This week on ChangeMakers, Katie sits down with Mariah Hayden, the Executive Director of New Life Village. Mariah has been tirelessly dedicated to providing safety and stability for children affected by trauma and mental health challenges, drawing from her academic training and personal experiences to oversee the expansion of New Life Village's campus with more affordable housing and amenities. Before taking on this essential role, Mariah had a successful career spanning marketing, project management, and education across various sectors, giving her a unique professional background that she has channeled into making a positive impact. In this inspiring conversation, Mariah shares her journey of combining skills and passion to create meaningful change for vulnerable youth, discussing innovative approaches, overcoming challenges, and her vision for the future of the organization and those it serves—a powerful example of how one person's commitment can transform lives and communities.Learn more about New Life Village here and find out more about Generations of Hope here.

The conversation turns to the Tulsa Housing Authority's major recent accomplishment: being awarded two significant and highly competitive Choice Neighborhoods Implementation grants by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Katie congratulates Aaron, noting that these federal grants are extremely difficult to obtain, and asks him to discuss his innovative strategy that made THA's proposals stand out. Darden explains his team's approach, sharing exciting details about the transformative redevelopment plans for the targeted neighborhoods that will catalyze comprehensive community revitalization efforts with new mixed-income housing, improved services, amenities, and economic opportunities. He also covers the profound impact these awards will have on the organization's broader initiatives and objectives, reflecting THA's commitment to creating sustainable, vibrant communities. Darden outlines how the dedicated team that drove this successful grant pursuit exemplifies this mission, providing insights into the long-lasting effect these achievements will have on uplifting Tulsa residents for years to come.

This week on ChangeMakers, Katie welcomes Aaron Darden, the President and CEO of the Tulsa Housing Authority. With nearly a decade of leadership experience at the Metropolitan Development and Housing Agency in Nashville, Darden has hit the ground running since taking the helm at THA, securing $80 million in Choice Neighborhoods Implementation grants and undergoing a portfolio conversion of its public housing properties. Since Darden's arrival, THA has leveraged over $350 million towards affordable housing development. Under his direction, the housing authority is driving transformative change through innovative public-private partnerships aimed at uplifting communities and increasing housing access in Tulsa. Tune in as Darden discusses his inspiring vision for revitalizing urban neighborhoods and creating equitable opportunities.

In the second half of this inspiring conversation, Mike Loftin dives deeper into the long-term impact and vision behind his pioneering work at Homewise. During part one, Mike discussed leveraging HUD and FHA programs to open up homeownership opportunities for underrepresented groups that have historically faced barriers to achieving this core aspect of the American dream. Katie presses Mike further, asking, "What specific policies or actions would need to be implemented at a broader level to truly achieve those goals of increasing homeownership equity?" Mike draws upon his decades of experience and deep understanding of housing policy to outline potential solutions. From reforming creditworthiness criteria to developing more low-cost financing options, he provides an inside look at the systemic changes needed to level the playing field. Don't miss this candid discussion that gets to the heart of what it will take to make the dream of homeownership a reality for all families, regardless of their background or circumstances. Mike's wisdom and innovative ideas will inspire you and could serve as a blueprint for real, lasting change in increasing access to affordable housing nationwide.About Mike Loftin: Mike joined Homewise in 1992 and provides strategic leadership for the company by working with the board of directors and the executive management team to drive the long-term vision, strategy, goals, and financial well-being of Homewise.With over 35 years’ experience in community and homeownership advocacy, Mike led the creation and implementation of Homewise’s customer-centric, comprehensively integrated homeownership business model. Mike drafted and led the campaign to pass Santa Fe’s inclusionary zoning law, one of the most ambitious in the country and which has served as the model for similar ordinances in other municipalities.More recently, he spearheaded the creation of Homewise’s catalytic community development strategy to revitalize targeted disinvested neighborhoods in Albuquerque and create new mixed-use, mixed-income communities in Santa Fe.Mike serves on the board of Excellent Schools New Mexico and previously served on the boards of the University of New Mexico Anderson School of Management Foundation and the New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority. Mike holds a BA in History from Northwestern University.

Katie Goar sits down with ChangeMaker Mike Loftin, a true visionary in the affordable housing space. For over 30 years, Mike has served as the Chief Executive Officer of Homewise, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making homeownership accessible in New Mexico. Under Mike's steadfast leadership, Homewise has pioneered an innovative and comprehensive model to guide individuals and families through every step of achieving the American dream of homeownership. From financial education to affordable mortgage lending, Homewise provides families with the support and resources needed to successfully become homeowners. Tune in as Mike shares his inspiring story, the challenges he's faced, the victories he's achieved, and his unwavering commitment to building stronger communities through homeownership. You won't want to miss this insightful conversation with one of the true ChangeMakers transforming lives and communities through the power of affordable housing.About Mike Loftin: Mike joined Homewise in 1992 and provides strategic leadership for the company by working with the board of directors and the executive management team to drive the long-term vision, strategy, goals, and financial well-being of Homewise.With over 35 years’ experience in community and homeownership advocacy, Mike led the creation and implementation of Homewise’s customer-centric, comprehensively integrated homeownership business model. Mike drafted and led the campaign to pass Santa Fe’s inclusionary zoning law, one of the most ambitious in the country and which has served as the model for similar ordinances in other municipalities.More recently, he spearheaded the creation of Homewise’s catalytic community development strategy to revitalize targeted disinvested neighborhoods in Albuquerque and create new mixed-use, mixed-income communities in Santa Fe.Mike serves on the board of Excellent Schools New Mexico and previously served on the boards of the University of New Mexico Anderson School of Management Foundation and the New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority. Mike holds a BA in History from Northwestern University.

In the second half of the episode, Jennifer reflects on her tenure as Deputy Executive Director at the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority during the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and the civil unrest following the murder of George Floyd. She opens up about the lessons learned from navigating those turbulent times while continuing to serve some of the community's most vulnerable residents. Katie also asks Jennifer to gaze into her proverbial crystal ball. Jennifer provides an inside look at the company's long-term vision for disrupting the single-family rental space through affordable housing initiatives, sustainable building practices, and innovative community programs. Don't miss her inspiring insights and bold predictions for making rental living more accessible and enriching for families nationwide in the years ahead.About Jennifer Keogh: Jennifer brings over 25 years of experience in affordable housing to her role as Vice President of Affordable Housing at Progress Residential. With a deep commitment to ensuring low-income families have access to thriving neighborhoods, Jennifer has dedicated her career to making a difference in this field.Prior to joining Progress Residential, Jennifer served as the Deputy Executive Director of the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority, one of the largest Housing Authorities in the country with Moving to Work Status and a HUD Mobility Program. During her career, Jennifer played a pivotal role in designing and implementing one of the initial mobility programs in the country, demonstrating her passion for economic and social mobility.Jennifer is currently the Strategic Planning Advisory Chair for the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO), where she is leading the development of their first 5-year Strategic Plan. Locally, she serves on the Affordable Housing Connections Board, further demonstrating her commitment to addressing housing challenges at both the national and local levels.

This week, Katie is joined by ChangeMaker Jennifer Keogh, Vice President of Operations and Affordable Housing at Progress Residential. With over 20 years as a leader in the affordable housing space, Jennifer brings a wealth of experience to the conversation. She previously served as Deputy Executive Director at the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority and as Chair at NAHRO, the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials. Now at one of the nation's largest providers of single-family rental homes, Jennifer oversees operations and spearheads initiatives aimed at increasing accessibility and affordability for renters. She joins Katie to discuss her inspiring career journey and Progress Residential's innovative approaches to making rental living more attainable for families across the country.About Jennifer Keogh: Jennifer brings over 25 years of experience in affordable housing to her role as Vice President of Affordable Housing at Progress Residential. With a deep commitment to ensuring low-income families have access to thriving neighborhoods, Jennifer has dedicated her career to making a difference in this field.Prior to joining Progress Residential, Jennifer served as the Deputy Executive Director of the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority, one of the largest Housing Authorities in the country with Moving to Work Status and a HUD Mobility Program. During her career, Jennifer played a pivotal role in designing and implementing one of the initial mobility programs in the country, demonstrating her passion for economic and social mobility.Jennifer is currently the Strategic Planning Advisory Chair for the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO), where she is leading the development of their first 5-year Strategic Plan. Locally, she serves on the Affordable Housing Connections Board, further demonstrating her commitment to addressing housing challenges at both the national and local levels.

After discussing how Bob.ai helped the Dallas Housing Authority launch a new artificial intelligence-based module for its Housing Choice Voucher program, Bejoy shares how Bob.ai plans to scale and impact more housing authorities around the country. Leveraging the success in Dallas, Bejoy has set his sights on rolling out Bob.ai's technology to housing authorities nationwide, helping streamline processes and connect low-income families with affordable housing options. Katie asks Bejoy if this AI-driven approach can also be applied to tackling other housing issues, like homelessness. Bejoy explains his vision for the future capabilities of the platform and how improved data utilization and system coordination enabled by automation can lead to better targeting of limited housing resources. Tune in to learn more about how Bob.ai aims to revolutionize public housing assistance across the US and make access to affordable housing a reality for those most in need.About Bejoy Narayana: Bejoy has over 20 years of IT experience in the fields of ERP systems and AI. As an expert in Supply Chain Management, Bejoy worked with the Watson product teams for several years at IBM, where he delivered several large-scale transformation programs. In December 2015, Bejoy founded BoodsKapper, now Bob.ai, where he works as both CEO and Chief Product Architect. Bejoy holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from India and an MBA from the NYU Stern School of Management, the Leonard N. Stern School of Business.

This week on ChangeMakers, Katie sits down with Bejoy Narayana, CEO, Chief Product Architect, and Founder of Bob.ai. Bob.ai is a company that leverages AI to automate cumbersome processes, share information, and improve outcomes for low-income families seeking housing. With his unique background in technology and business transformation, Bejoy leads the product vision at Bob.ai which is focused on building long-term solutions for the affordable housing ecosystem. Tune in to hear Katie and Bejoy discuss how he founded Bob.ai, the inspiration behind the company's mission, the role of technology and AI in improving access to affordable housing, and Bejoy's insights as both a tech entrepreneur and a leading voice in social impact. This is an episode of the ChangeMakers podcast you won't want to miss.About Bejoy Narayana: Bejoy has over 20 years of IT experience in the fields of ERP systems and AI. As an expert in Supply Chain Management, Bejoy worked with the Watson product teams for several years at IBM, where he delivered several large-scale transformation programs. In December 2015, Bejoy founded BoodsKapper, now Bob.ai, where he works as both CEO and Chief Product Architect. Bejoy holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from India and an MBA from the NYU Stern School of Management, the Leonard N. Stern School of Business.

In part two, Scott shares some advice for incorporating new developments within existing communities in a harmonious way. He discusses the importance of community engagement, transparent communication, and holistic planning when introducing new housing and amenities. Scott also shares more about RiseBoro’s innovative conversion of an empty hotel into affordable apartments for low-income and formerly homeless New Yorkers. This first-of-its-kind collaborative project posed some major logistical challenges. Scott describes some of the issues they faced in repurposing the hotel, such as retrofitting the layout and infrastructure for residential living.

This week's ChangeMaker is Scott Short, CEO of RiseBoro Community Partnership. As a visionary leader, Scott leads the charge to break down barriers and bridge divides, working tirelessly to ensure that one's zip code does not determine their access to healthcare, economic mobility, or housing security. Under Scott's leadership, RiseBoro has made instrumental strides, stewarding over $300 million to develop more than 2,500 units of affordable housing, with 5,000 more units in the pipeline. Scott brings decades of on-the-ground expertise to champion holistic, neighborhood-based solutions to some of New York City’s most pressing needs. RiseBoro has doubled its budget under Scott’s leadership to expand critical community programming. Scott Short is the embodiment of a true ChangeMaker, using his position and influence to create positive change in underserved communities and ensure that every member of society has access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

In the second part of this week's ChangeMakers podcast, Katie continues her inspiring conversation with La Shelle Dozier, Executive Director of the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency. Dozier talks about the importance of inviting her support staff to ceremonial events related to the agency's housing development projects. She believes these team members behind the scenes deserve recognition for their essential contributions. Dozier also discusses how her organization helps facilitate homeownership in Sacramento County, given its unique capabilities in the housing space. Please tune in to hear more about the creative ways Dozier leads her agency to empower families and pursue housing justice.About La Shelle Dozier: La Shelle is Executive Director of the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency, serving in this capacity since 2009 after holding the interim position during the previous year.As Executive Director, Ms. Dozier oversees community development and revitalization strategies in the City and County of Sacramento, as well as the provision of housing for low income residents using a wide variety of programs and financing mechanisms. She is responsible for the Agency’s function as the Housing Authority for the City and County of Sacramento which administers federally funded rental assistance programs to provide safe, decent housing that serves more than 14,000 low income families. Ms. Dozier is responsible for administering the Agency’s $211.9 million budget for 2020 with a workforce of 246 employees.Ms. Dozier leads SHRA as the largest public funder and provider of affordable housing in Sacramento, assisting with $175 million in financing, including bonds and loans in 2019 to help build or improve multifamily communities for low income residents, to help families purchase an affordable home, and to rehabilitate or build affordable single/multifamily housing. The Agency manages a $333 million affordable housing portfolio. Over the past 20 years, SHRA has assisted more than 22,800 units in multifamily properties through the application of various financing tools.Ms. Dozier previously served as the Director of the Sacramento Housing Authority. She was responsible for leadership oversight of the Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV/formerly Section 8), and the conventional public housing program. These programs provide rent assistance for more than 50,000 low income people, including elderly and disabled residents in the City and County of Sacramento. She was also responsible for monitoring and addressing the continued changes in major national policy that housing authorities across the country are facing, including significant reductions in structural and operational funds.

This week's episode of ChangeMakers profiles La Shelle Dozier, the Executive Director of the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency since 2009. In her role, Dozier oversees strategies to uplift and empower low-income communities across Sacramento County. She ensures affordable, safe, and decent housing for over 14,000 families through various programs run by the agency. Under Dozier's leadership over the past decade, the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency has supported the development of over 23,000 affordable housing units in the region. This incredible impact has truly transformed lives and communities. Tune in to be inspired by Dozier's vision, leadership, and dedication to creating more equitable access to housing in Sacramento County and beyond. About La Shelle Dozier: La Shelle is Executive Director of the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency, serving in this capacity since 2009 after holding the interim position during the previous year.As Executive Director, Ms. Dozier oversees community development and revitalization strategies in the City and County of Sacramento, as well as the provision of housing for low income residents using a wide variety of programs and financing mechanisms. She is responsible for the Agency’s function as the Housing Authority for the City and County of Sacramento which administers federally funded rental assistance programs to provide safe, decent housing that serves more than 14,000 low income families. Ms. Dozier is responsible for administering the Agency’s $211.9 million budget for 2020 with a workforce of 246 employees.Ms. Dozier leads SHRA as the largest public funder and provider of affordable housing in Sacramento, assisting with $175 million in financing, including bonds and loans in 2019 to help build or improve multifamily communities for low income residents, to help families purchase an affordable home, and to rehabilitate or build affordable single/multifamily housing. The Agency manages a $333 million affordable housing portfolio. Over the past 20 years, SHRA has assisted more than 22,800 units in multifamily properties through the application of various financing tools.Ms. Dozier previously served as the Director of the Sacramento Housing Authority. She was responsible for leadership oversight of the Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV/formerly Section 8), and the conventional public housing program. These programs provide rent assistance for more than 50,000 low income people, including elderly and disabled residents in the City and County of Sacramento. She was also responsible for monitoring and addressing the continued changes in major national policy that housing authorities across the country are facing, including significant reductions in structural and operational funds.

In the second part of their conversation, Katie and Andrea delve deeper into the ultimate mission of Stewards of Affordable Housing for the Future (SAHF)—to advance and preserve affordable rental housing. Andrea sheds light on some of the specific goals and projects her organization is undertaking, particularly in the realm of financing tools and policy initiatives. With a notable recent surge of interest in the low-income housing tax credit, SAHF has been actively engaged in shaping how that program can most effectively support nonprofit affordable housing providers. Tune in for an illuminating discussion on the innovative solutions SAHF is advancing through research, advocacy, and strategic partnerships to unlock capital and reduce policy barriers facing the affordable housing sector.

This week's ChangeMaker is Andrea Ponsor, a leader dedicated to creating sustainable and affordable housing communities. As President and CEO of Stewards of Affordable Housing for the Future (SAHF), she works tirelessly to identify key strategic issues, advocate for nonprofit housing providers, and amplify the organization's impact. With over 15 years of experience championing housing and community development initiatives, Andrea is an inspired voice shaping policy and unlocking new solutions for vulnerable populations to thrive. Katie will be speaking with Andrea about her visionary leadership and tireless efforts to expand affordable housing opportunities across the country. Tune in to hear Andrea's uplifting story of empowering communities through strategic partnerships and innovative programs that are building a more just and equitable society for all.

In part two of their discussion, Joseph Diehl shares his optimistic outlook for the new year. As the Interim Executive Director at the National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC), Joe sheds light on the organization's remarkable success stories, triumphing over funding obstacles and navigating complex land challenges. Through his engaging conversation with Katie Goar, Joe illustrates how NAIHC has overcome hurdles to provide quality, affordable, and culturally relevant housing for American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians. Join them in exploring the resilience and determination that have fueled these achievements as Joe shares compelling narratives that inspire hope and exemplify the positive impact ChangeMakers can have in the face of adversity.About Joseph Diehl: Joseph has been involved in NAIHC since 1998. Joe was the Executive Director of Region VI (Northwest Indian Housing Association) from 1998-2016 and attended every NAIHC conference over that period. In 2015, Joe was tapped to serve as Interim Executive Director after the then-serving Executive Director departed, a position he held for three months. Joe then accepted the position of Deputy Director of NAIHC from July 2017 to September 2019. Since then, Joe has been a presenter of “soft-skills” personal development topics at NAIHC conferences. Joe also provided meeting planning and event management services earlier in Waikoloa, HI – February to May, 2023. Prior to working in Indian country, Joe held various accounting and finance positions in the for-profit sector from 1970-1990. Joe is a CPA, Attorney at Law and completed his Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach certification from the Institute for Functional Medicine, in February, 2023.

Katie kicks off 2024 with ChangeMaker Joseph Diehl, the Interim Executive Director at the National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC). With over 25 years of experience working closely with NAIHC, Joe offers invaluable insights into the organization's mission of providing quality, affordable, and culturally relevant housing for American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians. Known for his compassion, wisdom, and leadership, Joe's perspective will illuminate the challenges and innovative solutions in Native communities. Join Katie Goar in welcoming Joe Diehl to the podcast for an inspiring conversation as they kick off the new year.About Joseph Diehl: Joseph has been involved in NAIHC since 1998. Joe was the Executive Director of Region VI (Northwest Indian Housing Association) from 1998-2016 and attended every NAIHC conference over that period. In 2015, Joe was tapped to serve as Interim Executive Director after the then-serving Executive Director departed, a position he held for three months. Joe then accepted the position of Deputy Director of NAIHC from July 2017 to September 2019. Since then, Joe has been a presenter of “soft-skills” personal development topics at NAIHC conferences. Joe also provided meeting planning and event management services earlier in Waikoloa, HI – February to May, 2023. Prior to working in Indian country, Joe held various accounting and finance positions in the for-profit sector from 1970-1990. Joe is a CPA, Attorney at Law and completed his Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach certification from the Institute for Functional Medicine, in February, 2023.

Katie revisits her inspiring conversation with Marietta Rodriguez, a champion for affordable housing and community development. As President and CEO of NeighborWorks America, Marietta leads the organization's efforts to provide access to safe, affordable housing across the country. With over two decades of experience, Marietta is an insightful leader dedicated to empowering individuals, families, and communities. Tune in as she shares her passion for creating brighter futures through homeownership opportunities and neighborhood revitalization. Marietta's experience and innovative vision continue to drive meaningful change and strengthen communities nationwide. You'll come away from this discussion feeling motivated by her tireless commitment to helping more people achieve the dream of homeownership.

In part two, Grace provides an in-depth look at some of the most pressing housing issues facing Anaheim right now. Given her over 20 years of experience managing housing programs in LA County, Grace has a unique perspective on the "silver tsunami"—the coming wave of aging Baby Boomers who will require accessible, affordable senior housing options. Grace discusses whether she is observing similar housing affordability challenges and shortages in Anaheim as in LA, two regions facing considerable pressure. Tune in to be inspired by Grace’s seasoned leadership in tackling these urgent housing issues to empower Anaheim’s most vulnerable seniors.About Grace Ruiz-Stepter: Ms. Ruiz-Stepter has over twenty-eight years of experience managing various housing and community development programs. Currently, she holds the dual roles of Director of Housing and Community Development for the City of Anaheim and Executive Director of the Anaheim Housing Authority.Her responsibilities include overseeing all affordable housing development programs in Anaheim, including the Housing Choice Voucher program, which provides rental subsidies to over 6,800 in Anaheim; oversight of the Workforce Development program; and federal entitlement programs including the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) and the HOME Investment Partnership Program. These programs provide valuable financial resources needed to address varying housing and community needs and can be leveraged with other public and private resources to address community needs.Under her leadership, the Anaheim Housing Authority has produced over 500 new units of affordable housing in the past five years and is on track to produce another 500 to 800 units in the next five years, building on a rich history of affordable housing production in Anaheim. Her work has involved working collaboratively with the Anaheim City Department to adopt creative land use policies and engaging in extensive community revitalization initiatives to address distressed neighborhoods.Ms. Stepter also oversees Anaheim’s Homeless Response System of Care. In this role, she manages a committed team of professionals who work collaboratively with city departments to address individual, business, and community needs. Her team oversees street outreach engagement, shelter operations, and funding for social service providers. With her team, she is engaged in securing new ideas and resources to support the homelessness system of care. She is also actively engaged in regional and state efforts to identify and implement proven best practices.Ms. Stepter began her professional career at the Los Angeles County Housing and Community Development Agency, where she advanced from front-line work into leadership positions. She held the position of Housing Choice Voucher Manager and later Intergovernmental Relations and Public Information for the agency. She joined Quadel Consulting Corporation in 2001. Quadel is a leading consulting agency that provides program management, training, and consulting to the affordable housing industry. At Quadel, she served as the Housing Choice Voucher Director for the Memphis Housing Authority. She is credited with transforming a long-standing, troubled MHA program into a high-performing one in just two years.In addition to her work in Anaheim, Ms. Stepter is involved with and has held leadership positions in various professional associations, including the California Association of Housing Authorities (CAHA), the statewide organization that represents all public agencies in California. She currently serves on the United Way of Orange County, the United to End Homelessness Leadership Council, and is co-chair of the Orange County Continuum of Care Housing Committee. She was also just sworn in (October 2023) as the National Chair for Community and Revitalization for NAHRO, the largest national affordable housing organization, representing more than 17,000 individual members and associates and 2,500 agency members (including housing authorities, CD departments, and redevelopment agencies)

This week's ChangeMaker podcast features Grace Ruiz-Stepter, Director of the Housing and Community Development Department for the City of Anaheim. Katie welcomes Grace, a highly accomplished housing program manager with over 20 years of experience overseeing federal and local initiatives to provide affordable housing and spur community development. Before joining Anaheim, Grace held leadership roles managing critical housing programs at the Housing Authority of Los Angeles County. Throughout her career, she has helped expand access to affordable housing and empowered communities through her tireless advocacy and skilled leadership. On the show, Grace and Katie will have an inspiring conversation about Grace’s journey to leadership and her vision for creating more affordable, equitable housing solutions. Grace shares the challenges that drive her in this work, the creative strategies she’s leading in Anaheim, and advice for other systems changers looking to make an impact in their cities. Tune in for an insightful and uplifting discussion about how Grace and others are creating meaningful change from within government agencies. You’ll come away motivated and equipped to create change in your community.About Grace Ruiz-Stepter: Ms. Ruiz-Stepter has over twenty-eight years of experience managing various housing and community development programs. Currently, she holds the dual role of Director of Housing and Community Development for the City of Anaheim and Executive Director of the Anaheim Housing Authority.Her responsibilities include overseeing all affordable housing development programs for Anaheim, including the Housing Choice Voucher program which provides rental subsidies to over 6,800 in Anaheim, oversight of the Workforce Development program and federal entitlement programs including Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) and the HOME Investment Partnership Program. These programs provide valuable financial resources needed to address varying housing and community needs and can be leveraged with other public and private resources to address community needs.Under her leadership, the Anaheim Housing Authority has produced over 500 new units of affordable housing in the past five years and is on track to produce another 500 to 800 units in the next five years, building on a rich history of affordable housing production in Anaheim. Her work has involved working collaboratively with Anaheim City Department to adopt creative land use policies, engaging in extensive community revitalization initiatives to address distressed neighborhoods.Ms. Stepter also oversees Anaheim’s Homeless Response System of Care.In this role, she manages a committed team of professionals who work collaboratively with City Departments to address individual, business, and community needs. Her team oversees street outreach engagement, shelter operations and funding to social services providers. With her team, she is engaged in securing new ideas and resources to support the homelessness system of care. She is also actively engaged in regional and State efforts to identify and implement proven best practices.Ms. Stepter began her professional career at the Los Angeles County Housing and Community Development Agency, where she advanced from front line work into leadership positions. She held the position of Housing Choice Voucher Manager and later Intergovernmental Relations and Public Information for the Agency. She joined Quadel Consulting Corporation in 2001. Quadel is a leading consulting agency that provides program management, training, and consulting to the affordable housing industry. At Quadel, she served as the Housing Choice Voucher Director for the Memphis Housing Authority. She is credited with transforming a long standing troubled MHA program to high-performing in just two years.In addition to her work in Anaheim, Ms. Stepter is involved with and has held leadership positions in various professional associations including the California Association of Housing Authorities (CAHA), the Statewide organization that represents all Public Agencies in California. She currently serves on the United Way of Orange County, United to End Homelessness Leadership Council and is Co-Chair of the Orange County Continuum of Care Housing Committee. She was also just sworn in (October 2023) as that National Chair for Community and Revitalization for NAHRO, the largest national affordable housing organization representing more than 17,000 individual members and associates and 2,500 agency members (including housing authorities, CD departments, redevelopment agencies)