22 | FORWARD JANESVILLE Building A Place To Call Home ANNA ROUSSEAU Community Outreach Manager, Habitat for Humanity Waukesha-Jefferson-Rock Forward Janesville Ambassador Describe your role with Habitat for Humanity Waukesha – Jefferson - Rock , and what are some of the ways Habitat supports the growth of its local community? My job is to tell the story of why affordable homeownership matters not only to future homeowners, but their entire community. I strive to build connections with local businesses, nonprofit organizations, potential families, and future champions of Habitat WJR. As to how Habitat supports growth in our communities, it goes far beyond just building homes. Affordable housing is tied into nearly every community aspect. Health, education, workforce development, economic growth – it all connects back to whether or not someone has a safe and affordable place to live. We aren't just home builders. We're striving to create generational stability. What motivated you to get involved as a volunteer Forward Janesville Ambassador? The Ambassadors play a huge role in checking the pulse of the community. We're often the first to welcome new businesses, celebrate growth, or even find prospective businesses for membership. What I've gotten the most out of it would definitely be the connections and relationships I've built. It's one thing to work in a community, especially when you're not from there. It's an entirely different experience to feel like you belong there. Getting involved in Forward Janesville felt like a natural extension of the work I already care deeply about. When you’re not working or volunteering, where would we find you? When I'm not working on homework for my bachelor's in public administration and political science, you can usually find me off on an adventure with my son. I try to travel as much as I can, even if it's just exploring a new city or trail, and he's always right there with me! KEVIN BUSH Founder, Boomerang Home Rentals Forward Janesville Champions Club Member Describe Boomerang Home Rentals and how its mission factors into housing and workforce development. Boomerang Home Rentals started with a simple idea— create quality, well-managed housing that people actually enjoy living in. What began as a small investment quickly grew as we focused on improving properties and delivering a better rental experience. Over time, that approach has allowed us to scale while staying hands-on and communityfocused. At its core, our mission is to provide clean, reliable housing that supports working individuals and families. Quality housing plays a big role in workforce stability, and we take that seriously by maintaining our properties and being responsive landlords. When people have a good place to live, it directly impacts their ability to show up and succeed at work. Why have you found it important to be a member of Forward Janesville and to be a sponsor of our signature events? I’ve been a member of Forward Janesville since 2017, and it’s been a great way to stay connected to what’s happening Housing is about more than roofs and walls — it shapes workforce growth, neighborhood vitality, and the future of our community. In this issue, we spotlight three Forward Janesville members and volunteers whose work connects directly to the local housing landscape, from affordable homeownership and quality rental housing to strengthening the businesses and services that support homeowners. Through their professional roles and community involvement, Anna Rousseau, Kevin Bush, and Cassie Verdin each offer a unique perspective on what it takes to build a stronger, more connected Janesville.
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