By: Karen G. Hatcher, CPM®
“Homeownership has transformed my life, and I believe it can do the same for you. As a champion of affordable housing, I will work to make homeownership a reality for more people.”
As a Realtor and developer, I am inspired by the impact of homeownership and have made it a priority to be a part of the solution to ensure homeownership is accessible for as many people as possible. I keep getting asked, “Where can I find out more information about these housing programs?” So, here you go!
In this series of blog posts this month, I will highlight Metro Atlanta non-profit developers leading the way, creating innovative homeownership opportunities, and even providing support after the sale. Many organizations have programs that can help with down payment assistance, closing costs, homebuyer grants, and more.
My passion began when I purchased and renovated my first home a 100-year-old house – and I experienced firsthand the transformative power that owning a home can have on individuals and communities, putting each person on a path to a Sovereign Life
Through my work in real estate, I help others achieve their dreams of homeownership by advocating for accessible housing options for all. I am thrilled to highlight some of the amazing resources available to homebuyers in Metro Atlanta. I encourage those not local to research the non-profit developers in their area.
Last month, I was able to MC the Atlanta Habitat for Humanity’s Vision. Goals. Action 2023 event. It was inspiring to learn about this program because even though I have volunteered with Habitat building homes for years, I never knew that they also offered education and support beyond homeownership and building small businesses, which are the backbone of thriving communities.
Habitat for Humanity is a well-known organization that has helped millions attain safe, decent, and affordable housing worldwide. In full disclosure, I have enjoyed serving Atlanta Habitat for Humanity as part of my volunteer and philanthropic interests.
Atlanta Habitat for Humanity transforms communities acting as a catalyst for neighborhood revitalization through education, innovative development, partnerships, and long-term relationships with families.
However, its efforts to transform lives do not end with housing alone. The Vision. Goals. Action! (VGA) program is one initiative designed to help eligible Atlanta Habitat homeowners and their dependents realize their dreams through scholarship and grant awards.
The program aims to help deserving students pursue higher education or vocational training programs, enabling them to unlock better opportunities. Recipients of the VGA scholarships are selected based on factors such as financial need, educational aspirations, personal achievements, motivation, and community involvement.
Recipients use their scholarship and grant funds to attend accredited colleges, universities, or vocational schools in Georgia.
The VGA event was like a mini Shark Tank (one of my absolute favorite shows), so when I got the call to MC last month, I jumped at the opportunity. This year, 4 entrepreneur finalists had 5 minutes to present to the team of 3 judges.
Detailed questions from the judges followed their presentations. It was clear that Atlanta Habitat had worked with them to formulate business plans, sell products, and have explicit goals about what they would do if awarded the grant.
The Grand Prize winner won a $3500 grant, and Atlanta Habitat also awarded a surprise 2nd place grant of $1500! Amazing!!! As a fellow entrepreneur celebrating my 15th Anniversary this year, having any of those funds as a grant as I started my business would have empowered me to scale faster and secure vital tools and resources to run my business more efficiently. What an opportunity for these business owners! Congratulations to the award recipients:
1st Place: Zhonvieve Ellison, Owner of Eleven45 Candle Company
2nd Place: Kaneesia Lopez, Owner of Kaneesia’s Cheesecakes
I couldn’t leave the event without buying a candle from Eleven45, they smelled heavenly and she even upsold me on a wick cutter! I also indulged in some extra calories on Kaneesia’s delicious cheesecakes; definitely worth the extra calories!
Overall, the event was a great opportunity for small businesses like Eleven45 and Kaneesia’s cheesecakes to showcase their products, draw in new customers, and show how these initiatives can help local entrepreneurs succeed.
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I look forward to working with you!