, Mike highlighted the importance of Wallick’s longstanding partnership with OHFA and proposed a review of project financial caps to benefit builders across the industry. The panel was informative, well-received, and helped improve understanding for those less familiar with the construction side of affordable housing.

Overall, the OHC summit created space for meaningful dialogue with the key industry leaders and stakeholders essential to Wallick’s continued success.

Special thanks to Mike for representing Wallick and to the Ohio Housing Council for hosting an impactful event that helps move the conversation (and the work) forward.

Organizational Update – Expanding Leadership to Strengthen Alignment and Strategy

We’re pleased to share an update  to our organizational structure that reflects Wallick’s ongoing growth and our commitment to strengthening collaboration across key business functions.

Effective this week, Information Technology (IT) will now fall under the leadership of Dr. Bryan Lenzo, who currently leads Human Resources, Business Intelligence, and the Project Management Office. With this expanded scope, Bryan’s title will change to Senior Vice President, Organizational Effectiveness and Technology.

This realignment brings together people, systems, data and execution under one leadership structure. It’s designed to enhance coordination, accelerate progress on strategic initiatives and support the continued evolution of our organization.

Since joining Wallick in 2020, Bryan has been instrumental in advancing a data-driven mindset and reinforcing people-first culture. His leadership has helped shape several core functions that support our workforce and operations, and his ability to cultivate high-performing, talented teams has positioned Wallick to grow with both intention and impact.

We also thank Sarah Malone, Chief Financial Officer, for her leadership of the IT Team up to this point. Her guidance and support have helped set a strong foundation as the team continues forward under Bryan’s leadership.

Pictured: Dr. Bryan Lenzo, SVP of Organizational Effectiveness & Technology

“I’m excited to work closely with the IT Team and build on the great momentum already underway,” Bryan says. “I look forward to what we can accomplish together.”

Please join us in congratulating Bryan on this expanded role and in supporting the work ahead as these teams collaborate even more closely to move Wallick forward.

Breathwork, CrossFit keep Wallick CEO Amy Albery grounded

Wallick Welcomes Mike Dodge as Senior Vice President of Asset Management

New Albany, OH – Wallick is pleased to welcome Mike Dodge as the Senior Vice President of Asset Management.

As Senior Vice President of Asset Management, Mike will focus on proactively managing property performance and seeking creative solutions to achieve the best outcomes
for Wallick’s owners, partners and residents.

He is excited to join a mission-driven organization with decades of success in affordable housing and senior
living, guided by the core values of care, character and collaboration.

With over 24 years of experience in real estate finance and development, Mike most recently served as Vice President of Finance & Development for Continental Real Estate Companies. In this role, he managed the capital needs, including debt and equity, for existing and future developments in various property types, including office, retail, multifamily and senior housing.

Mike’s approach to leadership is rooted in teamwork and collaboration, with an emphasis on servant leadership. He values the significance of recognizing achievements and celebrating partners who drive extraordinary results.

A central Ohio native, Mike is deeply involved in his local community and has previously served as President and Board Chair of the Upper Arlington Civic Association and President of the Upper Arlington Lacrosse Association. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance – Real Estate from The Kelley School of Business at Indiana University.

“We are excited to welcome Mike Dodge as our new Senior Vice President of Asset Management. With a strong background in real estate finance and development, Mike brings a wealth of expertise in senior living, investor relations and asset management strategy. His leadership and financial acumen will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen and grow our portfolio,” says Amy Albery, Chief Executive Officer.

Wallick (wallick.com) serves the affordable housing, workforce housing and senior living markets and operates with more than 1,100 associates across five business divisions: Development, Construction, Asset Management, Affordable Housing Operations, and Senior Living Operations. For 59 years, the business has adhered to its founder Jack Wallick’s ideals of integrity and consistent quality. Led by CEO Amy Albery and guided by its Board of Directors, Wallick is an employee-owned company.

Wallick Receives $5.8 Million TMUD Tax Credit Award for Affordable Assisted Living Development

Wallick received $5.8 million in Transformational Mixed-Use Development (TMUD) tax credits as part of Phase II of its Central Park development in Heath, OH. These credits were awarded to support the construction of Wallick’s Affordable Assisted Living community within the project and will play a vital role in the community’s financial viability, helping to address the growing need for affordable senior care in Central Ohio.

Meeting a Critical Need with Affordable Assisted Living

Affordable Assisted Living is a new development focus for Wallick, and this incoming project in Heath is among our first in the category.

Designed to serve seniors who cannot typically afford market-rate assisted living, this income-based approach to senior living provides older adults on Medicaid the opportunity to enjoy their golden years in a supportive community.

Bringing even more value to this development, the Affordable Assisted Living community will be part of a new Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) program that combines the 4% tax credit with Ohio Medicaid Waiver reimbursements. This program allows qualifying residents to use Medicaid toward their care, making longer stays at a fixed affordable rate possible while ensuring the community’s financial sustainability.

Pictured: Affordable Assisted Living community rendering

Central Park & Wallick’s Role

Phase I of Central Park, awarded $4.1 million in TMUD credits last year, is set to transform 48 acres near Heath’s Indian Mound Mall into a vibrant mixed-use community. In this space, Wallick is developing 424 units of Workforce Housing, serving those who make 75-100% of the area median income. Phase I is expected to close in Q1 2025 and break ground soon after (read more here).

Phase II will further elevate the project through Wallick’s creation of an Affordable Assisted Living community, contributing to Central Park’s broader vision as a pedestrian-focused hub that combines multiple housing types and amenities.

Through innovative housing solutions like Affordable Assisted Living and Workforce Housing, Wallick remains committed to meeting a genuine need and Opening Doors to Homes, Opportunities and Hope for residents in Central Ohio and beyond.

Site Plan of Central Park Phase II (see #25 for the AAL community location)

Tammana Bharakhda Promoted to Senior Vice President of Marketing & Branding

New Albany, OH – Wallick is pleased to announce the promotion of Tammana Bharakhda to Senior Vice President of Marketing & Branding.

Tam is a seasoned marketing and branding executive with a proven track record in building and strengthening brands across business and consumer sectors.

In her new role, she will oversee a team dedicated to developing and executing comprehensive strategic marketing, branding and communication strategies across multiple business divisions.

Since joining Wallick in 2020, Tam has established herself as a skilled communicator and collaborative leader, fostering a culture of innovation and accountability within her team.

Tam’s expertise is backed by leadership roles at large corporations like Bread Financial and Nationwide, where she honed her skills in both business and consumer markets.

Most recently, Tam worked at Boston Consulting Group, where she played a key role leading the North America Marketing team. There, she was instrumental in developing the global management consultant’s annual marketing plan and strategy, underscoring her strong leadership abilities and capacity to inspire high-performing teams. Her global experience highlights her capabilities in managing complex projects and delivering business results that align with organizational goals. Tam’s career reflects her commitment to excellence and her ability to adapt to varying market demands.

Tam was born and raised in London, the U.K., and graduated from the University of Greenwich in London with a bachelor’s degree in marketing communications and French.

As Senior Vice President of Marketing & Branding, Tam looks forward to ensuring that Wallick remains a priority for both current and prospective B2C and B2B audiences to foster business growth.

“I’m thrilled to have Tam’s strategic and innovative thinking on our Senior Leadership Team.  Her proven experience and results-driven collaboration will help fuel Wallick’s success now and into the future,” says Amy Albery, Wallick’s Chief Executive Officer.

Wallick (wallick.com) serves the affordable housing, workforce housing and senior living markets and operates with more than 1,100 associates across five business divisions: Development, Construction, Asset Management, Affordable Housing Operations, and Senior Living Operations. For 59 years, the business has adhered to its founder Jack Wallick’s ideals of integrity and consistent quality. Led by CEO Amy Albery and guided by its Board of Directors, Wallick is an employee-owned company.

Wallick Secures OLIHTC Resources for Harding Heights Apartments in Marion, OH

Wallick is excited to announce that we have secured Ohio Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (OLIHTC) resources for Harding Heights Apartments. This proposed new construction project is designed to provide high-quality, safe housing for seniors in Marion, OH, and was one of only 15 projects (out of 36 applications received by OHFA) invited to submit a final application to the Ohio Housing Finance Agency’s Ohio LIHTC Program.

Harding Heights will feature 50 total units, including 25 one-bedroom and 25 two-bedroom units. The development will offer competitive unit sizes and amenities, including fully equipped kitchens with dishwashers, garbage disposals, and microwaves, spacious closets, and carpeted bedrooms. Community amenities will consist of tenant storage spaces, a laundry room, living/sitting areas, a large community room with seating, a television, and kitchenette, and a computer room.

Pictured: Visual Rendering of Harding Heights Apartments

Harding Heights is one of many projects Wallick’s Development team secured award allocations for in 2024, bringing the year’s total to nine, including:

  • Harvey Square
  • Central Park
  • Stow Kent Gardens
  • Hoke Street
  • The Ashford of Berkshire
  • Zachary Point
  • Abbott Crossing
  • Walnut Ridge
  • Harding Heights

As we kick off the New Year and celebrate these achievements, we look forward to advancing Harding Heights and opening doors to homes, opportunities and hope for seniors in the Marion County region.

Jonathan Stonebraker Named 2025 President of MAHMA

Congratulations to Jonathan Stonebraker, Wallick’s Regional Vice President of Affordable Housing Operations, on being named the 2025 President of the Midwest Affordable Housing Management Association (MAHMA).

As President, Jonathan will foster collaboration with MAHMA’s executive director to advance and grow the organization and guarantee value to its membership.

Wallick has a longstanding relationship with MAHMA, one of seventeen regional organizations under the national umbrella of the National Affordable Housing Management Association (NAHMA). Beyond MAHMA and NAHMA, Wallick has also been involved with other key organizations like the Ohio Housing Council (OHC) and the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM) for many years. These strategic partnerships offer informational and educational resources, networking opportunities, and a voice with policymakers and regulators.

Jonathan has served in various capacities within MAHMA over the past six years – first as a Conferee, then as a Board Member, Committee Chair (Governmental Affairs), Vice President, and now, President.

His goals for his term as President are as follows:

  • Spur enthusiasm and involvement from current membership.

  • Grow core (property management companies) and affiliate membership.

  • Deliver a meaningful 2025 MAHMA Conference experience for members.

  • Evaluate the organization’s educational programs and source strategic partnerships with affiliates.

We are proud of Jonathan’s meaningful contributions to the affordable housing industry and commend his leadership in this important role with MAHMA!

Wallick Awarded Funds for Senior New Construction & Acquisition-Rehabilitation Projects in Ohio & Indiana

In late November, Wallick received two separate awards to fund The Landings at Delta Crossing, a new construction project in Maumee, OH, and Walnut Ridge Apartments, an acquisition-rehabilitation project in Indianapolis, IN. Both communities will serve seniors (55+).

The Landings at Delta Crossing – Maumee, OH

The Landings at Delta Crossing was awarded a highly competitive $1.5 million Affordable Housing Program (AHP) grant award from the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) of Cincinnati. Wallick received this grant alongside our project partner, Resident Resources Network, Inc., through Huntington National Bank, a Member Bank of the FHLB of Cincinnati. This is in addition to the 9% low-income housing tax credit (LIHTC) award the project previously received from the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA). RDL Architects will serve as the project’s architect.

This 60-unit new construction project will include:

  • 40 one-bedroom units
  • 20 two-bedroom units

Each unit will feature fully equipped kitchens with dishwashers, garbage disposals, and microwaves, as well as spacious closets and carpeted bedrooms.

Key amenities include resident storage spaces, multiple laundry rooms, living and sitting areas, a large community room with seating, a television, and a kitchenette, a computer room, and a fully equipped exercise/wellness room.

The community will also offer ongoing resident services coordination.

Pictured: Elevations of The Landings at Delta Crossing

Development Leads:

  • Jimmy McCune, Vice President
  • Matt Dennis, Development Associate

Walnut Ridge Apartments – Indianapolis, IN

Walnut Ridge Apartments was awarded $1,300,000 in highly competitive 9% low-income housing tax credits (LIHTC) and $500,000 in soft funding from the Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA).

This 78-unit acquisition-rehabilitation project includes:

  • Eight studio units
  • Six one-bedroom units
  • 64 two-bedroom units

Key amenities include an enclosed courtyard with a glass greenhouse, a dog park, a picnic/grill area, a community room, a fitness center, a computer room and high-speed Wi-Fi in common areas and units.

Pictured: Walnut Ridge Apartments, 3347 N Emerson Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46218

Development Leads:

  • Sara Ford, Vice President
  • Brandon Barcena, Development Manager
  • Brennon Davis, Development Manager

We’re grateful for the community support and partnerships that made these projects possible, along with the incredible efforts of our team.

Wallick to Serve as Property Manager for Dayton Children’s Hospital’s Kinship Care Family Housing Program

On December 5, Wallick attended the groundbreaking event for Dayton Children’s Hospital’s new Kinship Care Family Housing program.

Pictured: Deborah Feldman, President and CEO of Dayton Children’s Hospital

Wallick will serve as the property manager for the community. Dayton Children’s Hospital is the owner and co-developer, alongside The Model Group, which is also the project’s general contractor. ATA Beilharz Architects is the architect.

What is Kinship Housing?

Dayton Children’s Hospital’s kinship housing project focuses on providing a pathway to health for children raised by kinship caregivers—relatives or close family friends who step in to provide care when parents cannot.

According to Dayton Children’s Hospital, 80% of a child’s health is determined by where they live, learn and play.

Many kinship caregivers face challenges, such as living in insufficient housing or age-restricted communities (like retirement homes), as well as financial and health constraints that make it difficult to provide safe, comfortable homes for the children in their care.

Kinship housing is a solution that allows caregivers to raise their families in an ideal environment where they can thrive.

About the Community

Pictured: Jeffrey Mims, Mayor of Dayton

The $13 million Kinship Care Family Housing program is located in the Greater Old North Dayton neighborhood, near parks, schools and other local amenities. It consists of 26 ADA-accessible 3-bedroom units in a duplex style. Key features include an on-site community room, front porches and ample outdoor space.

We look forward to welcoming residents to their new homes and thank Dayton Children’s Hospital and all those involved for launching this much-needed program for kinship caregivers and their families.

Pictured below: Renderings of the Dayton Children’s Hospital Kinship project.

 

 

The Ashford at Sturbridge Senior Living Resident Celebrates 105th Birthday

On Monday, Wallick Senior Living’s The Ashford at Sturbridge celebrated resident Evelyn Monahan’s milestone 105th birthday.

Pictured: Hilliard City Council President Tina Cottone Delivers a Special Proclamation to Evelyn Monahan

Hilliard City Council President Tina Cottone visited to present a proclamation honoring Evelyn’s remarkable longevity and “her lifelong commitment to family, friends and the community.” The Hilliard Area Chamber of Commerce and Evelyn’s favorite entertainer, John Bare, also joined in the festivities, alongside her loved ones and fellow residents.

View a highlight video of Evelyn’s celebration from the City of Hilliard here:

About Evelyn

Evelyn has been a cherished member of The Ashford since 2019. Her incredible life story spans more than a century.

Pictured: Senior Living Advisor Christy Perry and Evelyn Monahan

Born on December 1, 1919, in Byesville, OH, she moved to Columbus following her mother’s passing when she was just eight. She later met “her Frank,” a Navy serviceman, who she married in 1939.

Shortly after their marriage, Frank was deployed to Pearl City, Hawaii and Evelyn survived the Pearl Harbor attacks (while eight months pregnant with their first child) and subsequent blackouts in Honolulu.

She remembers a neighbor staying with her while Frank was called to fight. They went through the blackouts together and remember seeing bullets from planes fly past them and land in their neighbor’s house in a chest of drawers while on the way to church one day.

After the war, Evelyn and Frank returned to Ohio and raised three children together.

Evelyn is proudly German and Welsh. Today, she remains fascinated by the developments in electricity and technology through the decades.

The secret to life, according to Evelyn, is to get artificial valves and accept life as it is.

“God gave you this life to live. Even though there are bumps along the road, this too shall pass.”

Happy birthday, Evelyn!

Wallick Receives Letter from Governor Roy Cooper Following Oak View Grand Opening

Wallick was honored to receive a congratulatory letter from Governor Roy Cooper following the Grand Opening of Oak View, our first affordable housing community in Siler City, North Carolina.

In his letter, Governor Cooper expressed gratitude for the efforts behind this beautiful development and emphasized the importance of addressing affordable housing in the rapidly growing state of North Carolina.

This recognition is a testament to our Development Team’s outstanding work and the power of incredible community partnerships.

Pictured with the letter (left to right): Amy Albery, CEO; Jake Gill and Brandon Barcena, Development Managers; and Alexis Dunfee, SVP of Development.

We thank Governor Cooper for his shared commitment to addressing North Carolina’s housing needs.

Wallick Celebrates Grand Opening of Oak View, First Project in North Carolina

On Tuesday, October 29, Wallick celebrated the Grand Opening of Oak View, our first project in North Carolina.

As the developer and owner of this new $14 million community, we’re thrilled to contribute to new beginnings and much-needed affordable housing in Siler City and the Triangle area, in collaboration with Partnership Property Management, who serves as the community’s manager.

Pictured: Henry Johnson, Oak View resident, holds ceremonial ribbon cutting scissors alongside Wallick and partners

Amy Albery, CEO, and Jake Gill, Development Manager, shared remarks alongside notable guests, partners, and passionate advocates for affordable housing, including:

  • Mike Fenley, Field Representative for U.S. Senator Thom Tillis
  • Camden Mills, Field Director for Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09)
  • Divine Earth-Dowd, Legislative Assistant for Office of State Senator Natalie Murdock
  • Hon. Robert Reives, State Representative
  • Hon. Mike Dasher, Chair of Chatham County’s Board of Commissioners
  • Hon. Donald Matthews, Mayor of Siler City
  • Marc Isaacson, Board Member of the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency
  • Stephanie Watkins-Cruz, Director of Housing Policy at the North Carolina Housing Coalition

We also heard a powerful story from Oak View resident Henry Johnson about how the community has transformed his life, allowing him to live in Siler City near his family in his first home.

Thank you to our project partners for their vital support, including: Chatham County, the Town of Siler City, NCHFA, CAHEC, RiverHills Bank, Mc2 Engineering, Southern Energy Management, and TightLines Designs, Inc.

About Oak View: Oak View features 72 rental homes in three walk-up buildings, offering 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartments. Residents enjoy amenities like a playground, community center, and ample green space.

For more details about Oak View, click here.

Event photography by Holly Hennessee.

Mike Ekis Promoted to Senior Vice President of Construction

New Albany, OH – Wallick is pleased to announce the promotion of Mike Ekis to Senior Vice President of Construction, effective October 1, 2024.

Mike brings over 20 years of broad experience constructing single-family homes, multi-family communities, and senior housing in Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Kentucky, New York, North Carolina, and Louisiana. He has successfully delivered dozens of projects and thousands of homes over the course of his career, many of which have qualified for sustainable programs, such as Energy Star, Green Communities, and LEED.

As the Senior Vice President of Construction, Mike will oversee all aspects of Wallick’s construction program, including plan development, budgeting, and project safety. He is also responsible for ensuring the overall production, quality, and profitability of each development.

Since joining Wallick in 2020 as Vice President of Construction, Mike has been instrumental in streamlining processes that have significantly improved the Construction department’s efficiency and productivity. His contributions have been vital to internal growth on the Construction team, which has doubled in size over the past four years and advanced on an increasingly complex portfolio of projects.

Before Wallick, Mike spent 12 years with The NRP Group, where he began as an assistant superintendent, gaining firsthand appreciation for the challenges of onsite construction and developing a passion for building homes that meet greater community needs. He also served in leadership roles at Cedarwood Development, creating communities for the senior housing industry. A graduate of Youngstown State University, he holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering.

In his new leadership role, Mike looks forward to collaborating with Wallick’s Development Team to expand the company’s footprint across new regions and product types, while prioritizing our commitment to the residents we serve and “staying true to our roots.”

As a people leader, Mike is devoted to fostering camaraderie, mentoring new members of the team, and upholding Wallick’s core values—Care, Character, and Collaboration—integrating them into every project the team undertakes.

Wallick (wallick.com) serves the affordable housing, workforce housing and senior living markets and operates with more than 1,100 associates across five business divisions: Development, Construction, Asset Management, Affordable Housing Operations, and Senior Living Operations. For over 58 years, the business has adhered to its founder Jack Wallick’s ideals of integrity and consistent quality. Led by CEO Amy Albery and guided by its Board of Directors, Wallick is an employee-owned company.

North Carolina town primed for economic boom puts focus on affordable housing

Wallick Resident Success: Jaci’s Story

Below is a personal reflection written by Jaci, a resident of Wallick’s Fair Park community in Sardinia, OH.

Pictured: Jaci and her children.

Jaci’s inspiring story is one of perseverance, made possible with the support of the Jack Wallick Memorial Scholarship.

This program has awarded Wallick residents up to $2,500 per school year for up to four years ($10,000 total) since 1998.

Later this month, Jaci will leave Fair Park as a new homeowner and soon-to-be college graduate set to begin her dream career in Cincinnati.

We are thrilled for Jaci and celebrate her incredible achievements!

Here’s her story, told in her own words:

Jaci’s Story

“When I applied for an apartment with Wallick back in November of 2021 I was at what I thought was one of the lowest points of my life. I was a single mom of a beautiful 5-year-old daughter and pregnant with my son. I was working part-time and attempting to attend nursing school full-time. Even with the help of my amazing parents, I was wondering how I would pay for everything and support two children on my own while trying to better our lives.

From the moment I met Shana, I felt hopeful and tried to be as positive about my situation as possible. With my son due in less than two months I moved everything into the apartment with the help of some family and on our first night there I held my daughter as she slept and cried for hours, thinking I was a failure for being in this situation and having to have so much assistance from my parents, living in an income-based apartment, and struggling to make ends meet. Despite being down, I was thankful to have my own place to raise my children and keep a roof over their heads, no matter the situation.

However, it was still a struggle to remain positive. After getting my first bill for nursing school, I was taken aback and once again, I was worried and wondering where to turn to financially make my goals attainable. I knew becoming a nurse was a lifelong dream of mine and this was a goal I was absolutely determined to meet. I was discouraged yet again and two days later came home to a paper on my door explaining scholarship opportunities that were available to Wallick residents. It almost felt like fate, so I immediately started searching and applying for every scholarship on the list and any other ones I could find at that moment.

After a couple of weeks, I found out that I was approved for several scholarships that I had applied for. This helped me stay in a positive state as I could now afford my nursing education. This gave me so much motivation to continue and truly helped turn a new leaf in remaining optimistic and taking on any challenge that came my way.

Anytime I needed assistance, Shana and the Wallick community were there to help immediately. I went from what felt like the worst point of my life to now being less than three months away from graduating nursing school.

I’m still a single mom to two beautiful children, I’m still working, and I’m still relying on my family to help immensely, but I made it. I set goals and pushed until they were achieved. I took an unfortunate situation and was able to turn my life into something my family and I can be proud of.

I’m so thankful for the support I have received from my family and this community. Without them, I’d still be at square one unsure of how to move forward.

I am proof that you can go from income-based housing, receiving help with your rent and electricity, and utilizing government assistance to buying your first home and receiving multiple degrees to obtain your dream job.

The help I received while being a member of the Wallick community is something that I will forever be grateful for.”

A special thanks to Shana Cowdrey, Community Manager, and Tammy Chapin, Regional Manager, for their dedication and genuine care in supporting Jaci.

We are proud to cheer Jaci on as she embarks on this exciting new life chapter for herself and her family!

CFO Sarah Malone Honored in Columbus Business First’s C-Suite Awards

On September 19, Wallick Communities CFO Sarah Malone was named an honoree in Columbus Business First’s 2024 C-Suite Awards. These awards acknowledge the most admired leaders and top executives in Central Ohio.

Recognized in the “CFO or equivalent” category, Sarah received a C-Suite Award in celebration of her transformational and innovative leadership, which includes increasing cross-departmental collaboration, integrating a deeper understanding of financial strategy into the organizational structure, and spearheading Wallick’s transition into an employee-owned company.

We congratulate Sarah on this well-deserved honor.

Read more about Sarah here.

Wallick Breaks Ground on Corners Crossing

On Friday, July 19, Wallick hosted the groundbreaking of Corners Crossing, a new $45 million Workforce Housing apartment community in Traverse City, Michigan.

Wallick is the co-owner, co-developer, general contractor and property manager of Corners Crossing, and local nonprofit Homestretch Nonprofit Housing Corporation is the project co-owner and co-developer.

Pictured: Amy Albery, CEO, shares remarks

Wallick’s CEO, Amy Albery, kicked off the afternoon celebration with remarks, followed by several notable guests, including:

Kelly Lively, Northern Michigan Regional Director, Office of U.S. Senator Gary C. Peters

Hon. Betsy Coffia, State Representative, (District 103)

Jonathan Stimson, Executive Director, Homestretch Nonprofit Housing Corporation

Brian Jones, Managing Director, Greystone

Nick Florian, Northern Michigan Market President, Huntington National Bank

Alexis Dunfee, SVP of Development, Wallick

Corners Crossing was made possible thanks to the vital community partnerships that propelled its development forward.

  • The design team includes RDL Architects and Crain Engineering.
  • Project partners include Grand Traverse County, the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), Blair Township, S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Huntington National Bank, Greystone and Sherman Capital Partners and SGL Acquisitions.

Pictured: Wallick, Homestretch and partners break ground on Corners Crossing

Workforce Housing addresses the needs of middle-income families by offering high-quality housing with market-rate amenities at a more affordable price. In Traverse City, rising housing costs and high rents are significant barriers to retaining local talent.

Corners Crossing, Wallick’s first Workforce Housing community, aims to provide safe, stable housing that is affordable for middle-income residents in Traverse City.

The community will feature 192 one-, two-, and three-bedroom units serving families earning 80-120% AMI. There will be eight three-story walk-up buildings consisting of 24 apartments. Amenities include a fitness center, office and computer center, and dog park and playground.

Apartment homes will include:

  • Energy Star-rated appliances
  • A patio or balcony
  • Luxury vinyl flooring

For Traverse City, Corners Crossing represents the power of community collaboration and a commitment to affordability, ensuring that those who work in the community – including nurses, firefighters, and teachers – can call this place home.

For more details about Corners Crossing, click here.