ChangeMakers with Katie Goar

In this episode of ChangeMakers, Katies speaks with Frank Woodruff, Executive Director of the Community Opportunity Alliance, who shares his journey from a small Wisconsin tourist town to becoming a champion for community-based development. Frank discusses the "80-20 dilemma" in community development funding, where 80% of resources go to only 20% of organizations, and highlights the rising insurance costs threatening affordable housing projects. He explores the impact of Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) on neighborhood revitalization, offering examples from Detroit's urban renewal to Youngstown's neighborhood restoration. Frank provides insights into the challenges and opportunities in federal funding for community development, emphasizing the need for program evolution to meet changing community needs. The episode showcases the transformative power of community development organizations and the pressing issues they face in shaping America's communities. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the vital role local initiatives play in community development and the complexities of funding and implementing these crucial projects.

In this encore presentation of Changemakers, Katie sits down with Mark Thiele, CEO of NARO, the largest and oldest industry organization representing over 3 million affordable housing units and 20,000 housing agencies. Mark looks back on his 23-year career, which spans roles at the Chicago and Houston Housing Authorities, as well as disaster recovery efforts following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. He discusses the major challenges facing the affordable housing sector, including underfunding and regulatory hurdles, and how NARO is advocating for meaningful improvements. Mark also emphasizes the critical role of mentorship and professional development in fostering a strong community of housing professionals. Join us for this special encore episode, highlighting the leadership and commitment that fuel NARO’s mission to advance affordable housing.

In an encore presentation of Changemakers, Katie sits down with George Guy, CEO and Executive Director of the Fort Wayne Housing Authority, who has spent over 25 years improving the lives of underserved communities. George shares his inspiring journey from growing up in public housing to becoming a national leader in affordable housing solutions. He reflects on how his mother’s advocacy work shaped his mission to serve, leading him to oversee 800 units of affordable housing and manage over 3,000 vouchers. Katie and George discuss the importance of innovation, collaboration, and keeping humanity at the heart of housing. They also dive into the challenges and opportunities in affordable housing today, highlighting the award-winning work being done in Fort Wayne.

In part two of this ChangeMakers conversation, Katie continues her engaging discussion with Shannon H. Longino, exploring Shannon's impactful roles and achievements beyond her work in affordable housing. Shannon shares the immense pride she felt being honored at the Atlanta Hawks' She Leads Women's Empowerment Summit, where she inspired a room full of aspiring female leaders. She reflects on the importance of programs like She Leads that provide mentorship and support for women navigating corporate America. Shannon also discusses her involvement with the East Lake Women's Alliance, a powerful networking and volunteer group dedicated to uplifting the East Lake community. Throughout the conversation, Shannon imparts invaluable wisdom on the power of self-confidence, embracing one's unique story, and taking risks on oneself. She emphasizes the need for women to trust their own journeys, rather than comparing themselves to others. Shannon's infectious positive energy and determination shine through as she urges listeners to view themselves as "a big deal" every single day. This episode is a celebration of Shannon's multifaceted leadership and her ongoing mission to empower women and communities. Her inspirational words offer a masterclass in self-empowerment, reminding us all to bet on ourselves and trust the unique path that has led us to where we are today.

In this episode of ChangeMakers, Katie sits down with Shannon H. Longino, a dedicated advocate for affordable housing and community revitalization. Shannon shares her personal story of growing up in the East Lake public housing community in Atlanta, and how her grandmother Eva Davis' tireless efforts to transform the struggling neighborhood inspired Shannon's own passion for this work. Shannon discusses how she has carried on her grandmother's legacy, working to provide underserved communities with not just affordable housing, but the critical resources and opportunities they need to thrive. As Senior Vice President at Truist Community Capital, Shannon has been a driving force behind impactful initiatives that are uplifting neighborhoods and changing lives. This conversation offers a powerful firsthand account of the challenges and triumphs of affordable housing advocacy, as well as Shannon's insights on dismantling harmful stigmas and ensuring all families have access to the support they need. It's an inspiring look at how one person's determination can spark generational change.

In this continuation of Katie's conversation with Ailrick Young, Executive Director of the Laurel Housing Authority, they delve deeper into the future of affordable housing in Laurel, Mississippi. Ailrick shares details about an ambitious 30-acre development project, highlighting the importance of community involvement and strategic planning. He discusses his experience testifying before the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and emphasizes the significance of national advocacy in affordable housing. Ailrick also reflects on his personal connection to public housing through his grandmother's experience and how it shapes his approach to his work. The conversation touches on the challenges and rewards of helping residents achieve homeownership and the impact of providing opportunities. Finally, Ailrick shares insights from his military service, including receiving the Bronze Star Medal, and how those experiences inform his leadership in the housing authority. This episode offers a compelling look at the intersection of personal experience, public service, and community development in the affordable housing sector.

In this episode of ChangeMakers, Katie welcomes Ailrick Young, Executive Director of the Laurel Housing Authority in Mississippi. Ailrick shares his unique background, including his time in the Army National Guard and how it shaped his leadership skills. They discuss the charming town of Laurel, made famous by HGTV's 'Home Town', and explore how the show has impacted the community. Ailrick details the Housing Authority's efforts to provide affordable housing amidst Laurel's revitalization, highlighting the importance of community partnerships. He also recounts his experience appearing on 'Home Town' to renovate a historic public housing unit into a visitor center, emphasizing how the project helped change perceptions about public housing. This episode offers valuable insights into affordable housing challenges, community development, and the power of collaboration in small-town America.

In this continuation of ChangeMakers with Katie Goar, Dr. Vincent Atchity, President & CEO of Mental Health Colorado, delves deeper into the complex relationship between mental health, housing, and criminal justice. Dr. Atchity discusses the "Care Not Cuffs" initiative, emphasizing the need for a shift from over-criminalization to a more supportive, health-focused approach. He explores the concept of "Housing First" and its importance in addressing homelessness, while also touching on the challenges faced by various demographics, including families, youth, and the elderly. The conversation covers recent legal decisions affecting homeless encampments, potential changes in housing access policies, and the need for a more comprehensive national housing strategy. Dr. Atchity concludes by sharing success stories that demonstrate the positive impact of combining proper mental health support with housing stability, highlighting the potential for reducing reliance on crisis interventions and improving overall community well-being.

In this episode of ChangeMakers, Katie explores the complex intersection of mental health, housing instability, and substance use with Dr. Vincent Atchity, President & CEO of Mental Health Colorado. Dr. Atchity shares insights from his career in mental health advocacy, discussing how stable housing is crucial for mental wellbeing and the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness. The conversation covers the current state of mental health care in Colorado and highlights the SAFER initiative in Arapahoe County, which provides support for individuals with mental health needs, substance use issues, and justice system involvement. Dr. Atchity also addresses the discriminatory history and cultural attitudes surrounding substance use, challenging listeners to reconsider common assumptions. He emphasizes the need for a more nuanced understanding of mental health and substance use in society, highlighting how these issues are intertwined with poverty, race, and class. This thought-provoking episode offers valuable insights for anyone interested in public health, social justice, and community wellbeing.

In the second part of this ChangeMakers episode, Katie continues her conversation with Ruth White, now focusing on recent legislative efforts and Ruth's new career developments. Ruth discusses the Campus Housing Affordability Act, which aims to allow former foster youth to use housing vouchers for college dormitories. She explains the potential impact of this legislation on foster youth pursuing higher education and addresses common misconceptions about housing options for these students. Ruth then shares her transition from the National Center for Housing and Child Welfare to her new role as leader of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Wilmington. The conversation concludes with Ruth's insights on upcoming policy initiatives, including the Baseline Rent Optimum Escrow proposal and efforts to restore HUD's Continuum of Care program to address homelessness more effectively.