Sermon, a native of American Fork, Utah, and a long-time Las Vegas resident, has always been vocal about his desire to give back to the community that helped launch Imagine Dragons’ meteoric rise. Inspired by his bandmate Dan Reynolds’ philanthropic efforts with organizations like Encircle, Sermon decided to take action to address the growing issue of youth homelessness in Nevada. “Las Vegas has given me so much, and I’ve seen firsthand how tough it can be for young people who don’t have a stable place to call home,” Sermon said in a recent interview. “This shelter is about creating a space where they can feel safe, supported, and empowered to rebuild their lives.”
The $8.6 million investment will transform a spacious property in Las Vegas into a modern facility equipped with private rooms, communal spaces, counseling offices, and educational resources. The shelter, tentatively named “Harmony Haven,” will cater specifically to youth aged 16–24, a demographic that faces unique challenges in accessing stable housing. The project is being developed in partnership with local nonprofits and community leaders to ensure it meets the specific needs of the population it serves.
A Collaborative Effort
Sermon’s vision for the shelter emphasizes collaboration and sustainability. The facility will feature job training programs, mental health services, and mentorship opportunities to help residents transition out of homelessness. “This isn’t just about providing a roof; it’s about giving these kids the tools to thrive,” Sermon explained. The shelter will also incorporate eco-friendly designs, such as solar panels and energy-efficient systems, reflecting Sermon’s commitment to environmental consciousness.
Local officials have praised Sermon’s generosity. Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman called the project “a game-changer for our city’s most vulnerable youth.” She added, “Wayne’s investment shows what’s possible when compassion and resources come together. This shelter will change lives for generations.”
A Personal Connection
For Sermon, the project is deeply personal. Having grown up in a tight-knit family in Utah, he credits his parents and community for instilling values of empathy and service. His wife, Alexandra, has been a key partner in the project, helping to shape the shelter’s family-oriented atmosphere. “We want this to feel like a home, not just a facility,” Alexandra said. “Every detail, from the design to the programs, is about making these young people feel valued.”
The couple’s three children—River, Wolfgang, and Sunnie—have also been involved, with Alexandra noting that the family sees this as a way to teach their kids the importance of giving back. “It’s a legacy we want to leave, not just for our family but for the community,” she added.
Building on a Legacy of Giving
Sermon’s initiative follows in the footsteps of his bandmate Dan Reynolds, who donated his $1 million childhood home to Encircle in 2021 to support LGBTQ+ youth in Nevada. While Sermon has kept a lower profile than Reynolds in his philanthropy, those close to him describe him as a quiet but determined force for good. “Wayne’s the kind of guy who doesn’t seek the spotlight but gets things done,” said Ben McKee, Imagine Dragons’ bassist. “This shelter is going to make a huge impact.”
The shelter is expected to open its doors in late 2026, with capacity for up to 50 residents at a time. Community members and fans of Imagine Dragons have already begun rallying behind the project, with some launching fundraising campaigns to support operational costs. Sermon, known for his soulful guitar riffs in hits like “Radioactive” and “Believer,” hopes the shelter will inspire others to take action. “If we can help even one kid find their way, it’s worth it,” he said. “But we
