A Few Words About Us and Our Mission
Welcome
Welcome to Lakeway Copperleaf Homestead — an intimate, thoughtfully designed small assisted living facility in west Austin. Here, exceptional care meets genuine connection, with every detail crafted to nourish the body, mind, and spirit.
Our Mission
Our mission began with family. After our beloved mother endured preventable suffering in a large facility, we were inspired to create a small home where elders are truly seen, valued, and lovingly cared for. At Lakeway Copperleaf Homestead -- the only small residential Assisted Living Facility in Lakeway, TX -- we are committed to treating every resident the way we would want our own parents to be treated—with dignity, attentiveness, and heartfelt respect.
Our Value
We believe in care that goes beyond the clinical—where warmth, kindness, and human connection shape every moment. We value compassion, respect, attentiveness, and the simple belief that elders deserve the very best, every day.
FOUNDERS
Built from Love. Guided by Heart.
LCSW, Certified Personal Trainer
Dennard Mcinnis
Dennard McInnis is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Personal Trainer with over 20 years of experience. After earning his Master’s in Social Work from UT Austin in 2010, he worked in crisis centers, hospitals, and private practice. Dennard is also the founder and owner of McInnis Mental Health Solutions, bringing a trauma-informed and compassionate approach to emotional wellness and daily life at Copperleaf.
At Lakeway Copperleaf Homestead-a small Assisted Living Facility in west Austin, Dennard leads emotional wellness check-ins, therapeutic circles, and engaging activities such as creative workshops and small group discussions. In addition, he guides daily movement sessions tailored to all abilities, including tai chi, chair yoga, and light strength training.
Dennard’s approach is rooted in respect and joy. He believes every elder deserves not just care, but meaningful connection and opportunities to thrive.
CNA, CMA, CULINARY DIRECTOR
Yang Wang
Yang Wang is a Certified Nursing Assistant, Certified Medication Aide, and Culinary Director with a Master of Science degree from UT Austin. She brings a lifelong passion for caregiving, cooking, and hospitality. Originally from southern China, Yang began her culinary journey in her mother’s kitchen and later trained at the Michelin three-star restaurant Xin Rong Ji.
Since moving to the United States in 2007, she has spent over a decade running a popular Austin cooking program . In addition, at Lakeway Copperleaf Homestead--a family-style assisted living home in Austin, Yang curates meals that are both nourishing and comforting. She blends flavors with care, ensuring every dish brings joy, connection, and a sense of home.
For Yang, food is more than sustenance—it is a way to honor others and create meaningful daily moments.
Mascot, Chief Cheer Officer
Mini Mcinnis
Mini is a 6-year-old Chiweenie with a heart as big as her ears. She was rescued and adopted by Dennard McInnis and Yang Wang in spring 2021. In addition, she has been preparing to bring joy to the residents at Lakeway Copperleaf Homestead-an assisted living home near Lake Travis.
Mini especially loves curling up on residents’ laps, offering quiet companionship and comfort. Moreover, she is remarkably intuitive. She often senses when someone needs extra care and gently nudges them with a kiss on the leg or a wag of her tail.
Of course, Mini also loves treats and never turns down a snack from a friendly hand. Therefore, she brings warmth, smiles, and daily cheer to everyone around her.
