Beyond the Resume Podcast: Webinar Series (Affordable Housing Services)

The Impact Real Estate Podcast is now Beyond the Resume! In this episode we chat with Pat Schwartz (Better Tomorrows), Susan Neufeld (BRIDGE Housing Corporation), Andrea Ponsor (Stewards of Affordable Housing for the Future) and Yasmin Hurston Cornelius (L+M Development Partners LLC) about the critical role of social services in affordable housing. The panel alo explores how these services have evolved, the impact of COVID-19, and the financial models that support them. The discussion touches on the importance of resident engagement, the challenges of funding, and the benefits of integrating services into for-profit housing models. They also chat about how the innovations in housing solutions and the necessity of building trust within communities.

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3I3nkG9

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/35ZJGLT

Web: https://www.jacksonlucas.com/podcast/webinar-affordable-housing-services

Chapters

00:15 Introduction of Panelists and Their Backgrounds

07:01 Overview of Affordable Housing Services

07:56 Evolution of Social Services in Housing

13:14 Funding Challenges and Stakeholder Engagement

19:52 Policy and Financing Partners in Affordable Housing

20:37 Navigating Financial Pressures in Community Services

23:10 Measuring Impact: The Challenge of Metrics

25:38 Building Trust and Community Engagement

29:47 The Role of Service Coordination in Housing

38:45 COVID-19: Unveiling Mental Health Challenges

48:11 The Importance of Services in Affordable Housing

53:59 Innovations in Housing Solutions and Technology

Takeaways

  • Social services have evolved from being seen as a box to check to an integral part of housing stability.

  • The pandemic highlighted the fragility of mental health among residents and service providers alike.

  • Fewer evictions and lease violations lead to significant cost savings for property owners.

  • Building community is essential for effective service delivery in affordable housing.

  • Funding for social services often comes from operating budgets, not just grants.

  • Resident engagement is crucial for understanding and meeting community needs.

  • The housing first model is becoming a standard approach in affordable housing.

  • Innovative solutions like tiny homes and technology can enhance housing services.

  • Trust between residents and service providers is vital for successful outcomes.

  • Collaboration with local organizations can improve service delivery and community impact.

Julio LaraKeywords affordable housing, social services, housing stability, COVID-19 impact, funding models, resident engagement, community development, nonprofit housing, for-profit housing, housing innovations