NeighborWorks has huge impact on area

Published in the Norfolk Daily News on 6/10/2009.  Article written by Teresa Lostroh

The Nebraska Department of Economic Development is challenging Nebraskans--including those in Norfolk and surrounding areas--to create better communities for "our children and grandchildren."

How will that be accomplished?

More--and better--housing opportunities, Richard Baier, the department's director, told the crowd of more than 100 people at the inaugural annual luncheon for NeighborWorks Northeast Nebraska.

The group is helping lead the local effort for affordable housing development and education.

NeighborWorks, during its 15-year stint in Norfolk and two years in Columbus, has developed and sold 370 homes and educated 1,471 families on preparing for home ownership, budgeting, obtaining a mortgage loan, closing a sale and more.

More than 900 individuals are living in homes--now valued at more that $27.8 million--developed by NeighborWorks, according to the organization.

"They make what seems impossible, possible," said state Sen. Mike Flood of Norfolk, who also spoke at the event.  "When you own a home, you are in the fabric of Norfolk" and more in tune with the community, he said.  It doesn't take much to notice NeighborWorks' impact he said.  Old, dilapidated eyesores have been rehabbed or torn down, he said, making way for more attractive homes.

"Just drive down First Street," Flood urged those attending the luncheon at the Lifelong Learning Center on the Northeast Community College campus.  "You're going to see some homes that look a lot better because of NeighborWorks."

Baier and Flood agreed the struggling economy has and will continue to pose a challenge for existing and potential homebuyers.

But creating affordable housing--as NeighborWorks has--is the key to economic growth and happiness for Nebraska, they said.

If young graduates are to stay rooted in the state, they need affordable housing that meets their demographic-specific demands, Baier said.

According to the organization, its projects have already had a $62.2 million economic impact for the area.

Also during the luncheon NeighborWorks gave three awards recognizing continued support of and partnership with the group.

Baier was given the Partnership Award for being a financial supporter for 15 years. 

The Northeast Nebraska Economic Development District, which is based in Norfolk, received the Housing Partnership Award because the district and NeighborWorks used to share office space and staff.

Danielle Hil, executive director of the Nebraska Housing Developers Association, earned the Housing Advocate Award for her continued support.   

Info:

Article published on Jun 15, 2009