The Inn of Chaska

  Beyond New Beginnings and the Community Asset Foundation have joined forces to address a critical need in our community: housing insecurity among young mothers. We are developing a four-unit building in Chaska, modeled after Beyond New Beginnings successful existing facility on Walnut Street, to provide safe and supportive housing for these vulnerable moms. Over 40 years ago, the New Beginnings program was established to support young, pregnant students committed to continuing their education. To expand this mission, the non-profit organization Beyond New Beginnings was founded, offering ongoing support to these young families. A major milestone was achieved in 2019 when the non-profit, in partnership with the Carver County CDA, began operating in a renovated four-plex in downtown Chaska.

Despite these efforts, a critical need remains: affordable housing for young mothers and their children. The Inn of Chaska seeks to address this need by providing permanent, affordable housing for four women and their children in collaboration with Beyond New Beginnings. This partnership strives to ensure that no young mother faces homelessness.  TO VIEW A VIDEO ON HOW BEYOND NEW BEGINNINGS IS SERVING THIS NEED NOW CLICK HERE:

 Every child deserves a safe and stable home—it is a fundamental necessity. Yet, a 2021 study revealed that 1.3 million infants, toddlers, and preschoolers—1 in 18 children under the age of six—experience family homelessness each year in the United States. In Minnesota alone, the Wilder Foundation reported that on any given night in 2023, 2,962 children and their parents were homeless.

The impact of homelessness on children is profound, affecting their health and developmental outcomes. The early years of life are critical for establishing a foundation for future growth, achievement, and well-being. Community leaders must create responsive interventions to mitigate these effects.

At Chaska’s Beyond New Beginnings program, staff frequently work with 6 to 9 young mothers and their children who lack stable housing. This underscores the urgent need for sustainable solutions.

The vision is to build a four-unit affordable housing complex in downtown Chaska, near the Beyond New Beginnings facility. The goal is simple but powerful: to ensure that no young mother is left without a warm and secure place to stay on a cold winter night in Chaska.

The project will be structured to guarantee its sustainability, with a permanent use and a viable income stream to support ongoing operations. Residents will receive comprehensive case management services through the Beyond New Beginnings program, focusing on young moms navigating the challenges of parenthood and giving hope for a brighter future. 

The Inn of Chaska represents a broad community collaboration, operated by experienced housing professionals and supported by local organizations offering services such as meals, mental health support, employment training, and housing assistance.

The proposed two-story building will feature four two-bedroom units, each with a private entrance. The exterior will combine brick and Hardi-board siding, ensuring long-term durability with minimal maintenance. 

The total construction cost is estimated at $1.2 million, with 50% funding already secured to cover the project. Construction is scheduled to begin in May 2026, with an anticipated opening by the end of the year.

Donations to the Inn of Chaska qualify for an 85% Minnesota income tax credit. For example, a $5,000 donation would reduce the donor's state income tax liability by $4,250, bringing the out-of-pocket cost to less than $600.

Please help us ensure there is always room in the Inn for young mothers who choose to bring new life into the world. For more information about donating, please contact Bob Roepke at 612-414-1284