Business Directory
The 2024 CO— 100 List|Enduring Businesses

Olu’s Home, Inc.

Olu’s Home, Inc. is a network of group homes in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area, providing residential services for individuals with severe mental illness and developmental disabilities. Founded in 1999 by Gloria Freeman, the company has grown to 12 locations and expanded into related ventures, including early childhood education, senior living facilities, and commercial real estate, all aimed at fostering community care and development.

Founded

1999

Industry

Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals

Notable Facts

Minority-owned, Woman-owned

2024 Honoree in Enduring Businesses

Olu’s Home, Inc. has been recognized as an Enduring Business. This category celebrates businesses that have demonstrated remarkable long-term growth and sustainability, standing the test of time for more than 10 years. These businesses have not only survived but thrived through changing markets and evolving landscapes, proving their resilience, stability, and unwavering commitment to excellence. The CO—100 is the annual list of the 100 best and brightest small and mid-sized businesses in America.


Overview–

Olu’s Home, Inc. Overview

Leadership

Owner/Founder

Gloria Freeman

Contact

Address

1315 12th Ave. North Minneapolis, MN 55411

Chamber

Local Chamber

Saint Paul Area Chamber of Commerce

Chamber Phone

Chamber Address

401 Robert St N, Ste 150 Saint Paul, MN 55101-2001

About Olu’s Home, Inc.

Olu’s Home is a prominent network of group homes that provide community residential services in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area. Founded in 1999 by Gloria Freeman, Olu’s Home began as a single location with a mission to offer a supportive and nurturing environment for individuals with severe mental illness and developmental disabilities who need residential care. Over the years, under Gloria’s leadership, Olu’s Home has expanded significantly, growing from its humble beginnings to encompass twelve locations - each housing between 3-9 people - across the Twin Cities. Gloria Freeman, a dedicated and visionary entrepreneur, has been instrumental in the growth and success of Olu’s Home. When her daughter – Jessica Herod – recognized the need for early childhood education, they co-founded Olus Beginnings, a childcare center in North Minneapolis. This center aims to provide high-quality childcare and early learning experiences in a holistic, chemical-free environment with an on-site kitchen and vegetable garden; all to ensure that children receive the best possible start in life. In addition to her work with Olu’s Home and Olu’s Beginnings, Gloria has engaged in strategic partnerships to further her mission of community development and support. One notable partnership is with Ken McCraley of KMS Construction and Scott O’Brien of Trident Development. Together, they are developing a plot of land in North Minneapolis into a state-of-the-art, 80-unit assisted living facility for senior citizens. This project underscores Gloria’s dedication to addressing the needs of different age groups and providing comprehensive care solutions within the community. Not only has Gloria ventured into residential real estate, but she has also acquired several commercial buildings. Within one of them is another business venture, the House of Beaute Atout, which offers spaces to entrepreneurial professionals in the health and beauty industry. These spaces not only offer a range of beauty services but also reflect Gloria’s passion for entrepreneurship and her ability to diversify her business interests successfully. Overall, Gloria Freeman’s endeavors through Olu’s Home Inc., Olu’s Beginnings LLC, her partnership projects, and House of Beaute Atout LLC highlight her multifaceted approach to community service and business development. Her initiatives continue to make a significant impact on the lives of many, fostering a sense of care, support, and empowerment throughout the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area.

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