 HOST Development is a unique program the EnviroCitizen.org came across that provides potential homebuyers with assistance in buying a home. They focus primarily on potential homebuyers that are low to moderate income families and individuals, as well as families and individuals with credit problems or other special circumstances. Located in Portland, Oregon, HOST is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that creates home ownership opportunities which are affordable and attainable.
Recipients of HOST Development assistance are required to volunteer fifty hours each year for the first five years of their homeownership. With those fifty hours, homeowners are encouraged to participate in their Close to Home project, which promotes volunteering in community schools. HOST Development has been the recipient of numerous awards, including the 2005 Homebuilders Association Building Excellence Award, the 2006 Home Depot Foundation Award of Excellence for Affordable Housing Built Responsibly and the 2006 Bank of America Neighborhood Excellence Initiative's Neighborhood Builder Award.
All of the HOST Development homes built after 2000 are Earth Advantage Certified for energy efficiency and air quality. Earth Advantage is a sustainability program that works with builders and developers to create the most sustainable, eco-friendly homes and make them accessible in the mainstream housing market. HOST Development is run by John Miller and Brianna Conrow, two incredible individuals that are changing the lives of hundreds of people. Miller, the Executive Director of HOST Development, is a Portland native who has more than two decades of management experience. Conrow, the Project Manager, has been with HOST Development for more than fifteen years.
HOST Development is a unique idea. They believe that homeownership is a key factor in a successful, fulfilling life. They also value sustainability and the advantages that things like energy-efficiency offer to homeowners. They are a passionate group of individuals who genuinely want to do great things in the world. The great thing about HOST Development is that they help people to become homeowners in a multitude of ways. They consult with individuals and families, offer preferred lenders and even provide financial assistance to enable people to become homeowners. HOST Development is a great example of how a unique idea can benefit both people and the environment.
In today's economy where the real estate market is shaky and lenders are becoming more critical of those trying to obtain financing, organizations like HOST Development are creating hope—hope for independence through homeownership and hope for the environment. EnviroCitizen.org is impressed with this organization and hopes that they, and other organizations like them, continue to do exactly what they're doing.
|
