Volume 1 | January 2020
Workforce Housing Newsletter
Greetings!

Welcome to our first quarterly newsletter to highlight updates, news, and stories about housing and financial readiness resources for Carbon County. We've got many exciting things to share this quarter, and look forward to updating the community continuously with future newsletters!

If you would like to continue receiving these quarterly newsletters, CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP, or contact Robin Adams at 406-426-1983 or robin@rlacf.org to learn more.
Owner-Built Workforce Housing Program
Four homes are under construction up on the Spires! Three of these homes are now complete with windows, doors, and roofs - which means they were dried-in right in time for winter. Electrical lines and plumbing are currently being installed and our Owner/Builder partners are ready to begin working on the fun part – when the interior space of the home takes shape.
Learning the importance of financial health is Kristen's key takeaway from this program, on top of getting to plant her family's feet in Red Lodge with the help of her neighbors.

Hear Kristen's story by clicking the thumbnail above, or go to RLACF's YouTube page to view all the owner/builder stories.
More good news? We're accepting applications for the next cycle.
Workforce Housing Solar Fund
The RLACF Workforce Housing Committee is raising funds to install three solar systems on the homes built by (and for) families in the Owner-Built Workforce Housing program. With the community land trust model locking in the affordability of the homes for generations, solar panels will help reduce the energy burdens of everyone living under these roofs even if the current owners decide to move.

Thanks to an incredible wave of community support, we've raised $20,850 for this project! This means we're now just $12,150 away from installing solar when the homes are move-in ready this summer.
Career Opportunity
Helena Area Habitat for Humanity is a crucial partner of RLACF to implement the construction phase of the Owner-Built Housing program. They're looking for a full time Construction Supervisor for the Red Lodge site. This position requires construction and trade skills as well as interpersonal and communication skills.
Workforce Housing "Office Hours"

Ready to stop renting, or know someone who may be ready? Have questions about our Owner-Built Workforce Housing program? Do you employ staff that need housing? Want to learn about the housing needs in our area and share your ideas for solutions? 

Pop into the RLACF Workforce Housing Coordinator’s virtual “office” EVERY THURSDAY sometime between noon - 1pm in January during this informal Q&A session. Find the zoom link at www.rlacf.org/housing/
Upcoming Financial Skill Building Courses
Want to take control of your money? Homeword, a Montana 501(c)(3) nonprofit, offers free, virtual Financial Fitness classes for anyone in the state. These can help you learn to:
  • Navigate your complicated financial world
  • Create a budget that works for you
  • Quickly adapt to income or expense changes
  • Build solid financial judgement
  • Address credit and debt challenges
  • Gain financial independence by creating a savings and investment plan
Classes are offered once a month, with this month's running January 12 - 14, 5:30pm - 8:30pm.
Want to get involved?

The RLACF Workforce Housing Steering Committee is accepting new members. Meetings are held the fourth Thursday of the month at 4pm. Contact Robin Adams at (406) 426-1983 or robin@rlacf.org to learn more.
Contact:

Robin Adams - Workforce Housing Coordinator
Red Lodge Area Community Foundation
Cell: (406) 426-1983
robin@rlacf.org