This month I'd like to introduce you to Kirsten Elliott, our Vice President of Development in our Troy office.
As one of our original employees, Kirsten Elliott has been deeply involved with the growth of services and housing options that we've been able to offer. In the beginning, Kirsten worked to get our Housing Resource Center (
HRC) off the ground. As time went on, we saw the need to begin developing communities with quality housing for those we serve. Her role quickly changed and Kirsten began working on and leading our real estate development team.
Most recently, the development team has been very
busy with our newest and largest community,
Jefferson Oaks, located in Oak Park. This community features the adaptive reuse of the vacant Thomas Jefferson School building, with 20 one- and two-bedroom apartments and community space. The community also includes an additional 40 three- and four-bedroom townhomes. Twenty-one homes will be set aside for supportive housing with project-based rental assistance.
This drone video captures the construction process during the last year.
Since the community will house individuals and families, we want to include amenities that will improve and enhance the lives of the residents. Computer labs, a new playground and green space are just a few of the features that will be included in Jefferson Oaks. Our supporters often ask, "How can I get more involved with Community Housing Network's mission?" or "What else can I do?"
We are pleased to be able to offer new support opportunities, such as providing Welcome Home Baskets for our new residents, or monetary donations that will directly enhance the lives of our Jefferson Oaks residents.
As you plan your giving for 2018, we'd like you to consider helping with the Jefferson Oaks, Welcome to the Neighborhood initiative
.
Please visit
here
for more information on the initiative and to help support Jefferson Oaks!
Let's turn to Kirsten now and give her a chance to
answer a few questions.
How did you become involved in the development side of CHN?
While working in our HRC and taking calls from those looking for housing, I saw, on a daily basis, the need for quality, affordable housing. I was fortunate to work for an agency that allowed me to seek out solutions and
pursue
real estate development projects to help house those we serve.
Jefferson Oaks is our first adaptive reuse project. What has been the most interesting aspect of getting it off the ground?
The original school building was built in two phases, in the 1920's and 1950's. It was interesting to see how buildings were constructed during those time periods and figure out what we needed to do to make the building relevant and work for today. By retrofitting an existing structure, we were able to create unique living and community spaces that provide great housing options.
What are your hopes for the fundraising efforts needed for Jefferson Oaks?
Our main focus is welcoming our neighbors home, and helping them feel part of their new community. Initially, we'd like to raise enough funds to provide a Welcome Home Basket for each of our 60 homes, and install an amazing playground that includes grills and park benches.
Anything else you'd like to add about the future needs of Jefferson Oaks?
Going forward, we hope to raise funds that will help us provide programming for all the families, children and individuals at Jefferson Oaks. I'd love to be able to offer after-school tutoring and other opportunities that will engage residents with their surrounding community.
Any parting words of wisdom?
We started pursuing Jefferson Oaks in 2015. Our dream is becoming a reality. We didn't give up, and are looking forward to lease-up and move ins during the summer of 2018.
I am grateful for Kirsten's work, as well as the work of all CHN team members.
Thank you for your ongoing support!
