On June 2nd, 2024, the Venne family faced the loss of their beloved grandmother, Olivia “Grandma O” Venne. A woman of remarkable strength, independence, and selflessness, Grandma O lived a life that defied societal norms. From an early age, she carved her own path, never conforming to expectations. Whether sewing clothes for those in need or serving as a pastoral caregiver well into her 90s, Grandma O’s life was built on compassion, humility, and unwavering dedication to others.
Honoring Grandma O’s Legacy by Passing Her Home to a First-Time Homeowner Through Acts Housing
For over 70 years, the Venne family called their house on S 10th Street—a place where memories were made, holidays celebrated, and love filled every room. After Grandma O’s passing, her family, were left with the difficult question of what to do with this cherished home. They knew they wanted to honor Grandma O’s legacy by ensuring the home would go to someone who needed it, not just for profit.
The family faced offers from buyers who wanted to flip or rent the house, often bidding well above the asking price. Despite the potential for a quick sale, the Venne family knew this wasn’t the right path. Chad explained, “We really wanted to make sure the house went to a good family, not just somebody who was going to flip it or turn it into a rental.” His mother, Gail, echoed this sentiment, saying,
“I wanted to do this for her. With so many people bidding so much over asking prices, those with lower incomes just can’t afford a home. If we could find a family that could raise their children here, that would be wonderful.”
Olivia H. venne
Service, Selflessness, and Strengthening the Community
Grandma O lived her life doing what she knew was right, regardless of what society expected. Her values—caring for others and going against the grain—shaped her family’s decision to sell her home to Acts Housing, ensuring it would be sold to a first-time homeowner instead of an investor. Raised on a farm in Medford, Grandma O was a trailblazer, earning her high school diploma and nursing degree in 1948. She later earned her bachelor’s degree at 72 and spent 50 years in nursing, all while continuing her service as a pastoral caregiver into her 90s. Grandma O’s life exemplified the power of service, kindness, and standing up for what’s right.
Honoring this legacy, the Venne family reached out to Acts Housing. Familiar with Acts through attending the Neighborhood Table and Tour of Homes, her grandson Chad asked, “Is there any way you can help us? My parents want to make sure this home goes to a family who really needs it.” His mother, who was prepared to knock on doors herself to find a deserving family, was overjoyed when Acts Housing stepped in to help.
Closing Day: A Fresh Start for a New Homeowner, and a Heartfelt Thank You to Grandma O for Her Lasting Impact
On December 6th, 2024, the Venne family sold their home to Acts Housing, where it will eventually be passed on to a first-time homeowner in need of a fresh start. “I know she would be ecstatic knowing it’s going to a first-time homeowner, someone really in need of a good start,” Chad reflected, thinking of what Grandma O would have wanted for the home.
For over seven decades, their home on S 10th Street was more than just a house—it was a home filled with love, memories, and the spirit of family. From Grandma O’s garden to the porch built by her late husband Robert, the house holds the legacy of generations. Thanks to the generosity of the Venne family and Acts Housing, this home will continue to provide a fresh start for another deserving family.
At Acts Housing, we believe in the power of community, just as Grandma O did. She sowed seeds of kindness, and now her home will do the same. It’s not just a house; it’s a foundation for new memories, love, and a future built on the values she cherished.
Grandma O’s story reminds us of the power of community, the importance of supporting each other, and the belief that homeownership should be within reach for all. Thanks to the selflessness of the Venne family and Acts Housing’s mission, Grandma O’s legacy will continue to flourish, creating a lasting impact for generations to come.
Olivia Venne kept the original Abstract of Title of the home. This document is the property’s complete legal history from its first record of ownership to present day!
