Habitat for Humanity International and NeighborWorks America announce a new partnership that will help revitalize communities and advance the cause of healthy, sustainable and affordable housing.
As part of the partnership, Habitat for Humanity International and Habitat affiliates will have increased access to NeighborWorks America’s training courses and materials. NeighborWorks’ training will strengthen Habitat’s ability to expand the range of housing and revitalization services offered to low-income households and communities.
Habitat for Humanity International and NeighborWorks America also will work together to access funds from the USDA Rural Development 502 Direct Loan Program. The loan program enables eligible low- and moderate-income rural residents to acquire modestly priced housing, and can be used toward the purchase and repair of existing houses.
“We are delighted to join with NeighborWorks America to create community development opportunities across the U.S.,” said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. “Together we can help specific neighborhoods address their challenges, and we can help residents revitalize neglected communities that can once again become thriving and inviting places in which to live.”
“The national partnership between NeighborWorks America and Habitat for Humanity will advance both organizations’ efforts to create affordable housing and strengthen communities across the country,” said Ken Wade, CEO of NeighborWorks America. “We look forward to working more closely with Habitat for Humanity to create communities that are safe and healthy places all are proud to call home.”
In addition, Habitat for Humanity International will utilize NeighborWorks America’s Success Measures evaluation system to assess the outcomes of its neighborhood revitalization activities. Success Measures helps community-based organizations evaluate the impact of their work and use data for program design, improved management, planning and advocacy.
“It is crucial that we are able to assess the impact that Habitat for Humanity is making in communities where we are seeking to build networks to address specific neighborhood concerns,” said Reckford. “The Success Measures evaluation system will be a tremendous help in tracking the long-term benefits that result from our neighborhood revitalization efforts.”
