Alumni Spotlight: Shkëlqim Kelmendi, LT'18

Shkëlqim Kelmendi, LT'18 Executive Director, Housing Connector

“Housing Connector’s success would not have been possible without the encouragement and support of LT classmates and alumni. The LT community rallied behind me and not only provided direction but also their time and resources to help bring our vision to reality.”

Six months after graduating from LT, I launched a new organization, Housing Connector, to increase access and remove barriers to housing for individuals experiencing homelessness. Our approach aims to build bridges between private landlords and nonprofit service providers in order to quickly find homes for families and individuals experiencing homelessness. In our first four months, we were able to connect over 300 individuals to permanent homes.

Housing Connector’s success would not have been possible without the encouragement and support of LT classmates and alumni. The LT community rallied behind me and not only provided direction but also their time and resources to help bring our vision to reality.

Ultimately, that is what makes LT unlike any other opportunity in the region. LT is not a program to attend; it is a community to belong to. A community made up of dedicated and compassionate leaders who are there to lift up one another through every season of life. I am so thankful to have been in LT 2018 and for the amazing friendships formed that I know will last a lifetime.