Government Officials Honored for Achievements in Affordable Housing and Community Development

The 2009 NeighborWorks Government Service Award recipients have just been announced. This is an honor that recognizes elected or appointed officials at the local, state, and federal levels that have made significant contributions to improving the lives of the people in their communities through support for affordable housing and community development.

“The commitment demonstrated by these leaders at the federal, state and local government levels is ever more important given today’s challenges in the housing market and the economic crisis,” said Ken Wade, CEO of NeighborWorks America. “The 2009 honorees recognize the far-reaching impact of community development efforts. From supporting foreclosure intervention efforts and educating families about predatory foreclosure rescue scams, to ensuring residents have access to quality affordable housing, and revitalizing areas affected by blight, the 2009 honorees have made the communities they represent better places to live. We are proud to honor them for their invaluable service.”

Meet the 2009 Government Service Award winners.

NeighborWorks Honors Resident Leader Volunteers

Each year NeighborWorks America recognizes eight community leaders from around the country for their outstanding contributions to their communities. This year’s honorees, who have just been announced, exemplify the commitment to community service and to helping others that is championed by NeighborWorks America and its national network.

“This year’s honorees have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to improving the communities in which they live,” said Ken Wade, CEO of NeighborWorks America. “The important contributions of these volunteers have helped to transform and enrich their neighborhoods and towns, creating lasting benefits for countless residents. We are proud to honor them for their generous service to others.”

Learn more about the Dorothy Richardson Award for Resident Leadership and meet this year's honorees.

White House Expands Foreclosure Fix

The Obama administration said on April 28 that it is expanding its foreclosure prevention program to cover second mortgages and to direct more troubled borrowers to the Hope for Homeowners program. Announced in mid-February, the president's $75 billion program calls for adjusting eligible borrowers' loans so monthly payments are no more than 31 percent of pre-tax income. The plan is expected to help up to 9 million avoid foreclosure. More at CNNMoney.com

NeighborWorks America to Distribute $81 Million in Grants to NeighborWorks Network in 2009

At a time when communities need resources most, thousands across the nation will receive a much-needed affordable housing and community development boost as NeighborWorks America distributes more than $81 million in flexible grants to its national network of more than 230 local nonprofit NeighborWorks organizations. The $81 million that will be distributed in 2009 is an increase from the previous year, and reflects the increased need for community development since the financial crisis began to make headlines in 2008. Read the announcement.

NeighborWorks Tackles Growing Foreclosure Crisis in Louisiana

NeighborWorks America’s Southern District office partnered with the Louisiana Foreclosure Prevention and Mitigation Task Force in March to launch a community stabilization road show. These comprehensive meetings were designed to help stabilize communities by ensuring resources are available to homeowners who are behind on their mortgages and in danger of losing their homes. The task force included staff from FDIC, Louisiana Housing Finance Agency, Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and Fannie Mae. Between March 17-20, the task force engaged more than 110 community leaders in target cities. Read more about this effort.