LISC Offices in Los Angeles, San Diego, and Bay Area are proudly celebrating 35 years of the Housing Development Training Institute (HDTI). Since 1988, HDTI has trained over 500 graduates representing 100 community development organizations across the state to become the next generation of affordable housing leaders.
Affordable housing development is complex, requiring expertise in several areas. Developed by LISC, HDTI is facilitated by leading industry professionals to increase the skills of the staff of community development corporations and prepare them for success in the field. It has been sustained over the years by several funders, and today, is made possible through the generosity of Merritt Community Capital Corporation.
During the year-long cohort-based program, participants get to conceptualize an affordable housing project all the way through to getting it approved, financed, built, and then operating it. This exercise helps break down the often complicated housing development process. The program doesn't end at graduation. Graduates are welcomed into the HDTI alumni network to stay connected to their mentors and peers.
“California’s housing shortage is at a crisis level, and our goal at LISC is to be part of the solution," said Nicole Williams, Executive Director, LISC Los Angeles. "Through HDTI, we’re building an ecosystem of affordable housing developers who can do the work needed to ensure our state’s most vulnerable communities have access to safe and affordable housing.”
In response to the state's housing affordability problem, California is deploying unprecedented resources to build and preserve housing. At the same time, the industry needs to shore up the staff capable of managing these properties, which is why programs like HDTI are essential. “The longevity of HDTI speaks to the quality and effectiveness of the program, as well as the increasing demand for individuals capable of building and preserving affordable housing and managing the development process,” said Cindy Wu, Executive Director, LISC Bay Area.
LISC offices are committed to growing and expanding HDTI, with a focus on increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the program. “Affordable housing serves diverse communities with different needs," explained Ricardo Flores, Executive Director, LISC San Diego. "What makes HDTI a strong program are the participants who come from different backgrounds and circumstances. Some have experienced housing insecurity and homelessness themselves, and they bring their lived experiences to the cohort.”