Frequently Asked Questions

What is the mission/vision of Oak Hill Community Connections?

Oak Hill Community Connections (OHCC) is a community-based nonprofit created to co-locate services and providers in a nurturing environment for people to come together to support, encourage, and offer access to resources during life’s most trying moments.

How much money is left to raise/where will my dollars be going?

The OHCC Board of Directors has authorized a $4,000,000 capital budget to be used towards the purchase, renovation and remodeling of the Oak Hill Community Connections building located at 134 Southview St. Owatonna MN. Within the past 16 months, $3,000,000 in donations and commitments have been made towards this project. We need $1,000,000 to achieve our goal.

Are some organizations already in the space?

Phase 1 of the project included the renovation and remodeling of space dedicated to HealthFinders Collaborative, as well as co-located office space for agencies. Phase 1 opened on January 1st , 2026.

Our tenant partners operating in the space include:


When will the project be complete?

Phase 2 of the project will be completed by August 2026. This space will be 2 short-term housing programs - one program focused on women and children experiencing homelessness, the second program will be focused on families experiencing homelessness. The short-term housing programs will be operated by The Lighthouse of Southern Mn. Community Pathways will also have a satellite location within OHCC. The satellite location will offer a mini food, clothing and household goods space and free laundry services for community use.

What is short-term housing?

Short-term housing is housing and supports offered to individuals and families who are currently experiencing homelessness. The Lighthouse of Southern Mn will provide the programming, 24-hour staffing and access to other support services for people staying within the space. Each individual will have their own action plan for success. The short- term housing area rules and requirements for stay include, but are not limited to: chemical dependency, background checks, educational and employment plans.

What’s the benefit of one building for all organizations?

On a good day, it can be difficult and challenging to navigate systems of support and access to care. On a day, week or month with high stress, anxiety and life challenges, it can sometimes feel impossible. The benefits of a co-located facility are numerous: access to a variety of care providers in one location reducing the need for multiple appointments in multiple locations, reduces the risk of unreliable or no transportation and improves the collaborative efforts of the individuals and organizations that are working together.

Will there be volunteer opportunities?

A project of this size and scope does not only take financial commitment from our community - it requires ongoing volunteers who are compassionate about building relationships, offering support and a hand-up to our community members who are the most in need. Oak Hill Community Connections will not only change the landscape of some of our community members by providing support, access to care and building strong relationships for success and independence, it will also change the fabric of our community for the better. Volunteer opportunities will be listed on our tenant agency websites.