Our Mission
Homeowners in crisis deserve more than a phone tree.
We exist because the systems meant to protect homeowners — contractor licensing boards, lenders, municipal permit offices — often fail the people who need them most. When a project falls apart, homeowners are left to navigate a maze of specialists alone. We close that gap.
Our Story
Why we started CRC
We created CRC because we saw firsthand the harm families face, including two of our own family members who lost their home to a scam. Seeing and feeling that injustice made this a lifelong mission. We’ve helped families left stranded by disappearing architects, mediated disputes, and guided homeowners back to stability. It’s not just construction, it’s about making sure no one faces these challenges alone. We are here to protect, advocate, and restore hope.
What We Do
Coordinated advocacy, one homeowner at a time.
Casita Restitution Coalition is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded to support homeowners through three of the most destabilizing events in property ownership: botched construction, failed ADU builds, and financial collapse that threatens the home itself.
We are not a law firm, and we do not provide legal advice. What we do is coordinate — connecting homeowners with vetted attorneys, construction professionals, and financial counselors; documenting their case; and advocating on their behalf when the process gets stuck.
Our services are free to the homeowners we serve. We are funded entirely by donations and grants.
Our Principles
Homeowner-first
We work for the homeowner. Period. We don't accept referral fees from contractors or attorneys.
Plainspoken
We explain things clearly. Legal and construction jargon is a barrier. We're here to remove it.
Discretion
Your situation stays confidential. We never publicize cases without explicit consent.
Finish what we start
Taking a case means standing with you until you're on solid ground — not just a warm introduction and a goodbye.
Leadership
A small team with deep experience in construction, real estate, and homeowner advocacy.
Sondra Hooley
President
Winston Bodkin
Operations Coordinator
Jon Melicharek
Board Member
Gary Whitehead
Board Member
Organization Details
Transparency matters.
Casita Restitution Coalition is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization registered in California.
EIN: 33-3339405
Our most recent Form 990 is available on request. Contact us for financial statements, board documentation, or compliance verification.