Our Story

 

Two women, one mission. To support others to thrive.

 

When Sydne and Carlee first met, it was love at first sight (from a professional perspective). Sydne expressed her desire to “change the world” and Carlee laughed, because that’s what she does when she’s nervous. She could tell Syd wasn’t kidding. Carlee started to tear up thinking of how many people face challenges in their lives. She said, “I just want everyone to thrive and live a fulfilling life.”

 

Shortly after that meeting, Carlee joined the MRK team as the Director of Resident Services. Their initial desire to change the world and provide opportunity remained topics of discussion. The COVID pandemic was the final push they needed.

 

During 2020 and 2021, Sydne and Carlee asked family and friends to provide critical support to the residents of MRK’s 20+ communities. Generous donors answered the call with enthusiasm. Carlee and Sydne were inspired by the acts of kindness they witnessed. It seemed that changing the world was a motivation shared by others.

 

It was a Saturday morning in the beginning of 2022 when the plan finally became clear. On a staycation in South Florida, Sydne and her husband Marc landed on home ownership as the priority.

Home ownership creates wealth because it is one of the largest, if not the largest, assets you can own. To attain that goal, people need access to education and financial literacy and savings. Sydne called Carlee that morning. She said, “Carlee, we want to start a non-profit and we want you to run it!”

 

They joined forces and BLOOM began!

The Potential Impact is Huge

11000

Residents

4000

Apartment Units

26

Properties

5

States

Impact Goals

Increase the number of residents attending post-secondary school and professional certificate programs

Provide financial education, homeownership preparedness and security through one-on-one coaching and online workshops provided by a financial wellbeing coach

Fund qualifying grants for community building and social engagement events at participating properties

Board of Directors

Carlee Chiate Headshot_v1

Carlee Chiate

Executive Director
BLOOM Here, Inc.
Sydne Garchik Headshot_v1

Sydne Garchik

Founder & President
MRK Partners, Inc.
Dwayne George Headshot_v1

Dwayne George

EVP, Head of Production
Merchants Capital
Katrina Matthews headshot

Katrina Matthews

Program Analyst, D.C. Department of Employment Services
Marc Russell Headshot New (1)

Marc Russell

Co-Founder, AdvicePeriod
You BLOOM. I BLOOM. We all BLOOM.
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