About Kelbert
Kelbert Fagan is the Program Manager for CONVERGENCE Memphis, a subsidiary of United Housing, Inc. He leads program management including budgeting, fundraising, and volunteer recruitment. Before joining CONVERGENCE Memphis, Kelbert served as Chief Programs Officer at the Neighborhood Christian Center and held leadership roles at the Boy Scouts of America. He is also a licensed real estate agent and independent insurance agent.
What motivated CONVERGENCE’s partnership with United Housing?
“When CONVERGENCE approached United Housing to be a host, we saw it as an opportunity to create a connection with the national resources provided by CONVERGENCE to create affordable housing for all. CONVERGENCE has evolved into the civic innovation arm of United Housing and together we focus on innovative solutions to increase homeownership for the underserved and minorities in Memphis.”
Key initiatives
Kelbert has led the CONVERGENCE Memphis Land Expo, which has convened 200+ participants, generated 22 emerging developer applications, and supported 1–5 new home builds. He has also coordinated Home Expos in majority-Black and minority areas, organized a continuing education course attended by 180+ real estate and lending professionals, and hosted an Affordable Housing Meetup at the American Enterprise Institute’s Solution Summit.
How do you measure success?
“We measure success by increasing the number of minorities and underserved community members who get one-on-one credit counseling, homebuying education, and by providing predevelopment funds for affordable homes to be built in majority-minority areas.”
“It’s important to have very strong volunteer involvement and a dedicated staff person to oversee the work.”
— Kelbert Fagan