Erin Bracke Shares How Vacasa Believes in Supporting Communities and Making a Positive Social Impact to Drive Long-Lasting Change
Q: Why did your organization support the 2022 Austin Habitat for Humanity Woman Build?
A: At Vacasa, we believe in supporting communities and making a positive social impact. We also believe that the best vacations happen in vibrant communities, so we are proud to support communities and make a positive social impact to drive long-lasting change. With a vision to build strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter, Austin Habitat for Humanity aligns with our values and goals to help families invest in their futures.
Now, this event is particularly close to my heart because of the work we’ll be doing AND because it’s a women’s build. We are proud to have many bright, strong, caring women and leaders in our organization that plan to represent Vacasa!
Q: How do you and your organization empower women in the Austin community?
A: We currently have an Employee Resource Group, “Womxn-at-vacasa,” which is a safe space for the womxn of Vacasa and their allies to share resources, events, awareness days, and to provide general support to one another. In the past, we’ve also led groups such as P.O.W.E.R. (Professional Organization of Women’s Empowerment and Representation) and hosted women-led community outreach in the Austin area. We look forward to continuing our focus and commitment to elevating our communities!
Erin Bracke and the Vacasa Team Rolling Up Their Sleeves on the Austin Habitat Construction Site
Q: Why is giving back to affordable housing organizations in our community important to you?
A: I’m always interested in ways to give back and lift others. Affordable housing is one big way we can make a direct local difference.
In the U.S., over 20 million families spend over half their total income on housing alone, leaving less for other necessities. Furthermore, hundreds of thousands have no home at all. Access to affordable housing can provide critical stability and lower the risk of vulnerable families becoming homeless. Being a part of the solution is important and rewarding.
Affordable housing can also contribute to a community’s health, both directly and indirectly, by reducing commutes (and therefore pollution), promoting a vibrant and socially diverse population, and elevating the local economy.
Q: What does home mean to you?
A: Home to me is a safe, personal space where my loved ones are near. It’s somewhere I feel secure and comfortable enough to be myself. It’s a sanctuary with smiles, tears, pets, and family, where I can refill my cup. It’s not about size or fancy decor; it’s a place of peace and an extension of myself.
The Vacasa Team Building Community On-Site During the Spring 2022 Build Season
Thank You to Our Women Build Partners That Have Come Together to Build More Affordable Housing in Austin!
