The Road to Noblesville: One Family’s Search for the Perfect Place to Call Home

On a summer evening in Noblesville, Indiana, the Henry children race down the sidewalk of their quiet cul-de-sac, their laughter echoing off rows of neatly kept homes. From the backyard deck, LeeTosha and Zachary Henry watch with the easy comfort of parents who know their kids are safe. Beyond the yard, a nature preserve stretches into the distance creating a serene backdrop far removed from the constant hum of their former life in Baltimore.

Two years ago, this was just a vision - today, it’s home. Thanks to research, determination and a timely introduction to MakeMyMove, the relocation program that ultimately brought them here.

The Search for the Right Fit

The idea began when Zachary’s mother spotted an ad for MakeMyMove. “At first, it was just a conversation starter,” LeeTosha recalled. “But the more we looked into it, the more we realized this could be the right move. Not just geographically but for the kind of life we want to live.”

Zachary, a military veteran, approached the decision with a mission-like focus. He evaluated potential destinations for airport access, economic growth and recreational amenities. “I’ve moved a lot during my time in the military,” he said. “I knew the importance of finding a place where we could not only live but feel like we belong.”

Initially, Bloomington made the shortlist but Noblesville quickly pulled ahead. Its location within easy reach of Chicago, where the couple has family roots was a plus. Similarly, the city’s growth initiatives, including its robust relocation incentive package for remote workers through the MakeMyMove platform, valued at $15,000, were also notable. The offer included a $5,000 relocation grant, a $500 health and wellness stipend, memberships to coworking spaces and local museums, VIP concert tickets, golf passes and even a mover meetup with the mayor.

“When we came to visit, it just felt right,” Zachary said. “It was quieter, friendlier and we could picture our kids growing up here.”

Addressing Concerns About Inclusivity

Even with the positives, Zachary admits he had one lingering concern, “As an African American family, I wanted to be sure that we’d feel welcomed and included here,” he said. “I didn’t want my family to move somewhere and feel out of place.”

Those concerns eased quickly once they began connecting with neighbors and community leaders. “People went out of their way to make us feel a part of things,” Zachary said. “It wasn’t just polite, it was genuine. That made all the difference.”

A Home That Fits the Lifestyle

The Henrys toured multiple properties before finding their match, a rambler also known as a ranch-style home with a basement in a newer neighborhood. “We wanted something that worked for us now and in the future,” Zachary explained. “Single-level living was important with a little one and thinking about our knees down the line.”

The backyard quickly became a favorite gathering spot, with its deck, fire pit and unobstructed view of the preserve. “It’s the opposite of what we had before,” LeeTosha said. “In Baltimore City, it was constant noise. Here, we can sit outside and just hear the crickets.”

Building Community in Noblesville

Noblesville offered more than a slower pace; it provided connection. “It’s a slower lifestyle but it’s not boring,” Zachary said. “There’s always something to do and you don’t feel rushed.”

The Henrys connected early with local leaders, including Noblesville Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Bob DuBois. “Bob was so supportive,” LeeTosha said. “Noblesville has this entrepreneurial energy and they really value people who want to contribute.”

Find out why Noblesville was named one of America's Most Welcoming Places in 2024.

While they didn’t use every perk in the relocation package, Zachary sees its potential. “If they offered targeted incentives for veterans or small business owners, I think it would make an already great program even stronger,” he noted.

New Ventures and Big Dreams

Entrepreneurship has become a defining part of their Indiana story. LeeTosha launched A Butter Me, a spa care line including body butters and scrubs designed for busy moms and women prioritizing self-care. “I wanted to create something that helps women slow down, even for just a few minutes a day,” she said.

Meanwhile, Zachary is working on an AI-powered platform to help veterans transition into civilian life. “It’s personal for us,” he said. “We’ve seen how hard it can be to find the right place after service, and we want to make that process easier.”

A Place for Children to Grow

For their children, Noblesville has been a place to simply be themselves - running free in the background yard, riding their bicycles, playing with neighbors and exploring local favorites like Conner Prairie and the Indianapolis Zoo. “They wave to everyone,” Zachary said with a smile. “That kind of friendliness is contagious.”

LeeTosha agrees. “The slower pace lets them hold onto their innocence longer,” she said. “In a bigger city, you just don’t get that same sense of safety and community.”

Looking Ahead

The Henrys are committed to deepening their ties to Noblesville. Zachary envisions hosting a conference to help veterans find communities where they can thrive, blending their professional expertise with a shared passion for service.

“For us, moving here wasn’t just about finding a new house,” Zachary said. “It was about finding a place where we could grow as a family.”

LeeTosha added, “We’ve planted our roots here and we plan to keep growing.”