The annual Haven House Pancake Palooza was a resounding success, raising over $100,000 to support families in need. Thanks to the generosity of our community, this event continues to provide critical resources that help families experiencing homelessness secure stable housing and brighter futures.
The heart of the event was the incredible fundraising competition among our star servers – Mark McDaniel, Sister Pat Newhouse, Bino Manjasseril, and Michelle Massey – who brought energy, enthusiasm, and a touch of friendly rivalry to the table. Mark once again emerged as the top fundraiser, bringing in a staggering $58,633 and securing his title as the Pancake Palooza Champion!
Sister Pat, a beloved figure in the Haven House family, was honored with the People’s Choice Award for receiving the most individual donations. This year’s Pancake Palooza was particularly special as we celebrated Sister Pat’s 10 years of dedication to Haven House. She was presented with the Sister Pat Impact Award, a tribute to her tireless work and commitment to supporting families. As she steps away from this tradition, her legacy will continue to inspire us all.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the Cinnaire team, board members, and partners who made this event a record-breaking success. To everyone who donated, attended and participated – thank you. Your generosity and commitment to Haven House’s mission make all the difference ensuring families have the support they need to find stability and hope.
As we reflect on this incredible achievement, we are reminded that the true power of Pancake Palooza lies in the generosity and compassion of our community. Thank you for making a difference – one pancake at a time! We look forward to seeing you again next year for another unforgettable celebration.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
A special thank you to Mark’s sponsors: Plante Moran, Lockwood Companies, Milner & Caringella, Tri-Star Trust, Ginosko Development Company, Maner Costerisan, MDV Housing, River Caddis Communities, Albie’s Food Products, Multifamily Coalition for Affordable Housing, U SNAP BAC, Baker Tilly, Martindale Property Consultants, Chesapeake Community Advisors, V. Randolph Brown Consulating, MHT Housing, Personal Mastery Programs, and Oakwood Construction.
Thanks to those who joined to support the families at Haven House. This year’s event is over but generosity is always appreciated: donation to Pancake Palooza today – every dollar makes a real difference. This year’s Pancake Palooza was the best one yet!
With gratitude, 
Mark
About Mark:
In 1993, Mark launched the Michigan Capital Fund for Housing, a tax credit fund to support affordable housing in Michigan. Now known as Cinnaire, the organization has invested more than $4.9 billion in community and economic development across a 9-state footprint. Mark has strategically diversified Cinnaire to provide access to permanent debt financing, construction lending, technical assistance, predevelopment lending, real estate development, youth leadership training, and title services. Under Mark’s leadership, Cinnaire has been recognized nationally as one of the Top 50 Nonprofits to work for, a Crain’s Detroit Business Cool Place to Work, and a Detroit Free Press Top Workplace.
Mark has served on more than 25 local, state, and national non-profit and housing boards. He is currently or has served as a founding board member for Michigan Habitat for Humanity; Michigan Housing Council, past president; NH&RA, board member; FHLB Indiana, board member and chair of Housing Advisory Council; Michigan Community Capital, board member. Mark is the honorary Chairperson and master of ceremonies for the Greater Lansing Area MLK Commission Holiday luncheon, the nation’s largest MLK day celebration.
