Representation Matters: Creating a Lasting Impact through Real Estate

In honor of Black History Month, we asked current HDTI participants to share what it means for them to work in the real estate and affordable housing industry and their goals after graduation.

2.14.2023 — LISC StoriesAffordable Housing

LISC’s Housing Development Training Institute (HDTI) trains staff at California nonprofit community development organizations to increase their capacity to combat the affordable housing crisis. HDTI participants come from different backgrounds and circumstances, bringing their professional and lived experiences. They identify a housing development project to work on throughout the program, gain a network of peers and mentors, and understand the entire affordable housing development process. Since its founding 35 years ago, over 500 graduates have completed the comprehensive yearlong program.

Theresa Nantor, Director of Rental Housing Development at the Community Housing Improvement Program (CHIP)

“As a Black person working in affordable housing, a predominantly white field, it means a lot to know that I can personally have a hand in helping to improve the quality of life for people of color (POC). This work is mission-driven, life-changing, and a fulfilling career that needs more representation of Black and other POC. African Americans are the largest segment of our population who are unhoused, disenfranchised, and live in underserved communities.

HDTI has given me a solid foundation to grow in real estate development. My goal is to strengthen CHIP’s new and existing relationships to build new collaborations to increase its impact to develop more affordable housing in its service area, especially in regions devastated by wildfires. A personal and close-to-home goal is to challenge systemic barriers to support opportunities for minority communities.”

Sonya Andrews, E.d.D, Assistant Project Manager at Innovative Housing Opportunities

"I have experienced homelessness and the challenges faced by people in that plight. During my homeless experience, I was not aware of the affordable housing projects and opportunities. I’m now privileged to work and contribute to the affordable housing industry. Today, both my daughter – who was in high school when we were homeless – and I are homeowners. Because of my journey, the programs with pathways to home ownership through shared equity housing in California are very intriguing.

The greatest benefit to the real estate and affordable housing industry is having a diverse workforce that brings unique experiences that can be applied to address the challenges in the industry. My goal is to ensure stable housing for all, enrich our society and communities with housed citizens, and contribute solutions to the challenges in the affordable housing industry."

Sean Alred, Assistant Project Manager at Abbey Road, Inc.

"As a person of color, more people of color would be helpful in this industry to provide guidance from a cultural standpoint. I’m proud to be able to bring my firsthand knowledge about the client’s needs to the development side of housing. Representation is important for the next generation of affordable housing developers.

With the skills I gained through HDTI, my goal is to become a project manager fully capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously, allowing my organization to take on more projects."

HDTI is made possible through the generosity of Merritt Community Capital Corporation through their Commitment to California initiative.

Applications for the 2023 cohort will be open between February 17 and March 9. Learn more about HDTI here.