Philanthropy

A Commitment to Addressing Housing Instability


Dean Weidner was a committed advocate for supporting all sectors of the housing industry, with a particular focus on individuals experiencing homelessness. Throughout his career, he committed millions of dollars to charitable organizations and community partners working to address housing instability in the markets where Weidner Apartment Homes operates.


Among his most notable contributions was his partnership with Catholic Social Services in Anchorage, AK, to fund the Complex Care Shelter. This innovative facility is designed to serve elderly individuals experiencing homelessness who require specialized care and comprehensive support to achieve long-term stability.

Further advancing his commitment to community impact, Dean partnered with the Rasmuson Foundation to develop the 3rd Avenue Resource Navigation Center in Anchorage. This centralized hub connects individuals experiencing homelessness with a wide range of essential services in one location, reducing barriers and simplifying access to the care and support they need.

  • A red wooden restaurant building with a sloped roof sits by a road with a crosswalk under a clear, bright blue sky.

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Photo Credit: Catholic Social Services Alaska.

Dean was also a dedicated supporter of Covenant House Alaska, where he funded the Bridge to Success program in Anchorage. This two-part initiative offers both long-term housing and workforce development, helping young people experiencing homelessness access stable living conditions, counseling services, and career pathways that empower them to become engaged members of their communities.

In addition, he served as a primary funder of the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage, contributing more than $1.6M to support its expansion. The center plays a vital role in preserving, celebrating, and sharing Alaska Native cultures and traditions.

  • Alaska Native Heritage Center with a sloped roof sits by a road with a crosswalk under a clear, bright blue sky.

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Photo Credit: Alaska Native Heritage Center.

  • A row of small, colorful houses with red roofs arranged on a lawn with a clear blue sky in the background.

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Photo Credit: We Fortify

In his hometown of Colorado Springs, Dean supported numerous nonprofit organizations focused on affordable housing and homelessness prevention. His contributions include funding We Fortify’s tiny home community, Working Fusion at Mill Street, which provides youth experiencing homelessness with a stable environment and the resources needed to transition into independent living.

Giving Back Through

Service and Action


Dean's generosity extended beyond financial contributions. Through the company’s annual Weidner Cares initiative, regional teams partner with local nonprofits to volunteer for a full workday dedicated to service. Since the program began in 2013, Weidner Apartment Homes has hosted nearly 140 Weidner Cares events, contributing more than $500,000 in labor and resources to support community organizations.

It’s better to give rather than receive. When you give, you’re fully alive and project the joy of your spirit to others. It’s the basis for humanity and makes you feel good. Weidner Cares allows us to take on projects that let us contribute with our hearts while working together. When we complete a project, we can say, Wow, we really accomplished something today.

- DEAN WEIDNER

Expanding Impact Through

Strategic Partnerships


To learn more about Dean’s philanthropic investments, please explore the press releases below: