That desire found its outlet through a simple but powerful idea: helping families access the tools, knowledge, and confidence to lead healthier lives. A moment of synchronicity connected their professional experience in housing with their shared commitment to improving quality of life through wellness and education. What started as a few community-based workshops on how to make nutritious, affordable meals quickly blossomed into something much larger.

Through Love Your Lunchbox, Robin and Nicki worked hand-in-hand with residents in affordable housing communities to address the root causes of health and nutrition challenges. Their early programs provided more than just recipes—they built community connection, self-sufficiency, and awareness of the systemic barriers families faced. As their work deepened, they began to explore the concepts of food deserts and food insecurity—issues that were only beginning to gain attention in 2008.

Over the years, Love Your Lunchbox continued to grow in both scope and vision. As the affordable housing landscape evolved, developers and community organizations began recognizing the vital role that resident services play in fostering stable, thriving communities. This shift opened new opportunities for collaboration and innovation, allowing nonprofits to become true partners in development—now seen as a must-have rather than simply a nice-to-have member of the team.

That evolution, paired with years of grassroots experience and a deep understanding of resident needs, ultimately marked Love Your Lunchbox’s transformation into Compass for Affordable Housing—a trusted partner in affordable housing, focused on enhancing resident well-being and fostering long-term community success.

Today, Compass continues to honor those beginnings while expanding its reach across California. Guided by the same heart, innovation, and spirit of collaboration that shaped its early days, Compass remains committed to building stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities—one resident at a time.