Leading with Purpose: Taylor Montano's Commitment to Helping Others Find Home

For many people, serving on a nonprofit board is a way to give back.  For one of Grandma's House of Hope's dedicated board leaders, it's much more personal.

Before becoming Chairperson of the Board, Taylor Montano was first a staff member.

"I actually used to work for Grandma's House of Hope," she shares.  "While working there, I developed a passion for the mission and the unique role Grandma's House plays in serving people experiencing homelessness."

Today, Taylor serves as Director of Operations for Orange County United Way's United for Financial Security Initiative, leading efforts to help families build lasting financial stability through stronger safety nets, financial coaching, and opportunities to earn a sustainable living wage, all key factors in preventing homelessness before it occurs. Yet her connection to Grandma's House of Hope remains strong because of the organization's direct impact on individuals who are already experiencing homelessness.

"It's meaningful to see both sides of the work," she explains.  "In my work with Orange County United Way, we're helping prevent homelessness.  At Grandma's House of Hope, we're helping people who are actively experiencing homelessness find stability and a path forward."

As a board member, she helps guide the organization's strategic growth, financial sustainability, and future vision.  But what continues to inspire him most is witnessing the transformation that happens every day.

"The most rewarding part of serving on the board is seeing the incredible growth of the organization over the years," she says. 

"Grandma's House has always been committed to serving people who often have nowhere else to turn—individuals with complex situations who may not qualify for other programs."

That commitment is especially important as homelessness continues to impact communities throughout Orange County.

"Organizations like Grandma's House of Hope are essential,"  she says.  "When people are experiencing a crisis, they need somewhere safe to go and a team that's ready to help them rebuild."

What sets Grandma's House of Hope apart, in her view, is the organization's unique shelter model.

Unlike large, warehouse-style shelters, Grandma's House of Hope creates environments that feel like home.  Participants  live in residential neighborhoods, remain connected to their communities, and often share space with only one or a couple of roommates.

"There's a dignity that comes with that," she says.  "People aren't separated from the community—they're part of it."

That sense of dignity, combined with compassionate care, housing navigation, and individualized support, helps participants take meaningful steps toward permanent housing and long-term stability.

"Ultimately, our goal is simple," she says. "We want to help people find permanent housing and regain the stability that many of us take for granted."

Looking ahead, Taylor sees tremendous opportunity for growth.

"The need continues to grow, and I believe Grandma's House of Hope is ready to meet that challenge," she says.  "I see a future where we continue strengthening our programs and helping even more people find home."

For community members considering supporting Grandma's House of Hope, her message is straightforward.

"If you're looking for a place where your donation will truly make an impact, you can be confident it will be here," she says.  "Grandma's House of Hope fills a critical gap in our community, helping individuals who simply need support, stability, and an opportunity to rebuild their lives."

Because at the heart of every success story is something we all deserve—a safe place to call home.