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Story Archive

Story of the Week: Jami Mandl

My name is Jamie Mandl, and I have lived in Buckhorn Estates in Des Plaines, Illinois, which is owned and operated by Yes Communities, since July 2025. There are so many things that I like about living in Buckhorn Estates. The community is diverse and caring, people look out for each other, and I feel safe walking around at night. I have met many wonderful people, and it’s clear that this park has so much potential to be a positive and affordable environment. 

In September, I had to leave work after facing serious health complications. I moved here because it was affordable (after rents skyrocketed where I was living), and it’s near my mom. 

I rent my house, which makes Yes Communities responsible for major upkeep. I spent months without a locking front door! When my refrigerator broke, the management refused to respond to multiple maintenance requests – I had to buy a new one myself to ensure that my medications could be stored properly. And don’t get me started on the rodents and water leaks. 

After I reported the rodent infestation to my alderman, Yes Communities gave me an eviction notice in which they admitted that it was for reporting the issue. I am currently facing a costly legal battle to fight this unjust eviction. But I’m not backing down! These predatory companies need to be held responsible for the harm that they cause, and I am continuing to fight to make sure that happens.

Matt Chapman (Waukee, IA)