Transaction Announcement + Hands of Heartland

Lutz M&A announced that it served as exclusive financial advisor to Hands of Heartland Inc. (the “Company”) in connection with its recent partnership with Evolve Capital. Based in Bellevue, Nebraska, Hands of Heartland provides home and community-based residential and vocational support services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Evolve Capital is a private equity firm based in Dallas that is focused exclusively on investing in entrepreneurial businesses.
The transaction closed in November 2017. Courtney Kline founded Hands of Heartland in 1997. Post-transaction, she will retain equity ownership in the company while continuing to serve as CEO.
Ms. Kline commented, “I am overjoyed about our partnership with Evolve Capital. They bring a deep understanding of healthcare and our unique industry in particular. They also have a track record of success with companies of our size, so they appreciate the challenges we face and the opportunities ahead of us. This represents an exciting new chapter for Hands of Heartland as we take on new initiatives.”
On working with Lutz M&A, Ms. Kline stated, “Lutz marketed the Company with skill and knowledge all the way to closing. I am very grateful for their professional guidance throughout the process.”
Commenting for Lutz M&A, Bill Kenedy added, “We were thrilled to help Hands of Heartland find a new strategic partner. The Company is already a market leader in its industry and is poised for continued success in the years ahead. ”

- Activator, Achiever, Individualization, Analytical, Focus
Bill Kenedy
Bill Kenedy, Consulting & M&A Shareholder, began his career in 1990. He established Lutz's M&A practice in 2015 and has led its growth since then while serving on both the firm's board of directors and the Lutz Financial board.
Specializing in mergers and acquisitions, Bill guides business owners through critical transition decisions. He provides comprehensive exit planning and transaction services, with specialized expertise in the construction industry. Bill values helping owners achieve optimal outcomes by developing strategic solutions tailored to their unique situations.
At Lutz, Bill says it straight, offering candid guidance that helps owners make informed decisions about their businesses' futures. His direct approach to setting realistic expectations, combined with his focused drive to get deals done, has made him the go-to advisor for business transitions. As a Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA), Certified Public Accountant (CPA), and Accredited Business Valuator (ABV), Bill brings technical expertise to every transaction. Under his leadership, the M&A practice has grown from a concept to a cornerstone of Lutz's service offerings.
Bill lives in Elkhorn, NE, with his wife, Angela. Outside the office, he spends time fishing, hunting, and following various sports teams.
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