Guadalupe Centers (GCI) recently celebrated the grand opening of Villa View Apartments, a brand-new, 50-unit mixed-income complex located at 1616 Hardesty in Kansas City’s Eastside community. Villa View is a step forward in addressing the city’s housing insecurity while also offering a fresh start for many first-time residents. One of those new residents is Alma Mejia, a recent Rockhurst University graduate who took a leap of faith on this new opportunity.
Alma had been working full-time at Café Corazón in the Crossroads when she met Gladys Jaggers, GCI’s Director of Special Events. A casual conversation sparked a life-changing connection: GCI was looking to hire for its Family Support team. With a psychology degree and a personal history rooted in GCI’s summer programs, Alma knew it was a perfect fit. Just four days into her new role as Family Support Assistant, she learned about the Villa View Apartments; her new team encouraged her to apply for a unit.
Despite having recently moved back in with her parents after college, Alma applied. What made the decision easier was the trust she had in GCI. “I felt safe knowing GCI was behind it. I knew I’d be taken care of,” she said.
The apartments were the fresh start she needed: newly built, equipped with modern amenities, and located in a historically rich community she’s eager to explore. “I felt like everything aligned perfectly,” said Alma. “I didn’t think I would get this job. And within the first few days of working, I found out about the apartments. It was too good of an opportunity to pass up, to live on my own, step out of my comfort zone, and feel secure knowing GCI is the owner.”
Residents began moving in mid-August, and the complex was fully leased before move-in day—proof of the community’s strong need and GCI’s deep-rooted commitment to providing meaningful solutions to housing insecurity.
For Alma, this experience feels like a full-circle moment.
“Growing up, I had dance practice at GCI, or I was in their summer program at the middle school. Now I work for the same organization. Everything happens for a reason. Looking back, I never would have guessed I’d be here.”
Today, that same organization that supported Alma as a child continues to support her as an adult. Villa View is within walking distance of GCI’s Family Support Center—convenient for both her commute and her community work. Perched atop a hill, the apartments offer stunning views of the city Alma now calls home.
While having her own place is a major milestone, Alma finds even deeper value in the connection between her role and her new neighbors. GCI’s property management team is actively engaging residents to ensure they’re connected to wraparound services and other resources. Alma sees this as a unique opportunity. “Now I can connect with my neighbors, support them, and be that bridge to GCI if they need it,” she said.
Beyond work, Alma is most excited about settling in and making her space her own. “I love hosting, so I’m excited to have a place that feels welcoming and cozy. Somewhere I can be proud of. A place that reflects me—the colors I wear and love—an external version of who I am.”
GCI is happy to offer a new home to people like Alma, who praise the security of the place and the welcoming environment. Being able to make new connections within the community has been beneficial to Alma in terms of her work, but also in feeling a sense of belonging and security.
