What is your organization’s role in advancing affordable housing or financial inclusion in your community, and how has your work connected with CONVERGENCE?
Our members are constantly advocating for the buyer — with firsthand knowledge about each and every neighborhood, and the necessary financing in purchasing a home. GPAR advocates for affordable housing and sound policy that ensures fair housing for all. Through Convergence, we have partnered around appraisal bias and networking.
How has CONVERGENCE supported your efforts or strengthened local partnerships? What unique value has it brought to your work?
Convergence has been a great connector or community grant funding ideas and partnerships. It has strengthened my network of housing providers and educational opportunities.
Have you implemented or benefited from any programs, pilots, or initiatives (e.g., credit-building, down payment assistance, career fairs) that have contributed to the goals of CONVERGENCE? What lessons or successes could inform other communities?
Shared resources with our members.
Have you hosted or participated in events (e.g., workshops, homebuyer education, financial literacy programs, career fairs) that have advanced CONVERGENCE’s mission? What lessons or successes could you share?
GPAR has attended several workshops and webinars. Value of learning what to continue, stop, and start and share ideas with other cities.
What additional support, content, or collaboration opportunities would you like to see from the CONVERGENCE Knowledge Community? Would you be open to contributing or presenting in future sessions?
Coaching/mentoring in how they’d like each organization to move the organization/mission forward.
What has surprised you most about being part of CONVERGENCE?
The creativity, energy, and array of industries committed to helping people find safe, healthy homes and build a pathway to home ownership.