NeighborWorks Launches Networking Site for Community Development Professionals

NeighborWorks recently launched LeadersforCommunities.org, a new professional networking site for leaders in the community development field to connect with each other and share knowledge, resources, tools and job opportunities.

It is designed to facilitate communication across all types of community development organizations, and among people with diverse backgrounds and skill sets. There is no cost to participate, and members can access and post job listings, participate in discussions, join affinity groups, and share and view resources, links and events recommended by peers.

Join LeadersforCommunities.org today to grow your effectiveness and your career.

New NeighborWorks Web Site Available for Consumers to Locate Foreclosure Counselors

NeighborWorks has created a Web site to make it easier for consumers to find a counselor who can help them with their foreclosure needs and explain the Making Home Affordable modification and refinance options.

The site, FindaForeclosureCounselor.org, enables anyone to search for a NFMC Program-funded counseling agency by state or zip code. Borrowers that are interested in exploring their options and eligibility under the Making Home Affordable Plan can contact a counseling agency for free counseling without being referred by a servicer. If it is determined they may be eligible for the loan modification or refinance program, the counselor will work with the borrower to submit an intake package to the servicer.

NeighborWorks has also gathered information to help housing counselors assist eligible homeowners under the Making Home Affordable plan. See resources.

NeighborWorks America Names Linda Cotton Perry Division Director of Development and Communications

Today NeighborWorks America named Linda Cotton Perry its Division Director of Development and Communications. As director, Cotton Perry has direct management responsibility for resource development in the private sector, and for marketing communications, which includes media relations and NeighborWorks’ web sites. Cotton Perry will work closely with NeighborWorks Chief Executive Officer Kenneth D. Wade, the Board of Directors, and lead management peers to set the strategic vision for development and communications and ensure its successful implementation. Read more.

How to Avoid Foreclosure Rescue Scams

NeighborWorks Americaoffers these quick tips to avoid foreclosure rescue scams.

• Never use any ad, person, or company that approaches you and claims to be able to “stop foreclosure now” for a fee.
  
• Never release your financial information online or over the phone to a company you know nothing about.
  
• Never send your mortgage payment, or any payment, to a company other than your mortgage lender.
  
• Contact your local NeighborWorks organization or other HUD-approved nonprofit housing counseling agency for free foreclosure counseling. To find a local NeighborWorks organization near you that provides foreclosure counseling, visit http://www.nw.org/ or http://www.findaforeclosurecounselor.org/.
  
• If you prefer to speak to a counselor over the phone, call the Homeowner’s HOPE Hotline at 888-995-HOPE for free foreclosure prevention counseling by expert counselors at HUD-approved nonprofit counseling agencies. The hotline is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in English and in Spanish. Counseling is also available in 20 additional languages by request.
  
• Contact your mortgage lender. Contrary to what a foreclosure scammer will tell you, you should contact your lender the minute you have trouble making your monthly payment.

Download Tips.

NeighborWorks America COO Eileen Fitzgerald Helps Neighborhood Housing Services of South Florida Open New Locations in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties

Today NeighborWorks Chief Operating Officer Eileen Fitzgerald will help Neighborhood Housing Services of South Florida, a member of the NeighborWorks network, unveil a new name and expanded service area by opening the first of two new offices in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties that will provide foreclosure prevention services, affordable housing opportunities, and neighborhood revitalization efforts to the South Florida counties. Read more.