Haven for Heroes leaders describe volunteer‑driven restoration of Anoka State Hospital cottages, say program is "saving lives"

Commissioner Hinrich invited Haven for Heroes co‑director Bart Ward to brief the board on the nonprofit’s work rehabilitating cottages on the Anoka State Hospital campus for veterans and families.

Ward told commissioners the nonprofit began as Eagle’s Healing Nest in 2017, became Haven for Heroes in 2018, and operates substance‑free board and lodging that provides peer support and transitional housing for veterans with homelessness, mental‑health or addiction challenges. He said the county leases four buildings to the city of Anoka, which subleases them to Haven for Heroes, and the nonprofit depends heavily on donated labor and materials.

Ward cited specific investments and donations: the county has provided about $1.2 million for Cottage 2 and approximately $500,000 for Cottage 4; volunteers have numbered roughly 1,200; Marvin Windows donated windows valued at $250,000 for Cottage 3 and about $750,000 in windows for the auditorium; GAF Materials supplied a warrantied roof system for Cottage 3; and multiple local contractors and unions have contributed labor and materials. He described subcontractor and volunteer coordination—everything from roofing and mechanical work to concrete donations and envelope specialists used to seal foundations.

Ellen, a board member who spoke after Ward, said the organization is ‘saving lives,’ adding that volunteers and court‑ordered participants from county corrections often continue to help after completing required hours. Ellen said Haven for Heroes prioritizes confidentiality for residents, particularly women who have experienced sexual trauma, and highlighted that Cottage 4 is reserved for women and children.

Commissioners praised the partnership between the county, the city of Anoka and the nonprofit. Commissioner Reiner said he was "truly inspiring" after touring the campus; Commissioner Meiser thanked volunteers and local leaders. The board offered public thanks to contractors, unions and volunteers cited by Ward.

The presentation was informational; no formal action was taken.

Ending: The board moved on after recognition and applause; staff and commissioners noted continued county support and the ongoing need for volunteer coordination and building maintenance.