Latest news with #ABetterWay
Yahoo
12-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Norman is partnering with Mental Health Association to prevent homelessness. How will it work?
Amid increased homelessness issues in Norman, the city is partnering with a Tulsa-based nonprofit to expand a new initiative that would connect members of the unhoused with employment opportunities and supportive housing. Mental Health Association Oklahoma, a longtime organization tackling mental health issues, announced the initiative 'A Better Way – Opportunity Knocks' in Norman on May 9. The program, being funded by Norman's opioid settlement funding, is meant to address substance abuse and prevent overdoses by engaging with the local homeless population directly at encampments and shelters. Participants are offered a two-week program that would involve a daily meal and compensation for a day's work. Cash payment would be provided at the end of each shift, and after completing the program, staff will connect the participant with a case manager to help them access housing resources, permanent job placements, behavioral health care and other wraparound services. Carrie Blumert, CEO of Mental Health Association and a former Oklahoma County commissioner, said the start of the Norman program represented the nonprofit's first expansion outside of its headquartered facilities in Tulsa and the Lottie House in Oklahoma City. 'Something that we pride ourselves on at Mental Health Association is we say we're boots on the ground,' Blumert said. 'We go to where people are. We will go under a bridge. We will go to someone on a street corner and engage with them and build trust with them and get them access to services.' More: Homeless people in Oklahoma want jobs. It's easier said than done | Opinion The initial 'Better Way' program launched in Tulsa in 2018 and has seen success over the years. According to Mental Health Association officials, Tulsa participants have collected more than 8,000 bags of litter over the last seven years while working with beautification projects in Tulsa's parks and other public spaces. Last year, 67 participants in Tulsa transitioned into long-term, full-time work, and between January and August 2024, at least 14 people moved from the streets into stable housing. Elements of a similar approach with providing supportive services for the unhoused population also have seen demonstrable success in Oklahoma City, with the Key to Home Partnership's Encampment Rehousing Initiative. Mental Health Association Oklahoma is among dozens of partner agencies for that program, which has so far housed at least 355 people since 2023. Related: As homeless demographics change, Point In Time count informs where services most needed But issues with homelessness have become a flashpoint of debate in Norman. Last year's Point-in-Time Count in Cleveland County found 240 people experiencing homelessness, with at least 91 sleeping outdoors, an increase of 23% from the 2023 survey. A recent controversial bill from Lisa Standridge, a state senator representing Norman, proposed zoning restrictions prohibiting new homeless shelters from being approved within 3,000 feet of a school, public library, city park or child day care facilities in cities with fewer than 300,000 residents. The bill died in the House in April. Norman Mayor Larry Heikkila, who will leave office on July 1, had supported Standridge's bill because he said the city lacked enough financial resources to adequately support the homeless population. Similarly, he said the city's 'Better Way' initiative had been in the works for more than two years but was delayed largely due to issues with securing funding. But the city's opioid settlement funds, being paid out over 18 years, helped finally make the program a reality. ''A Better Way – Opportunity Knocks' is more than just a program; it's a call to action,' Heikkila said. 'Through these work opportunities and direct access to services, this program offers a path for those who are ready to take personal responsibility for their future. This program is also a reflection of our willingness to think creatively about real funding solutions, and by strategically using resources such as opioid settlement funds, we are turning the damage done by a national crisis into an opportunity for local healing and long-term impact.' More: Oklahoma bill aims to prevent Norman from using city funds for a homeless shelter, author says Mental Health Association staff and Norman officials celebrated the new partnership during a May launch event in downtown Norman. Michele Loudenback, the city's environmental and sustainability manager, said residents can expect to see a van branded with 'A Better Way' logos roving the streets by June 1. 'It's just been a process of fine-tuning the program and finding the funding,' Loudenback said. 'And we've had quite a bit of conflict between business owners and some advocates in the community, and I think all cities have this tension, so I think this is also going to be a great way to ease some of that conflict, too, and bring that connection so that people can see each other.' This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma nonprofit, Norman partner on homelessness initiative
Business Wire
22-04-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Finance of America Launches New Ad Campaign Highlighting How Homeowners 55 and Up Unlock Home Equity in Their Next Chapter
PLANO, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Finance of America Reverse LLC ('Finance of America' or the 'Company'), a leading provider of home equity-based financing solutions for a modern retirement and a part of Finance of America Companies Inc. (NYSE: FOA), today announced the launch of its new brand platform 'A Better Way with FOA', alongside the launch of a national advertising campaign featuring TV spots and digital ads rolling out to audiences across the country. This campaign launch is a groundbreaking moment for the Finance of America brand and marks a pivotal step in the Company's transformation as it evolves its marketing approach to reach new customers. The category defining ad campaign is part of an innovative shift in marketing strategy at Finance of America and is designed to enhance brand visibility and connect with a new generation of customers through modernized messaging. The goal of the campaign and its new creative work is to position Finance of America as an innovative leader in the home equity and reverse mortgage space – placing reverse mortgages squarely in the consumer's consideration set alongside comparable tools like home equity loans and lines of credit. 'Our new campaign marks a significant change in how we engage with our audience,' said Kristen Sieffert, President of Finance of America. 'We are highlighting how borrowers can benefit from home equity, making these solutions more relatable and accessible. With over 50% of the average senior homeowner's wealth being tied up in home equity, leveraging this asset both empowers people to achieve their retirement goals and enables resilience against life's unexpected turns – from market volatility, rising costs of living, or unexpected medical events. At a time when conversations about aging, financial flexibility, and quality of life are evolving, Finance of America is educating the market on how home equity can be used as a timely, valuable tool for a wide range of options. A 'Better Way' signifies the power of having a broader plan, one that is built for the modern retirement landscape that American homeowners are facing today.' 'Our customers are increasingly comfortable with the idea of leveraging home equity to pursue important life and financial goals,' said Chris Moschner, Chief Marketing Officer of Finance of America. 'This new campaign positions reverse mortgages among a broader consideration set of home equity offerings, while specifically highlighting why they can be a better solution for homeowners over 55. The campaign also establishes Finance of America as a trusted brand and partner. Because for us, 'A better way with FOA' not only reflects what we offer, but also how we do business, given our longstanding commitment to education and customer service.' The company's new ads are designed to create awareness of the many different ways that its range of products can be used. For example, one of the new ads features the moving story of a hardworking family that is part of the 'Sandwich Generation' – supporting their aging parents while also aspiring to achieve their personal retirement dreams. In the ad, the family renovates their home to make it both grandparent-friendly and jam band-friendly for the rock and roll duo to have a private sound studio so their musical fun wouldn't disturb their parents. In this story, a reverse mortgage allowed them to unlock their home's equity to achieve their financial goals without an added monthly mortgage payment, allowing them to spend more time focusing on bonding together, worry-free. These powerful experiences illustrate the campaign catchline that when it comes to planning a modern retirement – there's a better way with FOA. 'A Better Way with FOA' marks a shift toward meeting the customers of today and tomorrow, while highlighting examples of how the product can be used and the benefits they can offer in a compelling and captivating way. Integrated creative agency David&Goliath served as Creative Agency of Record for the new campaign. To maximize reach and engagement, the new advertising campaign integrates a mix of traditional and online channels. These include refreshed television ads, social media content, and digital and out-of-home placements – ensuring a cohesive brand presence across multiple touchpoints. Pilot advertisements were first launched with select media partners, with new ads being rolled out nationally. About Finance of America Finance of America Reverse LLC dba Finance of America (NMLS 2285) is a modern retirement solutions platform that provides customers with access to an innovative range of retirement offerings centered on the home and is the consumer brand and reverse mortgage operating subsidiary of its parent company, Finance of America Companies Inc. (NYSE: FOA). In addition to the reverse mortgage business, Finance of America Companies Inc. offers capital markets and portfolio management capabilities primarily to optimize the distribution of its originated loans to investors. Finance of America is headquartered in Plano, Texas. For more information, please visit
Yahoo
22-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Finance of America Launches New Ad Campaign Highlighting How Homeowners 55 and Up Unlock Home Equity in Their Next Chapter
"A Better Way with FOA" Empowers Homeowners to Unlock their Home's Hidden Value to Achieve their Retirement Goals PLANO, Texas, April 22, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Finance of America Reverse LLC ("Finance of America" or the "Company"), a leading provider of home equity-based financing solutions for a modern retirement and a part of Finance of America Companies Inc. (NYSE: FOA), today announced the launch of its new brand platform "A Better Way with FOA", alongside the launch of a national advertising campaign featuring TV spots and digital ads rolling out to audiences across the country. This campaign launch is a groundbreaking moment for the Finance of America brand and marks a pivotal step in the Company's transformation as it evolves its marketing approach to reach new customers. The category defining ad campaign is part of an innovative shift in marketing strategy at Finance of America and is designed to enhance brand visibility and connect with a new generation of customers through modernized messaging. The goal of the campaign and its new creative work is to position Finance of America as an innovative leader in the home equity and reverse mortgage space – placing reverse mortgages squarely in the consumer's consideration set alongside comparable tools like home equity loans and lines of credit. "Our new campaign marks a significant change in how we engage with our audience," said Kristen Sieffert, President of Finance of America. "We are highlighting how borrowers can benefit from home equity, making these solutions more relatable and accessible. With over 50% of the average senior homeowner's wealth being tied up in home equity, leveraging this asset both empowers people to achieve their retirement goals and enables resilience against life's unexpected turns – from market volatility, rising costs of living, or unexpected medical events. At a time when conversations about aging, financial flexibility, and quality of life are evolving, Finance of America is educating the market on how home equity can be used as a timely, valuable tool for a wide range of options. A 'Better Way' signifies the power of having a broader plan, one that is built for the modern retirement landscape that American homeowners are facing today." "Our customers are increasingly comfortable with the idea of leveraging home equity to pursue important life and financial goals," said Chris Moschner, Chief Marketing Officer of Finance of America. "This new campaign positions reverse mortgages among a broader consideration set of home equity offerings, while specifically highlighting why they can be a better solution for homeowners over 55. The campaign also establishes Finance of America as a trusted brand and partner. Because for us, 'A better way with FOA' not only reflects what we offer, but also how we do business, given our longstanding commitment to education and customer service." The company's new ads are designed to create awareness of the many different ways that its range of products can be used. For example, one of the new ads features the moving story of a hardworking family that is part of the "Sandwich Generation" – supporting their aging parents while also aspiring to achieve their personal retirement dreams. In the ad, the family renovates their home to make it both grandparent-friendly and jam band-friendly for the rock and roll duo to have a private sound studio so their musical fun wouldn't disturb their parents. In this story, a reverse mortgage allowed them to unlock their home's equity to achieve their financial goals without an added monthly mortgage payment, allowing them to spend more time focusing on bonding together, worry-free. These powerful experiences illustrate the campaign catchline that when it comes to planning a modern retirement – there's a better way with FOA. "A Better Way with FOA" marks a shift toward meeting the customers of today and tomorrow, while highlighting examples of how the product can be used and the benefits they can offer in a compelling and captivating way. Integrated creative agency David&Goliath served as Creative Agency of Record for the new campaign. To maximize reach and engagement, the new advertising campaign integrates a mix of traditional and online channels. These include refreshed television ads, social media content, and digital and out-of-home placements – ensuring a cohesive brand presence across multiple touchpoints. Pilot advertisements were first launched with select media partners, with new ads being rolled out nationally. About Finance of America Finance of America Reverse LLC dba Finance of America (NMLS 2285) is a modern retirement solutions platform that provides customers with access to an innovative range of retirement offerings centered on the home and is the consumer brand and reverse mortgage operating subsidiary of its parent company, Finance of America Companies Inc. (NYSE: FOA). In addition to the reverse mortgage business, Finance of America Companies Inc. offers capital markets and portfolio management capabilities primarily to optimize the distribution of its originated loans to investors. Finance of America is headquartered in Plano, Texas. For more information, please visit View source version on Contacts For Finance of America Media: pr@ For Finance of America Investor Relations: ir@
USA Today
18-02-2025
- Science
- USA Today
Dr. Richard Larson's Model-Based Thinking Solves Everyday Problems
Jason Phillips Contributor Hear this story For more than five decades, Richard Larson, PhD, has shaped the field of operations research with a deep commitment to solving real-world problems. Since 1969, he has worked as a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Though he is now retired, Dr. Larson's expertise has influenced urban emergency response systems, educational innovation and model-based thinking. An Invitation to Greatness The power of mathematics and analytics is the central focus of Dr. Larson's influential career. The field of operations research has broad applications, and throughout his career, he has served as a bridge between mathematics and practical problem-solving. The work he's done has impacted public policy and improved decision-making processes. Dr. Larson found inspiration in the mentorship of professor Al Drake, who invited him to attend MIT. The guidance he received led to a 54-year tenure at the prestigious institution. As a professor, he applied advanced theoretical knowledge in ways that impact cities and institutions worldwide. A Mathematical Model That Saves Lives Dr. Larson co-founded an applied research and consulting firm known over the years as ENFORTH Corporation and Q.E.D. The firm aims to share its work beyond the halls of academia. This endeavor reflects his focus on the practical implementation of ideas, as he believes research should contribute to tangible improvements in society. Dr. Larson's Hypercube Queuing Model, a sophisticated mathematical framework that optimizes emergency response systems, exemplifies this improvement mindset. This model improved how police, fire and medical services allocate resources. A key outcome of this project was faster response times in critical situations. A Champion for Open-Access Education A passion for education is an integral part of Dr. Larson's career. As a co-founder of MIT BLOSSOMS (Blended Learning Open-Source Science Or Math Studies), he seeks to make science and mathematics more accessible. This initiative, created alongside MIT professor Dan Frey and his late wife, Mary Elizabeth Murray, offers students worldwide free science and math video lessons. The program is one of the earliest large-scale open-source learning repositories and is available on YouTube. Dr. Larson has also been president of the Operations Research Society of America (ORSA) and the Institute for Operations Research and Management Sciences (INFORMS). These leadership roles embody his dedication to knowledge sharing within the industry. A Better Way to Make Decisions INFORMS published Dr. Larson's latest work, 'Model Thinking for Everyday Life," in 2023. This reader-friendly book encapsulates his lifelong interest in analytical reasoning. The guide is a resource on how structured thinking models benefit everyday decisions. Readers can use the information to refine their decision-making skills. Dr. Larson hopes to change how people approach personal and professional problem-solving. As he sees it, model-based thinking can lead to better business, government or daily life choices. Looking Ahead to Impact More Lives Even after retirement, Dr. Larson continues his involvement with the National Academy of Engineering and supports various charitable initiatives. At some point, he plans on expanding the reach of his book onto other platforms, such as Barnes & Noble. He aims to promote the adoption of mathematical models in everyday decision-making. For those aspiring to enter operations research or related fields, Dr. Larson advises staying open to new ideas and incorporating personal experiences into one's work. This acumen has helped him make life-changing contributions to emergency response optimization, open-access education and model-based thinking. Applying mathematical rigor to real-world problems solidifies his influence beyond academia. About Marquis Who's Who®: Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms worldwide. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website,
