Honoring a Legacy: A Special Farewell for Laura Tancredi-Baese, LCSW

It is with both gratitude and heartfelt emotion that I share an important milestone in Home Start’s story. After nearly 18 years of transformative leadership, our beloved CEO, Laura Tancredi-Baese, LCSW, has announced her retirement.
Since joining Home Start, Laura has been the driving force behind our mission to strengthen San Diego’s most at-risk families and communities. Her vision and unwavering dedication have expanded our reach, doubled our impact, and brought hope to countless families. Through her guidance, Home Start’s budget has nearly tripled to more than $13 million, our staff has more than doubled to 115 individuals, our strategic reserves have gone from zero to nearly $2 million, and we now own 5 multi-unit residential properties as assets that we never had before. Her tireless advocacy efforts in both the government and private sectors have secured millions in funding for homeless youth services across California. Her impact is felt in every program we run, every family we serve, and every success story we celebrate.
Home Start's board of directors walking thru construction at one of our housing properties
Laura’s legacy is one of innovation, advocacy, and compassionate service. Under her leadership, Home Start launched life-changing programs, including the Maternity Housing Program, which provides young mothers facing homelessness with stable housing and job training.
Bright Futures Candles
Thrift Boutique

She also spearheaded the Home Start Thrift Boutique and Bright Futures Candles social enterprises - creating employment opportunities for vulnerable youth needing hope.

As we prepare for this transition, we look forward to our Blue Ribbon Gala on Sat. May 3rd where we will recognize & honor Laura’s extraordinary contributions to Home Start & our community.

If her leadership has touched your life in any way, the Gala – along with other opportunities - will give you a chance to join us in celebrating her remarkable tenure, whether by sharing a personal note, making a gift in her honor, or congratulating her in person.

Home Start’s Board of Directors has engaged a consultant to find our next CEO. While change is never easy, we are confident that Laura’s legacy of excellence will guide us forward.

Thank you for being part of our Home Start family. Together, we will continue this next chapter in our critical work of breaking cycles of poverty and child abuse.

With gratitude,
Steven Ephraim, Home Start Board of Directors Chair

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