Interfaith Housing Alliance

Volunteer Spotlight

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 20:23:02 GMT

Veridian Capital Partners Brightens Weinberg House with Hands-On Volunteer Work

On Friday February 20, 2026, the team from Veridian Capital Partners, led by founding partners Brian Runkles, CFP, Chandru Ramachandran, CFP, and Brian Williamson, CFP, brought a splash of color—and a lot of heart—to Weinberg House. The group dedicated their time and resources to repaint the hallway rails and residents’ doors, transforming the spaces leading into each apartment.

Built in 1995, Weinberg House has long been a warm and supportive home for its residents. The recent makeover not only lifted the spirits of the IHA staff and residents, but also gave the building a refreshed, welcoming appearance that reflects the care and community within its walls.

“It’s incredible to see the space come alive with new color, and the joy it brings to our residents is priceless,” said a member of the Weinberg House staff.

Thanks to the generosity and hands-on effort of Veridian Capital Partners, Weinberg House is now brighter, more inviting, and a testament to the power of community collaboration.

Unity Campaign 2026

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 20:15:04 GMT

Stronger Credit. Stronger Families. Stronger Frederick.

The 2026 Unity Campaign & IHA’s Credit Café

Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) is proud to participate in the 2026 Unity Campaign for Frederick County.

What is the Unity Campaign?

The Unity Campaign is Frederick County’s annual, fully online giving event that brings together local nonprofits, sponsors, and community members for one powerful purpose: strengthening our community together.

Every dollar you donate goes directly to the nonprofit of your choice — and we hope you’ll choose Interfaith Housing Alliance.

Why Your Support Matters

All nonprofits participating in the Unity Campaign serve ALICE households.

ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families earn above the Federal Poverty Level, yet still struggle to afford basic necessities like housing, childcare, transportation, food, and healthcare.

In Frederick County, 36% of households fall into the ALICE category. That means more than one in three families in our community are working hard — but still living on the financial edge.

It could be your neighbor. Your coworker. Your child’s coach. Your family member.

Your donation helps create stability where it’s needed most.

Where Your Donation Goes: The Credit Café Workshop

Unity Campaign donations directly support IHA’s Credit Café Workshop — a completely free program designed to help individuals build stronger credit and greater financial confidence.

Just $94.10 covers the cost of two credit reports for one participant.

That one step can open the door to:

Safer housing
Lower interest rates
Reliable transportation
Better employment opportunities

Credit impacts nearly every major financial decision — from renting an apartment to turning on utilities. When someone improves their credit, they improve their future.

How the Credit Café Works

The program combines education, personalized strategy, and continued support.

Step 1: Group Education

Participants attend a one-hour virtual workshop offered multiple times each month. They learn:

How credit scores work
What impacts their score
How to build or repair credit
Smart financial habits for long-term stability

Step 2: One-on-One Advising

Within one week, participants meet virtually with an advisor for a personalized 30-minute session.

They receive:

A free tri-merged credit report (pulled the day of the session)
Help understanding their report
A customized action plan with realistic credit goals

Step 3: Continued Support

Participants don’t navigate the process alone. Advisors follow up at 3 and 6 months (by text, email, or phone — participant’s choice) to check progress and provide guidance.

They’re also invited back for:

A second advising session
An updated credit report

The program is currently 100% virtual, with expanding hybrid options. Interpretation services are available at no cost in more than 240 languages.

How to Donate

There are two easy ways to support IHA through the 2026 Unity Campaign:

Visit the campaign donation page and select Interfaith Housing Alliance: https://fundraise.givesmart.com/vf/UnityFC26/team/InterfaithHousing

2. Text the campaign code to donate directly: UnityFC2661 to 71777

Every gift makes a measurable impact.

Not Able to Donate?

You can still make a difference.

Share this campaign. Talk about it. Spread the word. Community awareness fuels community change.

Interested in the Credit Café Workshop?

Contact Lacy Allen
Email: lames@interfaithhousing.org
Text: 301-818-5606

Together, we can build stronger credit, stronger families, and a stronger Frederick.

Spring Grant Updates 2026

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 20:04:38 GMT

Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) is proud to announce 12 funding awards totaling more than $333k during the last two quarters from our community partners.

In September 2025, IHA was awarded two grants that will support the organization’s Financial Dignity and Empowerment Services. IHA received a $30,000 grant from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) Maryland Housing Counseling Fund (MHCF). IHA also received a $10,000 grant from Truist Financial Corporation. These grants will support the full spectrum of community programming we offer, including: group educational workshops on financial health; individualized financial coaching and housing counseling; and pathways to homeownership.

In October 2025, IHA received a $125,000 grant from Morgan Stanley. This grant supports IHA in its ongoing quest to create and provide affordable housing opportunities for LMI community members. It also allows IHA to continue supporting community members through our Financial Dignity and Empowerment Services..

IHA was also awarded a grant by the Ausherman Family Foundation. This 2:1 matching grant will match up to $30,000 in donations raised from community members and IHA’s Board of Directors during the organization's 2025-2026 annual appeal. Funds will support the full range of IHA’s services and programming.

In November 2025 and January 2026, IHA was awarded a total allocation of $45,000 in State tax credits through the Community Investment Tax Credit (CITC) Program of Maryland’s DHCD. Donors who make contributions of $500 or more to IHA in support of our mission are eligible to earn tax credits equal to 50% of the value of the money, goods, or real property contribution. These tax credits are in addition to the deductions on both Federal and State taxes as a result of the charitable contribution.

In November 2025, IHA was awarded a $20,000 grant from Delaplaine Foundation, Inc. This grant supports three of IHA’s programs: Credit Café; Financial Freedom Bootcamp; and the Frederick Affordable Homeownership Incubator (FAHI). Credit Café participants work specifically on improving their credit. Financial Freedom Bootcamp builds critical foundational skills for financial success. FAHI is a new program in the planning phase that takes a multisectoral approach to affordable housing.

IHA also received two funding awards in support of its Credit Café program. IHA’s $10,000 application to participate in United Way of Frederick County’s Annual Unity Campaign was approved. This approval enables IHA to participate in the Spring 2026 Unity Campaign alongside other local nonprofit organizations to collectively raise funds in the Frederick County community. IHA also received a $1,500 Community Grant from the Rotary Club of Carroll Creek (RCCC). Credit Café promotes financial stability among LMI households through group credit education and free, individualized credit advising. Participants partner with a financial coach to create a strategic plan to either build, boost, or improve their report.

In addition, IHA received a $1,518.91 designated grant from The PNC Homeownership Fund of The Community Foundation of Frederick County. These pass-through funds will directly support low- to moderate-income (LMI) households in achieving homeownership in Frederick County.

In December 2025, IHA was awarded a $55,676 grant from the Maryland Affordable Housing Trust (MAHT). This grant supports the rehabilitation of IHA’s Weinberg House. This 23-unit affordable rental community in Frederick, MD was originally built in 1994 and houses senior members of our community ages 62 and older with very low to moderate income. The rehabilitation project includes upgrades to heating, appliances, plumbing, drywall, flooring, lighting, cabinets, and countertops.

IHA also received a $5,000 donor-advised grant from The Nicholson Family Fund of Morgan Stanley. These unrestricted funds will support all of IHA’s endeavors in strengthening the communities we serve.

Cheers to 35 Years!

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 20:00:44 GMT

Cheers to 35 Years of IHA!

This year, Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) proudly celebrates 35 years of building homes and strengthening communities across Western and Central Maryland and south-central Pennsylvania. What began in Western Maryland in 1990 with a small group of faith and community leaders has grown into one of the region’s most trusted nonprofit housing organizations.

Since those early days, IHA has produced 1,681 units of affordable housing and invested over $413 million in the communities we serve. Guided by our mission to build homes that build community , we work every day to help families, seniors, and individuals find not just a place to live—but a place to thrive.

Our Programs: Supporting Stability and Growth

At IHA, we know that a home is just the beginning—true stability is built when people have the knowledge, tools, and support they need to succeed. That’s why we offer free programs for anyone in the community who wants to enhance their financial wellbeing and housing stability.

Credit Café: A free three-part series that includes group workshops and one-on-one credit report reviews to help participants understand, build, or rebuild their credit.
Financial Freedom Bootcamp: Two interactive workshops that cover budgeting, saving, debt reduction, credit management, and setting achievable financial goals.
Purchase-Repair Homeownership Program: Serving Carroll, Frederick, and Washington counties, this program offers free technical assistance through every step of the homebuying or home-repair process—from budgeting and credit counseling to post-purchase support.
Resident Supportive Services: Across our affordable rental communities, IHA provides on-site programs such as life skills training, youth development, health and wellness resources, job readiness support, and community-building events.

These initiatives reflect our belief that housing is the foundation—but thriving communities are built through connection, opportunity, and care.

Our Housing Communities

Together, we’ve built and continue to manage welcoming communities, including:

Oakwood Family Homes – 22 single-family lease-to-own homes in Glen Burnie, MD
Penn Avenue Townhomes – 25 townhomes in Cumberland, MD
Washington Ridge – 28 family apartments in Frostburg, MD
Weinberg House – 23 senior apartments in Frederick, MD
520 North Market – 59 family apartments in Frederick, MD
The Residences at Railroad Square – 45 family apartments in Brunswick, MD

Each of these communities represents more than bricks and mortar—they represent dreams realized, families supported, and neighbors who care for one another.

As we mark this milestone, we’re filled with gratitude for the residents, partners, staff, and supporters who have shared in this journey. Together, we’ve built more than homes—we’ve built community, connection, and a brighter future.

Here’s to the next 35 years of Building Homes to Build Community.

2025 Out of Reach

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 14:49:14 GMT

Maryland and Frederick County: A Growing Housing Affordability Crisis

Each year around this time, I share data that highlights the growing challenge of housing affordability in Maryland—and this year is no exception.

Maryland now ranks as the 8th most expensive state in terms of wages needed to afford a modest two-bedroom apartment. A worker must earn $39.15 per hour —or nearly $81,450 annually —just to meet that threshold.

Unfortunately, the situation in Frederick County is even more severe. Alongside Calvert and Charles counties, Frederick tops the list, requiring a staggering $44.50 per hour —equivalent to $92,560 annually —to afford a two-bedroom apartment.

Meanwhile, the average renter in Frederick earns just $18.25 per hour , which translates to an affordable rent of only $949 per month —far below what the market demands.

This stark disparity is exactly why the mission of Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) is so critical. We are committed to addressing these inequities and advocating for solutions that make safe, stable housing accessible to all.

Below, you’ll find the 2025 data from the National Low Income Housing Coalition , detailing housing affordability across Maryland and its counties.

Fall Newsletter Grant Updates

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 14:38:39 GMT

Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) is proud to announce two funding awards received this quarter from community partners. In July 2025, IHA received a $3,500 grant from The Croteau Family Charitable Gift Fund, which is a donor-advised fund (DAF) held at T. Rowe Price Charitable. IHA also received a $5,000 grant from The Natelli Communities Charitable Fund of The Community Foundation of Frederick County. These unrestricted funds will support all of IHA’s endeavors in strengthening the many communities we serve.

Build Confidence With Your Finances at Financial Freedom Bootcamp

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 14:36:45 GMT

Money can sometimes feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to! This October, Interfaith Housing Alliance is offering our next Financial Freedom Bootcamp, a free, two-part workshop designed to help you take positive steps toward financial stability and confidence.

The bootcamp kicks off with an in-person workshop on October 15th from 5:30–7:00pm, where participants will explore the building blocks of financial health. You’ll learn how to create a budget that actually works for your lifestyle, discover the best practices for saving, and walk away with strategies for reducing debt in realistic and manageable ways.

After the first session, participants are invited to take part in an optional virtual Credit Café, a supportive space to dive deeper into questions about credit and money management. This extra resource helps reinforce what you’ve learned and gives you the chance to connect with others working toward similar goals.

The second workshop will be held virtually on October 29th from 5:30–7:00pm, making it convenient to join from home. This session will focus on building confidence when communicating with creditors, understanding your credit, and setting SMART goals to stay on track for the future. Together, these two sessions provide practical, easy-to-use tools to support your financial journey.

No matter where you are starting from—whether you’re new to budgeting, trying to rebuild your credit, or just looking for ways to feel more in control—Financial Freedom Bootcamp is a welcoming and encouraging place to begin.

At a Glance

What : Financial Freedom Bootcamp – free, two-part workshop series
When: October 15th (in-person) & October 29th (virtual), both 5:30–7:00pm
Topics: Budgeting, saving, debt reduction, credit confidence, SMART goal setting
Extras: Optional virtual Credit Café between sessions
Register: Contact Lacy Allen at lames@interfaithhousing.org or 301-662-4425 ext. 1203

A Second Chance: Nicole’s Journey to Stability at Residence at Railroad Square

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 14:34:59 GMT

December 20, 2024, marked one of the happiest days of Nicole’s life—it was the day she and her three children finally had a place to call home. After facing difficult times, being approved as a tenant at the Residence at Railroad Square meant more than just a roof over their heads; it was a second chance at stability and safety.

That Christmas, Nicole and her children celebrated the holiday together in their new home. The joy and comfort of that season symbolized a fresh start. As the new year began, life started looking up for Nicole and her family. However , in April 2025, unexpected health issues forced Nicole to miss work, which quickly affected her ability to keep up with rent. Falling behind financially led to an eviction filing—a terrifying prospect that reminded Nicole of the instability she had worked so hard to overcome.

“ When I had to be taken to court, it scared me to the point that I immediately reached out to Support Services and other resources to get this fixed ,” Nicole shared. “ My fear was that I would end up back in hotels, homeless again. In Frederick, once you leave the shelter, you have to wait a year just to get on the waitlist again. Then you wait even longer for your turn to get back in. ”

At her first court appearance, the property manager requested a two-week continuance so that Nicole could work with the property’s Support Service Coordinator, Sandi. That small window became a turning point.

Nicole took immediate action. She met with Sandi to complete a budget plan and connected with resources for rental assistance and food support. She arranged with her property manager to begin making bi-weekly rent payments, making it easier to manage her finances. Most importantly, she made tough but necessary decisions for the wellbeing of her family—like no longer giving her children extra spending money out of guilt for their past struggles. “ I’ve worked hard to get back on track. Sandi guided me to resources that really helped—rent support, food banks, and more. Since the eviction was lifted, I’ve been working closely with Support Services to stay stable ,” Nicole shared.

Nicole’s story is one of determination, and the impact of supportive housing and compassionate services. Her journey reflects the importance of second chances—and how a little support at the right time can change everything.

35 years. Thank you, you did it!

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 14:31:31 GMT

For 35 years, IHA has remained steadfast in its mission.
Through obstacles, frustration, pain, tears, a global pandemic, and uncertain times—we persevered. Because that’s what it takes to create affordable housing. That’s the raw truth.

As you read this, maybe you’re smiling—because you’re one of the 1,685 households IHA has helped find a home you can afford. You are the reason we exist. We celebrate you.

Or perhaps you’re a current or former staff member who helped make this mission a reality. Maybe you held someone’s hand as they shared their struggles and dreams. You might have helped improve a credit score, written a grant, paid the bills, managed a property, or even launched IHA itself. We salute you. You made it happen.

Maybe you’re a funder, donor, or investor who believed in our work. You did it. Your dollars created impact and changed lives. Words can’t fully express our gratitude—or the gratitude of those whose lives were transformed by your support.

Or perhaps you’re a current or former board member who believed deeply in IHA’s mission and generously gave your time to serve. You helped shape programs, raise funds, guide the CEO, serve on committees, and plan for both challenges and triumphs. You stood with us through it all—and rejoiced in our successes. Well done. We are grateful.

As we reflect on 35 years of impact, we are filled with gratitude—for every household housed, every hand extended, every dollar invested, and every moment of belief in our mission. IHA’s story is not just one of perseverance—it’s a story of people. People who dared to dream, who worked tirelessly, who gave generously, and who stood together to make affordable housing a reality. As we look ahead, we carry this legacy forward with renewed commitment and hope. Thank you for being part of our journey.

Now, we invite you to be part of the mission.
Our year-end campaign will kick off on November 1st, and this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact. Thanks to generous sponsors, every dollar you give will be matched with $2 , tripling your contribution. We’ve already secured $60,000 in matching sponsorships , and we’re aiming to raise $30,000 more to continue this vital work.

Your support helps families find stability, dignity, and hope through affordable housing. Please consider joining us—because together, we build more than homes. We build futures.

With gratitude and hope,
Jodie Ostoich
President & CEO

P.S. Every dollar you give will be matched with $2 , tripling your impact. Help us reach our goal and continue building futures through affordable housing. �� Click here to donate now

IHA Celebrates 35 Years!

jostoich@interfaithhousing.org (Jodie Ostoich) — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 14:31:29 GMT

On July 11 ^th , IHA will be sharing the impact our organization has had over the last 35 years via social media. SAVE THE DATE to take part in our special day.

IHA is celebrating 35 years of affordable housing creation and preservation on July 11, 2025! In our 35-year history, IHA has been responsible for creating or rehabilitating 1,685 units of affordable housing.

On July 11 ^th , IHA will be sharing the impact our organization has had over the last 35 years via social media. SAVE THE DATE to take part in our special day.

What do we need from you (our supporters)?

·Mark your calendars for 7-11-2024.

·Help spread awareness to IHA’s mission by sharing, liking, and commenting on IHA Day of Giving posts on Facebook and Instagram.

·Consider donating to support IHA.

·Donate at: https://www.zeffy.com/donation-form/2025-iha-day

Scan our QR code to be taken to our donation link:

Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) is proud to announce two funding awards.

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 14:03:40 GMT

Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) is proud to announce two funding awards received this quarter from community partners.

In April 2025, IHA was awarded a $7,500 grant from the City of Frederick through the Community Promotion Grant program. This grant supports aging in place and youth development needs among City residents through IHA’s Supportive Services. The program serves residents of IHA’s senior and multi-family affordable rental communities at 222 Broadway Street (Weinberg House) and 520 N. Market Street, respectively.

IHA was also awarded a $25,000 Community Partnership Grant from Frederick County Government. This grant supports IHA’s full range of Financial Dignity and Empowerment Services, including our homeownership and financial education programming. IHA’s Purchase-Repair Program provides an avenue to homeownership for those who otherwise would not qualify for a traditional home loan. In Credit Café, participants work specifically on improving their credit. Financial Freedom Bootcamp helps participants improve their skills in budgeting, saving, debt reduction, and financial goal setting. Ready, Set, Go… Home! walks participants through the entire homebuying process from start to finish.

IHA Tenant Profile: Alice Buchanan the Weinberg House

jostoich@interfaithhousing.org (Jodie Ostoich) — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 14:01:15 GMT

Alice Buchanan moved from Frederick, MD to North Carolina to take care of her daughter, Angela, who had kidney failure. Angela was in the Navy and served for 20 years when she retired. Upon Angela’s death, Alice stayed in North Carolina to raise her daughter’s children.

When the children became adults, Alice wanted to come back “home” to Frederick, MD. Alice was looking for an apartment, so she asked her friend who was living in Frederick to help her with her search. Her friend connected Alice to Weinberg House. As soon as Alice heard there was a vacant unit she immediately returned to Frederick. Alice Buchanan moved into Weinberg House on May 12, 2015.

Other than Alice, there is only one other person who has lived at Weinberg House since Alice moved in.

Alice says she is blessed since she is still able to drive. Having the independence to take herself to doctors, to get groceries, and shopping.

Alice likes it at Weinberg House. She gets along with all the tenants. She is happy that everyone gets along! They have cook outs and spend holidays together. They play bingo, do Christmas cards, and sit on the porch together when the weather is nice.

Alice likes how her apartment looks since they were redone. She enjoyed seeing the transformation from how the apartments looked compared to now. One thing Alice misses about her old apartment is the big countertop space.

Voices of Affordable Housing

jostoich@interfaithhousing.org (Jodie Ostoich) — Sun, 25 May 2025 18:20:57 GMT

Voices of Affordable Housing: Affordable Housing

Gary Free resident at Residences at Railroad Square Apartments

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 20:48:50 GMT

Gary Free grew up in Brunswick, MD. The first time he saw the Residences at Railroad Square, he knew he would love to live in the apartments. Now all he can think to himself is, “I am living here!”

Gary said the day he signed his lease he was so happy! He has a picture hanging in his apartment that says, “You’re Home.” Gary looks at it often and says to himself, “I am!” He finally feels at peace.

Gary feels his home is nice! He also feels one of the ways of living at Residences of Railroad Square is that he now has everything he ever wanted, asked for and needed. The only thing he feels is a concern is that most of the time he gets lonely. His goal is to try to meet people. He says, “I’m a very friendly person.” Gary says his experience living at the Residences at Railroad Square has been rather good. If he has any concerns he can talk to the office staff. He feels it can’t get any better than this!

Lease-up of Residence of Railroad Square

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 20:48:47 GMT

With excitement and anticipation, I watched the groundbreaking on June 29, 2023, with my assistant Vickie and IHA’s Supportive Services coordinator, Sandi. By the middle of September 2023 concrete walls were being set up. We watched as the roof was completed; then the windows and doors were installed. We impatiently waited for the day we received permission to see the inside of the Residences of Railroad Square property. Finally, on September 25, 2024, we had the privilege to tour the inside of this beautiful property.

On the weekend of September 27, 2024, the IHA property management team along with the CEO Jodie, held a two-day in-person application event. The owners of First Stop Brunswick generously donated their space at 2. E. Baltimore Street. That lease up kick off generated 56 applications. Over the next three months, ninety more applications were submitted.

Each applicant came with their own story which stirred our hearts. No matter how different their stories may have been, they all had the same wish, a place to call home for Christmas! On November 5, 2024, the first resident signed their lease and on December 23, 2024, the last empty unit was filled! Not only were we able to fulfill these residents' Christmas wishes but it also filled our hearts with joy!

Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) is proud to announce 4 funding awards received this quarter from community partners.

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 20:48:45 GMT

In November 2024, IHA was awarded a $20,000 grant from Delaplaine Foundation, Inc. This grant supports IHA’s three workshop series: Credit Café ; Financial Freedom Bootcamp ; and Ready, Set, Go… Home! In Credit Café, participants work specifically on improving their credit. Financial Freedom Bootcamp builds critical foundational skills for financial success. Ready, Set, Go… Home! walks participants through the entire homebuying process from start to finish.

IHA also received a $1,574.37 designated grant from The PNC Homeownership Fund of The Community Foundation of Frederick County. These pass-through funds will directly support low- to moderate-income (LMI) households in achieving homeownership in Frederick County.

In December 2024, IHA was awarded a $29,498 grant from the Maryland Affordable Housing Trust (MAHT). MAHT is administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) through the Division of Neighborhood Revitalization. This grant program is a valuable resource for the advancement of affordable housing initiatives and will provide operational assistance to IHA’s affordable multifamily community in Cumberland, MD.

In January 2025, IHA was awarded a $2,500 grant by The Natelli Communities Charitable Fund of The Community Foundation of Frederick County. These unrestricted funds will support IHA’s work across the multiple counties served by our programs and affordable rental communities.

Support Interfaith Housing Alliance During the 2025 Unity Campaign – Empower Lives Through the Credit Café Workshop

lames@interfaithhousing.org (Lacy Ames) — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 20:48:43 GMT

Imagine living paycheck to paycheck, struggling to afford housing, and being trapped in a cycle of financial instability. Now, imagine a place where families receive the guidance they need to break free—where they learn how to build credit, manage debt, and create a stable financial future. That’s exactly what the Credit Café Workshop , supported by Interfaith Housing Alliance, does for our community.

During the 2025 Unity Campaign for Frederick County , your donation will directly support this life-changing program. The Credit Café Workshop provides free financial coaching , credit-building tools , and one-on-one support to individuals and families striving for self-sufficiency. By donating, you’re not just giving money—you’re giving hope, opportunity, and a path to financial independence .

With your support, more people can:
✔ Learn how to improve their credit scores
✔ Access affordable housing and loan opportunities
✔ Break the cycle of poverty for themselves and their children

Every dollar makes a difference. Plus, during the Unity Campaign, your contribution can be matched , making your impact even greater!

Join us in building a stronger, more financially secure community. Donate today and help turn financial dreams into reality.

To donate, Text UnityFC25188 to 71777 or visit this link: Donate to IHA's Unity Campaign

Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Growth and Community Impact

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 00:26:21 GMT

As we approach the end of 2024, IHA reflects on our continued commitment to making homeownership attainable and affordable for families at or below a median income. This year has been one of growth, innovation, and impactful community partnerships.

A Personal Note from Cole Larkins

I joined IHA as the Frederick County Property Manager just over a year ago, bringing with me a diverse background in property and portfolio management, residential mortgage finance, and entrepreneurship. Following a pivotal moment in my life in late 2021, I chose to leave a successful career in Baltimore’s finance sector to pursue a path that aligned more deeply with my faith and values—a path focused on uplifting others and creating meaningful change.

This journey led me to IHA, where I have found profound fulfillment in serving our community and advancing our mission of affordable housing and homeownership.

Celebrating the New Homeownership Program

For more than a decade, IHA’s purchase & repair program has been a cornerstone of affordable homeownership in our region. In 2024, we have worked to sustain the availability of USDA-funded direct loans while also broadening our lending capacity within USDA guidelines. These efforts are designed to expand the scope of our services, ensuring we meet the evolving needs of our communities. We very much look forward to our continued facilitation of USDA loans in 2025.

We are also thrilled to announce a new initiative aimed at pairing households with community banks, lenders, and other resources outside the scope of USDA funding. This expansion reflects our commitment to empowering families with diverse financing options and creating pathways to sustainable homeownership.

Community Partnerships

Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. A special thanks to Danielle Adams of the Frederick County Building Industry Association for her invaluable support in fostering connections with local financial institutions. Dani’s efforts, alongside those of our community partners, have been instrumental in advancing affordable homeownership. We also extend our gratitude to the following community partners and their team members:

Woodsboro Bank: Richard Ohnmacht, Thomas Ramsay, and Erin E. Dietrich

Patriot Federal Credit Union: Tricia Wareham

Sandy Spring Bank: Kelly Vita and Houston Darling

ACNB: Art Rathell

Nymeo Federal Credit Union: Gwen Farrell, Marie Zinnert, and Jason Ambrose

MLend: Chuck Via

Building the Future

Looking ahead, we are excited about the opportunities for new housing developments and deeper collaborations with regional nonprofits who share our mission of affordable homeownership. Technological advancements are also driving our efforts, as we fully integrate Salesforce and AI into our administrative processes to better serve our clients and community.

An Entire Team Effort – Thank You Team!

Our success reflects the dedication and collaboration of our incredible team:

Program Leadership & Team: I am grateful for the guidance of Jodie Ostoich, our President and CEO, Rachel Gardner, our Programs and Grants Director, and Lacy Allen, our Financial Health and Digital Engagement Manager. Their leadership inspires our mission and fuels our success particularly in the homeownership program.

Finance Leadership & Team: A special thank-you to Anna Rini and her exceptional team for their expertise and support throughout my transition into the homeownership program.

Technical Assistance Partners: Frank Datillo and Jill Lordan of NeighborGood Partners have provided invaluable expert guidance, helping us navigate and strengthen our programs.

Property Management Leadership & Team: Crystal Thomas and her team have done an outstanding job at the Residences at Railroad Square in Brunswick, MD, ensuring families have a beautiful place to call home. Their hard work and collaboration have helped me grow and thrive at IHA.

A Season of Gratitude

As I celebrate my first anniversary at IHA, which I marked on November 14, 2024, I feel immense pride and gratitude for the work we have accomplished together. This year has been a true labor of love, and I look forward to the continued growth and impact we will achieve in the years ahead.

From all of us at IHA, we wish you a happy, healthy, safe, and prosperous holiday season and new year.

Warm regards,

Cole Larkins

Homeownership Program Manager

Financial Freedom Bootcamp – December 2024

lames@interfaithhousing.org (Lacy Ames) — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 00:22:02 GMT

Are you ready to take charge of your finances and kickstart 2025 with confidence? Starting this January, the Financial Freedom Bootcamp offers a practical, hands-on workshop designed to help you master budgeting, grow your savings, reduce debt, and set achievable financial goals. This program is perfect for anyone looking to make smarter money decisions and build a brighter financial future.

The Financial Freedom Bootcamp was developed to revitalize our previous program, Prescription for Financial Health, which was offered via Facebook groups during the onset of COVID. In its earlier format, the workshop operated in person over three months with small working groups. This updated program condenses the same valuable knowledge into a shorter time frame, making it m ore accessible and efficient. Additionally, the new format brings clients back together for hands-on activities and in-person conversations, creating a more engaging and interactive learning experience. Whether you’re new to financial literacy or revisiting your goals, the Bootcamp is a fresh, modern way to take charge of your finances.

The Bootcamp begins with Part 1, the Budget & Savings Workshop, held in person on January 8th, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Part 2, the Optional Credit Café Workshop, will be held virtually on Zoom on January 15th, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Part 3, the Debt Reduction & Goal Setting Workshop, returns in person on January 15th, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Finally, Part 4 is a 6-Month Progress Meeting, held virtually on Zoom at a time that works for you, where you’ll review your progress and update your financial plans.

Participants in the Bootcamp will gain valuable skills to create and stick to personalized budgets, discover strategies to save effectively, master techniques for debt reduction, and set meaningful financial goals. Plus, everyone will receive a toolkit of worksheets, apps, and virtual resources to keep them on track long after the workshop ends.

Registration is required and is completed entirely online. To secure your spot, contact Lacy Allen by emailing Lames@interfaithhousing.org or calling/texting 301-818-5606. Spots are limited, so don’t miss this opportunity to transform your financial future. Get ready to take control of your finances and start 2025 on the right foot!

Winter Newsletter Grant Updates

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 00:16:53 GMT

Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) is proud to announce 6 funding awards received this quarter from community partners.

In August 2024, IHA was awarded a grant by the Ausherman Family Foundation. This 2:1 matching grant will match up to $30,000 in donations raised from community members and IHA’s Board of Directors during our 2024 annual appeal. Funds will support the full range of IHA’s services and programming.

In September 2024, IHA was awarded a $30,000 Technical Assistance Grant (TAG) by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). This grant supports the continued rehabilitation of IHA’s Weinberg House. This 23-unit affordable rental community in Frederick, MD was originally built in 1994 and houses senior members of our community ages 62 and older with low to moderate income. The rehabilitation project includes upgrades to heating, appliances, plumbing, drywall, flooring, lighting, cabinets, and countertops.

In October 2024, IHA received a $1,722 donor-advised grant from T. Rowe Price. These unrestricted funds will support all of IHA’s endeavors in strengthening the communities we serve.

In November 2024, IHA was awarded a $125,000 grant by Morgan Stanley. This grant supports IHA in its ongoing quest to create and provide affordable housing opportunities for LMI community members. It also allows IHA to continue supporting community members through our Financial Dignity and Empowerment Services, which offer individualized and group programming through workshops and access to homeownership opportunities.

IHA also received two funding awards in support of its Credit Café program. IHA’s $10,000 application to participate in United Way of Frederick County’s Annual Unity Campaign was approved. This approval will enable IHA to participate in the Spring 2025 Unity Campaign alongside other local nonprofit organizations to collectively raise funds in the Frederick County community. IHA also received a $1,300 Community Grant from the Rotary Club of Carroll Creek (RCCC). Credit Café promotes financial stability among LMI households through group credit education and free, individualized credit advising. Participants partner with a financial coach to create a strategic plan to either build, boost, or improve their report.

December 2024 Newsletter End of Year Campaign Article

jostoich@interfaithhousing.org (Jodie Ostoich) — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 00:09:38 GMT

In 2024 you can’t read an online article, turn on the evening news or pick up a newspaper without headlines screaming that housing is not affordable. This used to be the rally cry of affordable housing advocates everywhere. But as inflation, interest rates and lack of housing inventory begin to impact middle America, housing affordability is having a moment in our collective consciousness.

In 2024 Maryland families need to earn $36.70 per hour to afford a two bedroom apartment. If they earn minimum wage, they must work 98 hours per week to afford that same two bedroom. In Frederick County Maryland, families must earn between $28.46-$48.08 per hour to affording housing in their zip code.

It is this kind of data that drives the mission of Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA). We seek to strengthen communities by providing affordable housing opportunities for seniors, working families and individuals. IHA currently has 528 new affordable homes in construction and will be available in the fall of 2024 and in 2025. It is our joy to serve others with this much needed housing.

We invite you to join us in this work by giving during our year end campaign which kicked off on November 1 ^st . Each dollar donated is being matched by $2, thanks to our sponsors. IHA has raised $60,000 in matching sponsorship funds and our goal is to raise $30,000 more in donations. Please consider supporting this important work.

IHA has community investment tax credits to give to donors that have a Maryland tax liability. To qualify you must donate $500 or more. Tax credits can be issued for 50% of your donation. For example, if you give $500 then you could receive $250 in tax credits. In addition, you can claim the full amount of the donation as a charitable deduction. That would be $500 for the deduction, $250 in tax credits. You can double dip on your Maryland Tax return!

To partake in these tax credits please write CITC on your donation check of $500 or greater. If giving on the IHA website, please send me an email so that we can get working on your tax credit documents at once. jostoich@interfaithhousing.org .

You can go here to make your tax deductible donation: IHA

To read more about Maryland Community Investment Tax Credits: DHCD Dashboard .

Thank you for partnering with IHA in this life impacting work!

September 2024 Newsletter End of Year Campaign Article

jostoich@interfaithhousing.org (Jodie Ostoich) — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 23:48:04 GMT

Learn how to support us in 2025!

We invite you to join us in this work by giving during our year end campaign which kicks off on November 1st. Each dollar donated is being matched by $2, thanks to our sponsors. IHA has raised $60,000 in matching sponsorship funds and our goal is to raise $30,000 more in donations. Please consider supporting this important work.

If you would like to learn more about this work or discuss a donation, please reach out to our President, Jodie Ostoich at jostoich@interfaithhousing.org .

Please click on the images below to expand and learn more about these housing statistics.

Purchase Repair Program Testimonial

jostoich@interfaithhousing.org (Jodie Ostoich) — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 23:37:41 GMT

“My experience working with Gabriel and the IHA team has been a good journey. My sons and I have learned how to do some home repairs and home improvements, and the oldest is now inspired to learn more and do home improvement and repair work. Gabriel has been a great teacher, very inspirational and supportive, and just wonderful.”

On July 12, 2024, a 14-year journey and dream of owning a home became a reality for LaShonda. On that day, we were with her as she received the keys to her new home. It’s truly a blessing to see how the team and IHA, with their diligent and selfless efforts, was a part of this dream come true for LaShonda.

But that day wasn’t the destination. It was the beginning of a new journey for LaShonda and her sons. Now for the fun part: the repair list. There were quite a few items that needed to be addressed before LaShonda could finally call it “home.” The list ranged from a replacement water heater to items as small as nail pops in the ceiling throughout the home. Here is where the skills of our construction manager, Gabriel Jimenez, were brought to bear. He oversaw her choice of contractors, along with spending time with LaShonda and her sons showing them how to do basic home repairs. Her oldest son took on the task of spackling throughout the home, while her younger son came behind and sanded and painted. He also learned how to install battery powered smoke detectors and a new closet door track. Her older son also learned to caulk and even installed an anti-tip bracket behind the stove. He even replaced the toilet valve flap in the tank on his own. Gabriel, later received a text from LaShonda saying “Anthony (her older son) is really inspired to do home improvement now!”

But wait there’s more…

On August 24, JAM (Jesus Alive Ministries) in Waynesboro brought their “S.W.E.A.T” team volunteers to LaShonda’s home, and, with LaShonda and her son, replaced deck boards, build steps for the deck, replaced an exterior door and even spread over 60 bags of fill dirt to properly grade the side of her home.

Now we’re in the final stages! With help from Gabriel, the S.W.E.A.T team, and LaShonda, a significant amount of money was saved which now allows LaShonda to tackle the last big item on her list; Flooring for the kitchen. She and Gabriel shopped and 3 different stores until she found the type that she liked best. Floor and Décor in Gaithersburg was the winner!!

Here’s what LaShonda had to say about her experience so far:

One of the greatest things we can provide to a family is inspiration and mentorship and IHA brought that to LaShonda and her sons.

Supportive support service experience

jostoich@interfaithhousing.org (Jodie Ostoich) — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 23:35:26 GMT

By Alyssa Morris

I have loved my experience being a supportive support coordinator. I love interacting with all tenants, especially the ones at Washington Square Apartments. My experience interacting with the events committee is always the best. I also interact with a tenant from Washington square apartments every Tuesday while I am there, and I help her with phone, and she likes to talk about bingo which she loves so I don’t mind talking about it with her. This tenant does not have family members. She also doesn’t have very many friends. I can help her with any paperwork, technological help she needs that makes sure she can continue to live in income-based housing. I like to plan events for the tenants at all properties so all the kids/adults can have fun. I also like to make sure there is some type of educational thing they can learn each month.

Credit Cafe at Oakwood Family Homes

lames@interfaithhousing.org (Lacy Ames) — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 23:33:21 GMT

Empowering Homeownership: Oakwood Residents Take Charge of Their Financial Futures

Earlier this summer, I had the pleasure of visiting Oakwood Family Homes at the invitation of Vickie Mills, the Supportive Services Coordinator, to lead the Credit Café Workshop. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect—many residents are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to purchase the homes they currently rent, with homeownership on the horizon in the next few years. With that dream in mind, understanding credit became a top priority, and that’s where I stepped in to share my expertise.

The workshop was a hit! Over half of the residents turned out, eager to dive into a one-hour group session packed with practical insights. The energy in the room was palpable as participants asked thoughtful questions about how credit impacts their financial futures, especially when it comes to buying a home. But the learning didn’t stop there. The following week, I sat down with each resident for personalized, one-on-one credit report reviews. Together, we explored how they could use their newfound knowledge to boost their credit scores and take strides toward their financial dreams.

Adding to the excitement, Vickie Mills and Oakwood Resident Council President, West Parker, were on hand to address additional questions, offering insights into what’s needed and the timeline for making those homeownership dreams a reality.

This workshop was just the beginning. With more financial and homeownership education on the way, the residents of Oakwood Family Homes are on a powerful journey toward greater financial stability. They’re gaining the tools and confidence to make informed decisions about their finances, their future homes, and beyond!

Fall Newsletter Grant Updates

jostoich@interfaithhousing.org (Jodie Ostoich) — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 23:25:44 GMT

Here's a recap for grants received over the past quarter

Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) is proud to announce three funding awards received this quarter from community partners.

In July 2024, IHA was awarded a $5,000 grant by The Natelli Communities Charitable Fund of The Community Foundation of Frederick County. This grant served as a sponsorship for IHA Day on July 11, 2024, which celebrates the anniversary of our founding day on July 11, 1990. This sponsorship grant helped IHA exceed its fundraising goal of $8,000 to reach $11,490.29 on IHA Day. These unrestricted funds will support IHA’s work across the multiple counties served by our programs and affordable rental communities.

In August 2024, IHA was awarded a $25,000 grant by the Rural Maryland Council (RMC). The Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Fund (MAERDAF) grant program will support IHA’s Purchase-Repair Homeownership Program (PRP). PRP provides low- and very low-income households with affordable homeownership opportunities in rural areas of Frederick, Carroll, and Washington Counties in Maryland. The program also provides one-on-one housing counseling and financial coaching families and individuals throughout their journey to homeownership.

IHA was also awarded a $34,000 grant by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). The Maryland Housing Counseling Fund (MHCF) grant program will support IHA’s Financial Dignity & Empowerment Services, which represents the full spectrum of community programming we offer, including: group educational workshops on financial health and becoming a homeowner; individualized financial coaching and housing counseling; and a pathway to homeownership.

Path To Home Ownership

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 17:07:26 GMT

Meet Our Newest Participant of Our Purchase Repair Homeownership Program

My homeownership journey started 14 years ago. I always wanted to own my own home, but I had barriers such as poor credit score, collections, high student loan debt and debt to income ratio issues. I moved from Michigan to Maryland in 2012, and I met Carol Riggles and learned about the Purchase Repair Program in 2015.

I attended various workshops sponsored by IHA and I learned how to clean up my credit, reduce debt, budget and spend better . I worked on those areas over the years which led to me maintaining a good credit score in the s even h undreds for the past few years now. I also had situations while renting with 2 different owners not paying property taxes causing the houses to foreclose . T he final situation with the place I was renting last , the owner was selling the triplex house without notifying the tenants, and the new owners rais ed the rent by $480 a month if I continued residing there . They would n ot be extending my month to month lease more than 2 months after my lease expired .

Since I knew my credit history and debt improved, and I still desired to have my own home, I reached out to Carol again in October 2023, and participated with the Purchase Repair Program and finally one of my biggest dreams and goals came true being able to purchase and own a home in July 2024. This journey has been long worth it. I hope and pray this inspires others not to give up on their home ownership dream.

If you know someone who has faced similar challenges, please share with them information about our

Purchase-Repair Homeownership Program.

Summer Grant Awards Recap

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 13:15:10 GMT

IHA is proud to announce four funding awards received this quarter from community partners.

In February 2024, IHA was awarded a $25,000 grant by the Kahlert Foundation. This grant supports the continued rehabilitation of IHA’s Weinberg House. IHA’s 23-unit affordable rental community in Frederick, MD was originally built in 1994 and houses senior members of our community ages 62 and older with low to moderate income. The rehabilitation project includes upgrades to heating, appliances, plumbing, drywall, flooring, lighting, cabinets, and countertops.

IHA was also awarded a $7,500 grant from the City of Frederick through the Community Promotion Grant program. This grant supports aging in place and youth development needs among City residents through IHA’s Supportive Services. The program serves residents of IHA’s senior and multi-family affordable rental communities at 222 Broadway Street (Weinberg House) and 520 N. Market Street, respectively. It also serves residents of Conifer’s multi-family affordable rental community at 16 Steiner Way (Sinclair Way).

In April 2024, IHA was awarded a $30,000 Community Partnership Grant from Frederick County Government. This grant supports IHA’s full range of Financial Dignity and Empowerment Services, including the Purchase-Repair Homeownership Program and IHA’s three workshop series: Credit Café; Your Prescription for Financial Health; and Ready, Set, Go… Home! The Purchase-Repair Program provides an avenue to homeownership for those who otherwise would not qualify for a traditional home loan. In Credit Café, participants receive personalized assistance in improving their credit. Your Prescription for Financial Health helps participants learn about budgeting, saving, asset-building, and healthy spending. Ready, Set, Go… Home! walks participants through the entire homebuying process from start to finish.

IHA also received a $7,500 Turn Key Project Grant from the Home Builders Care Foundation (HBCF). This grant supports IHA’s rehabilitation of Weinberg House specifically by funding the renovation of the community’s fencing. HBCF’s grant program is designed to assist nonprofit organizations with smaller scale construction needs that are shelter-focused, serve vulnerable populations, and show local community support.

The Gang’s All Here – In Their Own Home!

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 13:10:52 GMT

Meet the Meisels, IHA’s latest Purchase Repair Homeownership Program Homeowners.

Megan and Benjamin recently shared what this opportunity has meant for them.

“ Our family is so grateful to have been able to work with IHA in finding our first home. Prior to finding IHA, our search for a home to buy had felt discouraging and disheartening. IHA made it possible for us to find a home that suited our needs and wants for our growing family. We have received education on how to handle finances, what it means to be a homeowner, and how to physically care for our home. 

Because of IHA our three young children have the backyard of their dreams. We were able to bring our baby daughter home to our very own house. We are able to teach our children about the value of homeownership and investing energy into a home. We are blessed to continue to benefit from the compassion, support, and guidance IHA has given our family. ”

June is National Homeownership Month

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 13:06:08 GMT

June is National Homeownership Month

Homeownership means more than just a safe, comfortable place to come home to, it is oftentimes the only way for a low-income household to build wealth. And not just for the immediate household, but for the future generations that will inherit that wealth.

For example, one of our clients purchased a home in November 2019 and could sell it today for $166,000 more than she paid for it. That is a gain (non-taxed income) of about $36,889 per year. A remarkable return for a single mom with 6 children earning just $50,000 a year.

However, some would say that there are better ways to increase wealth, for example by investing in stocks and bonds, which historically do show a higher return than the growth in home prices. What is being ignored is that low-income households can’t afford to buy stocks and bonds in addition to paying for housing – one of our basic needs. Others suggest that renting may be a better choice without stopping to realize that unless the landlord intends to lose money, renters pay for 100% of the costs of ownership plus a percentage of profit to the owner of the rental unit (not-for-profit owners like IHA excluded).

What homeownership offers is a way to keep some, or as in the case mentioned earlier , all of their homeownership costs as part of their overall net worth. It is a form of forced saving – the family needs to pay for housing, so why not build your net worth instead of your landlord’s net worth.

Of course, homeownership includes maintenance and repairs, but so do rentals, so again, these costs are also reflected in the rent a landlord charges. Because home maintenance and repairs can be expensive

and IHA wants its clients to be able to afford living in the home they purchase for many, many years, our homeownership program strives to teach basic maintenance and repairs to our program participants.

Learning how to take care of a home builds confidence through knowledge that some things don’t require a contractor such as power washing decks, caulking and painting, cleaning gutters, repairing driveway surfaces, patching settlement cracks and dents in drywall, rehanging closet doors, replacing screens, etc. In addition, for those repairs that do require licensed contractors, we teach our clients how to solicit and compare estimates, choose the right contractor and make sure the work and price agreed upon is in writing.

Most of IHA’s homeownership clients are first generation, meaning the first in their family to purchase a home.

To learn more visit: www.interfaithhousing.org/purchase-repair-homeownership

Revitalizing Financial Literacy: IHA’s Blended Credit Café Workshop

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 12:58:09 GMT

Revitalizing Financial Literacy: IHA’s Blended Credit Café Workshop

Since 2016, Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) has been empowering community members through the Credit Café, a program designed to enhance financial literacy and credit management. The Credit Café offers a comprehensive approach, blending education with strategic credit goal setting to help participants improve, maintain, or enhance their credit scores while reducing overall debt burdens.

Initially, the program operated entirely in person. However, the COVID-19 pandemic in spring 2020 forced IHA to pivot to a virtual format. After a brief hiatus, the Credit Café relaunched online in July 2020. The virtual workshop was structured in three phases to provide a more in-depth and supportive virtual experience:

1. Educational Workshop: This initial phase consists of a one-hour group session offered multiple times each month throughout the year. Participants explore a wide range of topics covering the fundamentals of credit mechanisms and best practices for credit upkeep.

2. Personalized Credit Report Review: Following the group workshop, participants engage in a tailored 30-minute one-on-one session with an advisor, conducted virtually via Zoom within one week of the group session. During this session, advisors help participants understand their credit reports and set credit-related goals aligned with their future financial aspirations. Each participant receives a complimentary copy of their tri-merged credit report, freshly pulled on the day of the event to ensure the most current information for this individualized meeting.

3. Continued Support: The Credit Café Workshop provides ongoing assistance beyond the initial workshop. The advisor remains accessible for follow-ups via email, phone, or text ensuring participants have the resources to sustain their credit journey and monitor progress. Participants are invited back for a follow-up advising session 6 months after their initial credit review to receive an updated credit report and review progress.

Over the past year, Lacy Allen, the Credit Café Program Manager, has introduced a blended option, combining in-person group workshops with virtual personalized credit report reviews. This hybrid approach caters to those who thrive better in an in-person setting while maintaining the convenience and efficiency of virtual consultations.

The blended option was first introduced with the Housing Authority of the City of Frederick at their Lucas Village Community Room. Partnering with local organizations has proven beneficial in multiple ways: reducing administrative work for IHA, increasing participant numbers, and providing trusted local contacts to assist with registration and reminders.

Following the success of the initial blended workshops, other organizations such as CORE, the Arc of Frederick County, Brunswick Public Library, C. Burr Artz Public Library, and IHA apartment/townhome communities have adopted this model. This approach allows more organizations to bring the educational portion of the Credit Café directly to their clients or staff.

If you or your organization have a group of individuals who could benefit from learning about credit in an in-person setting, reach out to Lacy Allen at lames@interfaithhousing.org or text 301-818-5606 to explore how the blended Credit Café Workshop can work for you!

Join us in promoting financial empowerment and stability through the Credit Café Workshop, now more accessible than ever!

Building Strong Communities: The Impact of Supportive Services

jostoich@interfaithhousing.org (Jodie Ostoich) — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 14:06:00 GMT

IHA is committed to building strong communities. One way we do this is by offering supportive services to tenants in our communities. Below are two success stories directly from our supportive services staff.

April McLaurin, Supportive Services Coordinator, Franklin County, PA Properties

Working with a senior resident after the passing of her spouse as a service support coordinator is why I enjoy what I do by providing so much more than resources. The resident was at a low point in her life, and I was able to help her navigate those challenges that come by providing our services. With this situation not only were we able to offer much needed emotion support but many other resources. We aided with calls, public assistance benefits, rental/utility resources along with food and in home care. Being able to provide her with this help allowed her time to grieve properly for her own health while being able to attend to much needed business. The result is the resident being financially stable again while living each day knowing she has the support of our staff. This tenant is grateful for our services and support and is happy to remind us of this often.

Sandra Delph, Supportive Services Coordinator, Frederick & Carroll Counties, MD

I have a senior resident that recently had some major health issues. The resident’s sister contacted me, with the resident’s permission, to discuss her needs and get some resources that may help her sister. We discussed the possibility of getting her a life alert in case of an emergency because the resident lives alone. The sister did get her one. The resident now attends an adult day program twice a week as well. I have weekly contact with the resident to check up on her as well as to find out if there are any other resources or needs that she may need. The sister will also reach out to me if she has a concern or questions.

The Unity Campaign and the Credit Café: A Perfect Pairing

lames@interfaithhousing.org (Lacy Ames) — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 18:50:36 GMT

Learn More About IHA's Participation In This Year's Unity Campaign!

IHA is proudly participating in the Unity Campaign for Frederick County, running from March 6th to 20th, 2024.

But what exactly is the Unity Campaign?

The Unity Campaign stands as a joint effort, bringing together nonprofit partners, sponsors, and the broader Frederick community in a collaborative donation campaign. This annual event, held every March, operates entirely online, ensuring easy accessibility for all. Moreover, every individual donation made during this campaign goes directly to the nonprofit of your choice. (And we're certainly hoping you'll choose Interfaith Housing Alliance, or "IHA.")

So, why should you consider contributing to the Unity Campaign?

All the participating nonprofits within the campaign provide vital support to ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households. These are families earning incomes above the Federal Poverty Level but still grappling with affording essential household needs such as housing, transportation, childcare, food, and healthcare. Shockingly, the most recent ALICE report discovered that 36% of households in Frederick County, MD fall into this category. This statistic underscores the urgency of our collective support. It's entirely conceivable that someone you know—perhaps a friend, neighbor, or colleague—is part of an ALICE household and could greatly benefit from your generosity.

Curious to delve deeper into ALICE? Follow this link to learn more: https://www.unitedwayfrederick.org/challenge-ALICE

How to Donate? 

There are two ways to donate:  

Visit this website: https://fundraise.givesmart.com/vf/Unity2024/team/InterfaithHousing

Text Unity202418 to 71777 

Can’t donate? No problem, please help spread the word about IHA’s Unity Campaign participation! 

How will IHA utilize Unity Campaign Contributions?

Through the Unity Campaign, donations will directly support IHA's Credit Café Workshop. This workshop operates on a principle of inclusivity, offering its services entirely free of charge to all participants seeking assistance in enhancing their credit scores. With just $67, we can cover the expenses of providing two credit reports per attendee.

How does the Credit Café Workshop by IHA benefit ALICE households?

In today's world, an individual's credit standing influences various aspects of life, whether it's renting an apartment, applying for loans, seeking employment, or managing utility services. The Credit Café Workshop equips participants with invaluable knowledge to effect lasting, positive changes in their credit and financial decision-making. These changes empower participants to attain greater financial stability for themselves and their families, enabling them to access better housing, secure loans at lower interest rates, and pursue improved job opportunities. Most importantly, the transformative impact of the Credit Café Workshop mitigates the necessity for ALICE households to constantly confront difficult financial choices concerning their day-to-day expenses.

During the last fiscal year, July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023, IHA served 145 individuals whose average yearly household income was approximately $33,795. To date in this fiscal year, July 2023 – June 2024, IHA has already served 79 individuals whose average yearly household income is approximately $36,652.

How does the Credit Café Workshop operate?

The Credit Café Workshop offers a comprehensive approach, blending education with strategic credit goal setting to aid participants in improving, maintaining, or enhancing their credit scores while reducing overall debt burdens. The workshop unfolds in two key phases:

Educational Workshop: This initial phase consists of a one-hour group session offered multiple times each month throughout the year. Participants delve into a wide range of topics covering the fundamentals of credit mechanisms and best practices for its upkeep.

Personalized Credit Report Review: Following the group workshop, participants engage in a tailored 30-minute one-on-one session with an advisor, conducted virtually within one week of the group workshop. During this session, the advisor assists participants in understanding their credit reports and devising credit-related goals aligned with their future financial aspirations. Each participant receives a complimentary personal copy of their tri-merged credit report, freshly pulled on the day of the event to ensure the most current information for this individualized meeting.

Continued Support: The Credit Café Workshop provides ongoing assistance to participants beyond their initial workshop attendance. Advisors remain accessible to participants as needed, following up via email, phone calls, or text messages based on the participant's preference at 3 and 6-month intervals. These check-ins aim to ensure participants have the necessary resources to sustain their credit journey and to monitor progress. Participants are then invited back for a follow-up advising session and an updated copy of their credit report.

Moreover, the Credit Café Workshop is currently offered entirely in a virtual format, with some hybrid options emerging. Additionally, IHA offers interpretation services at no cost to participants, with interpreters available on-demand in over 240 languages.

Interested in the Credit Café Workshop? Contact Lacy Allen at lames@interfaithhousing.org or text 301-818-5606 to get started today! 

January to March Grant Review

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 18:50:34 GMT

IHA is proud to announce three funding awards received this quarter from community partners.

IHA was awarded two grants to support the development of an affordable rental community in partnership with Conifer, LLC in North Odenton, MD. The first grant of $429,750 was awarded by the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, which is dedicated to meeting the basic needs of people experiencing poverty. The second grant of $400,000 was awarded by Maryland’s Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) through the Community Legacy Program (CLP). This program provides funding for essential projects aimed at strengthening Sustainable Communities.

Both grants will support the creation of affordable housing in Anne Arundel County and provide relief to cost-burdened households. Blue Oaks at North Odenton is a 9% tax credit project located at 1570 Annapolis Road in Odenton, MD and will have 55 apartments.

In January 2024, IHA was also awarded a $25,000 allocation of State tax credits through the Community Investment Tax Credit (CITC) Program of Maryland’s DHCD. Donors who make contributions of $500 or more to IHA in support of our mission are eligible to earn tax credits equal to 50% of the value of the money, goods, or real property contribution. These tax credits are in addition to the deductions on both Federal and State taxes as a result of the charitable contribution.

Please join IHA in welcoming Gabriel Jimenez!

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 18:50:32 GMT

Please join IHA in welcoming Gabriel Jimenez!

At the end of March, IHA will be saying goodbye to a long-time employee, Ron Morris. He is retiring and we wish him the absolute best!

We were incredibly lucky to find someone to take Ron’s place, literally in the nick of time. We knew the position would be ridiculously hard to fill as Ron is a tough act to follow. Like most nonprofit employees, Ron wore many hats, and his construction knowledge and experience is so extensive that we were sure he was virtually irreplaceable.

But then Ron recommended Gabriel Jimenez and we are glad he did! Gabriel has an impressive resume with a wide variety of construction knowledge, and he loves to teach, which will be especially helpful to our Purchase Repair Homeownership Program clients. Gabriel also has a big heart and desire to help others. He has been sharing his time and talent with Waterboyz for Jesus as a member of their SWAT (Servants With A Testimony) team to provide help to community members in need.

In addition to his position as the Construction Manager for the Purchase Repair Homeownership Program, Gabriel will also provide construction oversight for IHA’s partnerships with developers to build multi-family communities. The most recent community broke ground in June and just entered the framing stage. Located in downtown Brunswick, MD, this community (The Residences at Railroad Square) will add 45 more affordable apartments to IHA’s property management portfolio.

But wait, that’s not all! IHA also needs construction management at our completed multi-family communities, and Gabriel will fill this role as well. Weinberg House, IHA’s very first senior apartment community, is currently undergoing extensive remodeling. Tied into this role is the need to forecast and prepare budgets for future capital improvements. A capital improvement is the addition of a permanent structural change or the restoration of some aspect of a property that will either enhance the property's overall value, prolong its useful life, or adapt it to new uses. This skill is outside the role of regular and routine maintenance.

If you are interested in learning more about IHA and/or its new

Construction Manager, Gabriel Jimenez,

please join us anytime between 9:30-11:30 AM on Monday, April 1st.

RSVPs would be appreciated but are not required.

This Meet and Greet will take place at IHA’s

520 N. Market Street Apartments in Frederick.

Please call Carol Riggles at 240-415-9882 for more information.

Welcome New Staff Members

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 19:42:19 GMT

Annual Appeal

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 19:19:12 GMT

2023 Annual Appeal

October to December 2023 Grant Review

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 19:00:52 GMT

October to December 2023 Grant REview

IHA is proud to announce 10 funding awards received this quarter from community partners:

In August 2023, IHA was awarded a $137,938 EmPOWER grant through Maryland State Government’s Multifamily Energy Efficiency and Housing Affordability (MEEHA) Program. IHA was also awarded a $89,812 energy grant through the Frederick County Power Saver Retrofits (PSR) Program. Both of these grants support IHA’s ongoing rehabilitation of Weinberg House, which is a 23-unit affordable rental community in downtown Frederick for low- to moderate-income (LMI) residents aged 62 and older.

In September 2023, IHA was also awarded a $532,500 grant by the United States Department of Agriculture – Rural Development (USDA-RD). This two-year grant provides technical and supervisory assistance that aids low- and very low-income families in carrying out mutual self-help housing efforts. The grant supports IHA’s Purchase-Repair Homeownership Program, which provides affordable homeownership opportunities to families and individuals in Frederick, Carroll, and Washington Counties in Maryland, as well as one-on-one housing counseling and financial coaching throughout their journey to homeownership.

IHA was also awarded a $125,000 grant by Morgan Stanley. This grant supports IHA in its ongoing quest to create and provide affordable housing opportunities for LMI community members. It also allows IHA to continue supporting community members through our Financial Dignity and Empowerment Services, which offer individualized and group programming, including IHA’s workshops, Purchase-Repair Homeownership program, and supportive services for residents of our affordable rental communities.

The City of Frederick finalized a $7,849 grant for IHA, which was awarded through their Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Public Services program. This award will provide funding for Supportive Services programming for senior residents of IHA’s Weinberg House and 520 N Market Street affordable communities in downtown Frederick.

In October 2023, IHA received a $1,505.69 designated grant from The PNC Homeownership Fund of The Community Foundation of Frederick County. These pass-through funds will directly support LMI households in achieving homeownership in Frederick County.

IHA also received a $400 donor-advised grant from The H. Deets and Juanita Warfield Donor-Advised Fund of The Community Foundation of Frederick County. These unrestricted funds will support all of IHA’s endeavors in strengthening the communities we serve.

In November 2023, IHA was awarded a grant by the Ausherman Family Foundation. This 2:1 matching grant will match up to $30,000 in donations raised from community members and IHA’s Board of Directors during our 2023 annual appeal.

IHA was also awarded a $20,000 grant from Delaplaine Foundation, Inc. This grant supports IHA’s full range of Financial Dignity & Empowerment Services, which are designed to improve financial and housing stability for LMI households. These programs serve seniors, working families, and individuals through: educational workshops; one on-one financial coaching and housing counseling; and connection to affordable housing opportunities and community resources.

Lastly, IHA’s $5,000 application to participate in United Way of Frederick County’s Annual Unity Campaign was approved. This approval will enable IHA to participate in the Spring 2024 Unity Campaign alongside other local nonprofit organizations to collectively raise funds in the Frederick County community.

Homeownership Still Offers Advantages

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 18:51:02 GMT

Homeownership Still Offers Advantages

Despite current challenges in the housing market such as reduced inventory, higher prices and huge increases in mortgage interest rates, becoming a homeowner rather than remaining a renter still offers several advantages and is still a goal for most of IHA’s program participants.

Housing stability is the primary advantage of homeownership. Rents have skyrocketed over the past three years and even with the current rise in the overall inflation rate, the rate of rent increases has surpassed nearly every other cost of living index.

Another economic advantage of homeownership is that the value of a home increases faster than the value of most other savings accounts and with less volatility. Homeownership is the average American’s Number One way to increase their overall net worth.

There are intrinsic advantages as well – privacy, freedom of choice, and civic engagement.

As a homeowner you get to decide who comes over and when, rather than receiving notices from your landlord to enter. Many first-time homebuyers enjoy this new level of privacy after buying a property.

Perhaps the best advantage of homeownership is being able to create a living space that suits you – you can choose everything! The color of the walls, the type of flooring, the light fixtures – everything!

Civic engagement is a fancy way of saying belonging to a community, and becoming a homeowner increases your feeling of belonging. That isn’t to say that renters can’t feel like they belong, but the renters that have a goal of homeownership do feel like they are in a temporary space and don’t have that sense of comfort and belonging that homeownership provides.

If you have the desire to become a homeowner, please contact us so we can help you plan your journey!

February to August 2023 Grant Review

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 15:09:35 GMT

February to August 2023 Grant Review

IHA is proud to announce 7 funding awards received from community partners:

In February 2023, IHA was awarded a $25,000 grant by the Kahlert Foundation. This grant supports the continued rehabilitation of IHA’s Weinberg House. This 23-unit affordable rental community in Frederick, MD was originally built in 1994 and houses senior members of our community ages 62 and older with low to moderate income. The rehabilitation project includes upgrades to heating, appliances, plumbing, drywall, flooring, lighting, cabinets, and countertops.

In April 2023, IHA was awarded a $10,000 Community Partnership Grant from Frederick County Government. This grant supports IHA’s three Financial Dignity and Empowerment Workshops: Credit Café; Your Prescription for Financial Health; and Ready, Set, Go… Home! In Credit Café, participants work specifically on improving their credit. Your Prescription for Financial Health helps participants learn about budgeting, saving, asset-building, and healthy spending. Ready, Set, Go… Home! helps participants understand the homebuying process from start to finish.

Between April and July 2023, IHA received three funding awards in support of its Credit Café program. IHA’s partnership agreement with United Way of Frederick County and The Prosperity Center was renewed twice, providing $15,000 in support of continued program operations. IHA also received a $3,000 Service Partnership Grant awarded by the Rotary Club of Frederick. Credit Café promotes financial stability among LMI households through group credit education and free, individualized credit advising. Participants partner with a certified financial coach to create a strategic plan to build, boost, or improve their credit.

In June 2023, IHA was awarded a $7,360 grant from the City of Frederick through their Community Promotions Grant program. This grant supports aging in place and youth development needs among City residents through IHA’s Supportive Services. The program serves residents of IHA’s senior and multi-family affordable rental communities at 222 Broadway Street (Weinberg House) and 520 N. Market Street, respectively. It also serves residents of Conifer’s multi-family affordable rental community at 16 Steiner Way (Sinclair Way).

IHA was also awarded in June a $43,000 grant from Enterprise Community Partners. This Section 4 capacity building grant supports succession planning for a critical position at IHA, the Director of Construction. With the current Director of Construction retiring at the end of this year, this funding award will be instrumental in supporting his replacement. It gives IHA the opportunity to plan for a smooth transition and adequate training for the new employee, ensuring our programs and community initiatives continue with high quality, uninterrupted service delivery.

Information and Guidance Being Offered to Brunswick Renters

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 15:00:38 GMT

Information and Guidance being offered to Brunswick Renters in Preparation for the Opening of Railroad Square

IHA’s Financial Health and Digital Engagement Manager, Lacy Allen, and Homeownership Program Manager, Carol Riggles, are reaching out to the approximately 47% of renters (450 households) in Brunswick, MD that are cost-burdened by their rent (paying more than 30% of their gross household income), to provide financial education and counseling with a focus on building assets, reducing debt, and improving credit. We have two primary goals: 1) that the knowledge gained results in measurable money management improvements and 2) that program participants will have achieved their goal of finding and qualifying for affordable rental housing or affordable homeownership opportunities within one year or less. (Perfect timing to become eligible for Railroad Square!)

We understand that community investment is not limited to building infrastructure and creating jobs, it also includes providing the citizens who make up that community with the knowledge and resources they need to improve their financial status and thereby empowering them to become economically self-sufficient. IHA’s strategy is to do what we do best – create and maintain affordable housing opportunities and teach and guide the people we work with to set and then attain their housing and financial goals.

If you are interested in this help and guidance, or know someone who might benefit from our services, please contact Lacy and Carol at info@interfaithhousing.org Subject line: Brunswick.

The Residences at Railroad Square Groundbreaking

jostoich@interfaithhousing.org (Jodie Ostoich) — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 14:50:26 GMT

The Residences at Railroad Square Groundbreaking

June 29, 2023, was a blistering hot and humid day. Not even the weather could dampen the excitement that buzzed inside the Steadman-Keenan America Legion Post 96 in Brunswick Maryland. The crowd gathered that day were celebrating nearly six years of collective efforts to make The Residences at Railroad Square a reality.

Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater writes in her August 3rd newsletter:

“This month, we celebrated the official groundbreaking of The Residences at Railroad Square in the City of Brunswick! This project is incredible and would not have been possible without dedicated, creative partnerships. Railroad Square will bring 45 households to downtown Brunswick and is already helping to revitalize this entire city block right at the entry to the City from the C&O Canal. Our administration is proud to be a partner in this project and is committed to making housing more attainable and affordable.”

Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) is the nonprofit partner and owner. IHA will be providing property management services and supportive services to the residents of The Residences at Railroad Square.

Construction is expected to be completed in August 2024. Marketing and leasing activities will begin in April 2024. Please keep checking this location for updates: Rental Communities | Interfaith Housing Alliance

Pictured Left to Right: Bruce Zavos, architect; CJ Tyree-Developer; Ed Simms-DHCD; Jessica Fitzwater-Frederick County Executive; Nicholas Redding-Preservation Maryland; Nathan Brown-Mayor of City of Brunswick

IHA Staff and Board Members Pictured Left to Right: Wakeena Jackson-IHA Board Member; Jessica Eaton, Brenda Genemans-Staff Accountant; Nyanso Diggs-Staff Accountant; Vivian Duran-Housing Specialist; Crystal Thomas-Regional Property Manager; Lacy Allen-Credit Café Program Manager; Jodie Ostoich-CEO; Vickie Major-Director of Property Management Operations; Vickie Mills-Property Management Assistant; Mark Long-former IHA Board Member

IHA Celebrated Purchase Repair Homeownership in June!

lames@interfaithhousing.org (Lacy Ames) — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 14:34:38 GMT

IHA Celebrated Purchase Repair Homeownership in June!

During June's National Homeownership Month, IHA's Purchase Repair Homeownership Program commemorated the occasion by organizing an event at the downtown Frederick library. The program's comprehensive approach, which combines assistance for purchasing with support for repairs, underscores its unwavering commitment to ensuring that individuals and families not only attain homeownership but also possess the means to uphold and enhance their residences over the long term. This type of initiative plays a role in fostering both housing stability and stronger communities.

In conjunction with IHA, the event welcomed a variety of partners including the United Way of Frederick County, USDA – RD, NeighborGood Partners, City of Frederick Housing & Human Services, Frederick County HCD, Long & Foster Realty, Clear Title, LLC, Middletown Valley Bank, and Peace of Mind Home Inspections. This impressive alliance truly illustrates that IHA's Purchase Repair Homeownership program unites a formidable group of collaborators to aid clients in realizing their ultimate aspiration of homeownership.

The effects of this event were deeply felt by partners and clients alike, yielding successes in networking and facilitating initial face-to-face interactions. Their testimonials reflect the positive outcomes of the fair, capturing the essence of their experiences.

Jill from NeighborGood Partners stated “ I think hosting a Homeownership Fair is such a great service to Frederick County! Potential homebuyers can get a lot of different information from one location in a short period of time. There were lots of organizations to learn from and talk to; everyone there was super friendly and ready to help! It was great to be at the Homeownership Fair, hosted by Interfaith Housing Alliance. I have been working with IHA for a long time but hadn’t been able to see their staff in a long time due to COVID. It was great to catch up!”.

Middletown Valley Bank stated “ Middletown Valley Bank is appreciative to Interfaith Housing Alliance for including us in the June Homeownership Event. We believe that access to affordable housing programs such as IHA’s Purchase-Repair Homeownership Program are vital to the wellbeing of our communities. The June Home Ownership Event highlighted the importance of inclusion and financial education, as attendees were given the opportunity to learn more about the entire homeownership process, not just the homebuying process.”

Joyce of United way of Frederick County stated “It was great connecting with potential clients, some of whom I had connected with via phone. I especially liked that they were able to connect with several organizations at the same time and get their questions answered on the spot. They also learned how some of the organizations present work together. It was great meeting colleagues from other organizations I only knew by name, via phone, or met on a virtual meeting and learning more about their programs.”

Michelle, PRP Client, stated “It was great finally connecting to organizations and individuals face to face instead of behind a computer for the first time in almost 3 years of working with IHA!”

Another PRP Client stated “I didn’t know if homeownership was even possible and I’ve heard about IHA’s Purchase Repair program so many times but was apprehensive. Finally meeting staff face to face and asking the important questions helped me feel more confident that I COULD pursue my lifelong dream of homeownership!”

Another Partner stated “It was nice to finally meet and network with the partners involved in the entire Purchase Repair process who I’ve only heard of or communicated with over the phone. I hope IHA does this again in the future.”

Due to the previous successes and interest, IHA will be hosting a second homeownership fair on Monday, October 2nd at 5 – 8pm at the C. Burr Arts Public Library located at 110 E. Patrick Street Frederick, MD 21701. In addition to a homeownership fair, IHA is bringing an in-person Credit Café Workshop to occur during the fair as well! To RSVP and get the most up-to-date information as its available, complete this form: https://forms.office.com/r/9mxVwppciQ

Language Services Available!

lames@interfaithhousing.org (Lacy Ames) — Tue, 15 Aug 2023 19:01:04 GMT

Spring 2023 Grant Review

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 16:12:53 GMT

Spring 2023 Grant Review

IHA is proud to announce 2 funding awards received this past quarter from community partners.

In December 2022, IHA received a $250 Fidelity Charitable Donor-Advised Fund grant from the Mark E. and Suzanne L. Friis Fund. These unrestricted funds will support IHA’s work across the multiple counties served through our programs and affordable rental communities.

IHA also received a $2500 donor-advised grant from The Croteau Family Charitable Gift Fund held at T. Rowe Price Charitable. These funds will support IHA’s operations and programming, giving IHA the opportunity to continue both its work with individuals and its systems work to impact our whole community. community as a whole .

Planning for Financial Success: Spending (Your Tax Refund) Wisely

lames@interfaithhousing.org (Lacy Ames) — Tue, 28 Feb 2023 15:57:48 GMT

Planning for Future Financial Success:

Spending (Your Tax Refund) Wisely

April is National Financial Literacy Month!

This is a fantastic reminder to check in on our financial situation and enhance our skills. April is also the perfect time to discuss finances as it overlaps with the tax season and many individuals receive a tax refund. Are you unsure what to do with those extra dollars you are receiving? Then look no further. Below you will find some helpful tips/suggestions on planning for future financial success through spending wisely.

IHA will be hosting the first of a three-part webinar series in April to discuss this topic in further detail. Please read to the end to see how to sign up for this free resource!

Reducing Debts

The first place to consider spending your tax refund wisely is to pay down your debts, especially credit card balances. Credit card interest rates have been climbing quickly over the past year and reducing these expenses could result in easier and faster savings for future financial goals or to establish an emergency savings account. High credit card balances have a negative impact on your credit score. Lowering your credit card balances to 30% or less of your total credit limit will improve your credit score. Having a better credit score could open many more opportunities for you in the future, whether it’s being qualified to rent an apartment or being eligible for the best interest rate on a loan. The quickest way to see all your credit card debts in one place is to pull a copy of your credit report. There are free options online, or you could attend an IHA Credit Café Workshop for free too.

Trying to pay off debt can be overwhelming, but there are strategies that can help. There are two well-known approaches to reducing your debt known as the ‘snowball method’ and the ‘avalanche method’ which each have their own set of pros and cons. One isn’t any better than the other, so you will want to review each method to see which one would better motivate you to reduce your debts.  

Snowball Method – This method is where you start by paying off the smallest of your balances as quickly as possible. Then with that bill paid off, you can use the money you were spending on that bill and put it towards the credit card that now has the smallest balance. You would continue this process until all your credit cards are paid off. This method may provide quicker successes with paying off the smaller balances early, while waiting to tackle the bigger ones. This sense of accomplishment might be the motivation you need to keep going.  
Avalanche Method - This method would require you to know the account balances and their associated interest rates. The first account you would pay off would be the one with the highest interest rate, regardless of the amount you owe. Like the snowball method, once that account is paid off, you would move onto the account with the next highest interest rate. This method should help you pay less overtime since you address the higher interest rates, however if the account with the highest interest rate is also your highest balance, it may take longer to see results and feel that sense of accomplishment.

Establishing Credit

Maybe you don’t have credit card debt, which is great, but if the reason is because you don’t have any credit cards, you may want to set aside about $500-$600 of your tax refund to establish new credit. We recommend doing this for two reasons – having and managing your current credit properly are the best and easiest ways to increase your credit score! And, as mentioned above, a good credit score can open doors to financial opportunities. Plus, having some available credit can be a lifesaver when unexpected emergencies occur.

There are two secured credit card offers out there specifically designed to help establish and build credit and they don’t charge an annual fee:

https://www.discover.com/credit-cards/secured/

https://www.capitalone.com/credit-cards/platinum-secured/

If you manage these cards wisely, they will become unsecured after 6-12 months and then you can put the deposit you were required to make initially into your future goals or emergency savings.

It is important not use these cards if at all possible (except for the first small purchase that you make to ensure they are active) because they will have very high interest rates. Remember, you are getting these cards to establish credit – not to use credit!

Eliminate Bank Fees

If you are currently paying bank fees because you haven’t met the minimum deposit or balance requirement, and you don’t want to switch to another bank, use a portion of your tax refund to meet the deposit requirement. I know $5 a month doesn’t seem like much, but it is essentially money thrown away. If you dropped a $5 bill you wouldn’t just walk on by, would you?

Buy in Bulk

If you tend to live paycheck to paycheck and only have enough cash on hand to buy what you need for the week, set aside a portion of your tax refund to help you get out of that cycle.

You are probably already aware that not everything you need from the grocery store is on sale every week. You also know how seldom you see something you do need regularly available at a highly discounted price. By adding a cushion to your grocery budget, you can stock up on sale items!

For example, let’s talk about facial tissues. My 2-person household uses 100 tissues per week. Typically, that box of tissues runs at least $3.00 at the grocery store. However, every once in a while, the same box sells for $1.25 – 4 boxes for $5.00. I can buy an entire year’s worth of tissues for $65 – a $91 savings!

There are lots of products that lend themselves very well to bulk purchasing. Another frequently purchased product instantly comes to mind. Canned soup! I can pay $2.79 per can when not on sale, or I can buy in bulk when on sale for just 99c a can.

If you put $1,200 of your tax refund aside to spend on regularly purchased products when they go on sale, you can easily turn that $1,200 into a $3,600 savings on groceries over the course of a year. The trick is finding places to stash your purchases.

Plan (and Pay) for a Vacation

We all deserve at least one vacation a year, right? But, when money is tight, your vacation may turn into a staycation, or even worse, get postponed another year.

That tax refund could be your literal ticket to someplace else you have always wanted to visit and for less than paying for your vacation by using credit.

By earmarking a specific dollar amount for vacation and then taking the time to research and plan for your trip – you can enjoy your getaway. In fact, you will probably enjoy it even more because you know it is all bought and paid for up front!

With credit rates averaging 20%, a $3,000 vacation could easily end up costing you $375 more dollars in interest, assuming you are paying 1/12 per month ($250) to pay it back. And, it will take 15 months to pay it back, not 12.

Plus, by doing this now, assuming you have been budgeting for an annual vacation, you can now do it every year because next year you will have saved the money you would have been paying every month to pay off that vacation.

"An investment in knowledge pays the best interest."

- Benjamin Franklin

As we mentioned earlier, we will be offering a webinar in April (the first of three planned for 2023) to help you with Planning for Future Financial Success. Please visit https://www.interfaithhousing.org/Financial-Literacy-Webinar-Series to register!

You can also take advantage of the workshops and financial education programs we offer right now. For more information, please visit https://www.interfaithhousing.org/programs

Why Unity Campaign and the Credit Café Go Hand-in-Hand

lames@interfaithhousing.org (Lacy Ames) — Tue, 28 Feb 2023 15:26:42 GMT

Why Unity Campaign and the Credit Café Go Hand-in-Hand

IHA is one of thirty nonprofits who are part of the Unity Campaign for Frederick County from March 8 – 10, 2023.

What is the Unity Campaign you ask?

The Unity Campaign is a collaborative donation campaign project between nonprofit partners, sponsors and the greater Frederick community. This campaign happens annually in March and its 100% online, plus 100% of individual donations go to the nonprofit of your choice (which we are hoping you choose Interfaith Housing Alliance “IHA”).

Why donate to the Unity Campaign?

All included nonprofits support ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households which means these families earn an income above the Federal Poverty Level but still struggle to afford basic household necessities such as housing, transportation, childcare, food, transportation, and health care. The most recent ALICE report found that 37% of households in Frederick County, MD are considered ALICE, so it is very possible that someone you know is an ALICE household and could benefit from your support! Interested in learning more about ALICE? Follow this link: https://www.unitedwayfrederick.org/challenge-alice

What will IHA do with Unity Campaign Donations?

IHA’s Credit Café Workshop will be the beneficiary of these donations through the Unity Campaign. The Credit Café Workshop is 100% free to all participants who reach out seeking assistance with improving their credit. Just $56 can help cover the cost of two credit reports per participant who attends.

How does IHA’s Credit Café Workshop help ALICE households?

An individual’s credit is called into question in every area of life whether they are renting an apartment, applying for a car or mortgage loan, applying for a job, or even turning on their utilities. The Credit Café increases participants' knowledge of how to make lasting, life-long changes to their credit and/or everyday financial decisions. These changes help participants secure greater financial stability for themselves and their families through pursuit of better housing, lower interest rates on loans, and/or better jobs. More than anything, the changes that Credit Café participants implement in their lives as a result of our program helps to mitigate their need to make those hard financial choices on day-to-day expenses.

During the last fiscal year, July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2022, IHA served 135 individuals whose average yearly household income was approximately $37,813. To date in this fiscal year, July 2022 – June 2023, IHA has already served 75 individuals whose average yearly household income is approximately $34,862.

How does the Credit Café Workshop work?

The Credit Café Workshop combines education and strategic credit goal setting to help participants improve, maintain, or boost their credit scores and decrease their overall debts. The educational portion happens first with a 1-hour group workshop that is offered multiple times each month year-round. This workshop covers a broad array of topic related to understanding how credit works and best practices for maintaining it.

The second portion is a personalized 30-minute one-on-one credit report review session with an advisor to occur virtually within 1 week of completing the group workshop. The advisor provides participants with an understanding on how to read their credit report and set credit related goals to meet their future financial needs. IHA provides each participant with a free, personal copy of their tri-merged credit report that is pulled the day of the event to provide the most up-to-date information for this one-on-one meeting.

The Credit Café Workshop also includes continuous support to participants following their initial workshop attendance. While the advisor is available as needed to the participant, the advisor will follow up via email, call or text based on participant’s preference to check in at 3 and 6 months. These check-ins are to make sure the participant has everything they need to continue their credit journey and checking in on progress made. Participants are then invited to return for a second advising session and updated copy of their credit report.

The Credit Café Workshop currently is 100% virtual with some hybrid options becoming available. In addition, IHA provides interpretation services to all those we serve at no cost to the participant. Interpreters are available on-demand and around the clock in more than 240 languages.

How to Donate?

There are two ways to donate:

Visit this website: https://igfn.us/vf/Unity2023/team/InterfaithHousingAllian14
Text Unity202337 to 71777

The Unity Campaign for Frederick County will be highly advertised to bring awareness to the campaign, and it’s associated nonprofits from March 8 – 19, 2023. However, you can donate now if you do not want to wait!

Can’t donate? No problem, please help spread the word about IHA’s Unity Campaign participation!

Interested in the Credit Café Workshop?

Contact Lacy Ames at lames@interfaithhousing.org or text 301-818-5606 to get started today!

Quarterly Grant Review - December 2022

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 14:37:41 GMT

Quarterly Grant Review - December 2022

IHA is proud to announce 12 funding awards received this past quarter from community partners.

In August 2022, IHA was awarded a $25,000 grant by Bank of America Charitable Foundation. This grant provides support for both IHA’s full suite of Financial Dignity and Empowerment Services, as well as the organization’s operating costs. It will give IHA the opportunity to continue its work at both the individual and community levels.

In September 2022, IHA was awarded a $10,000 grant by The Helen J. Serini Foundation, Inc. This operational grant will support IHA in its ongoing quest to create affordable housing opportunity for community members and design individualized pathways to financial stability.

IHA also received a $2,500 grant from Enterprise Holdings Foundation, which will support IHA’s community programming.

In addition, IHA was awarded a $7,849 grant from the City of Frederick through their Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Public Services program. This funding will support IHA’s Supportive Services programming at Weinberg House, which is a 23-unit affordable rental community in downtown Frederick for low- to moderate-income (LMI) residents aged 62 and older.

In October 2022, IHA received a renewal of its $5,000 partnership agreement with United Way of Frederick County and The Prosperity Center. Credit Café promotes financial stability among LMI households through group credit education and free, individualized credit advising. Participants partner with a certified financial coach to create a strategic plan to build, boost, or improve their credit.

IHA also received a $1,468.38 designated grant from The PNC Homeownership Fund of The Community Foundation of Frederick County. These pass-through funds will directly support LMI households in achieving homeownership in Frederick County.

In November 2022, IHA’s $5,000 application to participate in United Way of Frederick County’s Annual Unity Campaign was approved. This approval will enable IHA to participate in the Spring 2023 Unity Campaign alongside other local nonprofit organizations to collectively raise funds in the Frederick County community.

IHA was also awarded a $20,000 grant by Delaplaine Foundation, Inc. This grant supports IHA’s full range of Financial Dignity & Empowerment Services, which are designed to improve financial and housing stability for LMI households. These programs serve seniors, working families, and individuals through: educational workshops; one on-one financial coaching and housing counseling; and connection to affordable housing opportunities and community resources.

IHA also received three grants from the Ausherman Family Foundation (AFF). The first is a 2:1 matching grant. AFF will match up to $30,000 in donations raised from community members and IHA’s Board of Directors during IHA’s 2022 annual appeal. The second is a $7,178 capacity building grant that will support training, professional development, and equipment for IHA’s staff members. The third is a $400 operating grant awarded by AFF’s Trustees.

Lastly, IHA received a $400 donor-advised grant from The H. Deets and Juanita Warfield Donor-Advised Fund of The Community Foundation of Frederick County. These unrestricted funds will support all of IHA’s endeavors in strengthening the communities we serve. New Paragraph

Holiday Candle Traditions and Safety

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 14:28:40 GMT

It is that time of year when we welcome lighted candles into our homes whether its for a Diwali diya, Hanukkah hanukkiah, a Yule log, Advent wreath, or the Kwanzaa kinara. Please keep in mind that the #1 danger during the holidays is fire, which is increased by using candles to illuminate sacred traditions and ceremonies.

Diwali, also called the Festival of Lights, is a five day celebration of light over darkness and marks a time for making wishes for the coming year. On Diwali night, people dress up and light diyas, or lamps and candles, inside and outside the home. Lamps that float are sent out on water with wishes to Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity.

The Hanukkah celebration revolves around the lighting of a nine-branched menorah, known as the hanukkiah. On each of the holiday’s eight nights, another candle is added to the hanukkiah after sundown; the ninth candle, called the shamash (“helper”), is used to light the others. Blessings are typically recited during this ritual and the hanukkiah is often displayed prominently in a window as a reminder to others of the miracle that inspired the holiday.

During the week-long celebration of Kwanzaa, seven candles are placed in a kinara (a Swahili word that means candle holder) —three red on the left, three green on the right, and a single black candle in the center. The seven candles represent the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa and a new candle is lit on the kinara each day. The center black candle is lit first, and the lighting then proceeds from left to right, the new candle being lit corresponding to the principle of that day. In this way, each day of Kwanzaa is dedicated to the contemplation of one of the Seven Principles. Each of the candles also has a meaning. The black one symbolizes the African people, the red their struggle, and the green the future and hope that comes from their struggle.

Christmas has its own candle traditions as well, such as counting down the four Sunday’s before the holiday during a period called Advent and the ancient Yule log that in modern times has become a decorative candle holder for the dinner table.

Using candles safely during the holiday season is possible by following these tips from the National Candle Association:

Never leave a burning candle unattended. Make sure the candle is completely out and the wick ember is no longer glowing before leaving the room.
Never burn a candle on or near anything that might catch fire.
Make sure children and pets cannot reach or knock over burning candles.
Never touch or move a candle while it is burning or while the wax is liquefied.
Don’t burn a candle all the way down. For a margin of safety, discontinue burning a candle when 1/2 inch remains in the container or 2 inches if using a pillar candle.
Place burning candles at least three inches apart from one another. This is to make sure they don’t melt one another, or create their own drafts that will cause the candles to burn improperly.
Extinguish a candle if the flame becomes too high or flickers repeatedly. Let the candle cool, trim the wick, and check for unwanted drafts before re-lighting.
Never use a candle as a night light or while you may fall asleep.

This season is an opportunity to appreciate the differences and similarities between our holidays across a variety of cultures. As you make plans to gather with your own family, take some time to learn about the traditions of others, and pull inspiration from customs you might not have known about before. And above all, keep your family’s safety in mind every time you light a candle!

Patti Penn's 20th Work Anniversary!

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 14:21:33 GMT

Congratulations to Patti Penn for a 20th Work Anniversary!

At IHA, we strive to bring out the best in our employees, but the true gift is finding employees who can do the same for us. We are excited to recognize Patti Penn for 20 years of employment with IHA.

Patti joined IHA on December 1, 2002, as a property manager at Washington Ridge Apartments in Frostburg, Maryland. Prior to working for IHA, Patti worked for Humphrey Management at the very same property for 8 years.

During Patti’s tenure, she was also the Family Coordinator for IHA with our Self Help Housing Program in Allegany County. In 2012, Patti was responsible for the lease up of Penn Avenue Townhomes in Cumberland, Maryland and served as the first property manager there. In 2019, Patti transitioned to the Supportive Services Coordinator role, building upon the strong relationships she had developed with tenants at Washington Ridge and Penn Ave.

Patti, we can never tell you enough how much your contributions impact IHA in both big and small ways. Your support and dedication make IHA, and everyone who works here, stronger and happier. Your impact on families in Allegany County for the last 20 years serve as your legacy. We are so proud to have you as part of our work family. Congratulations on 20 years!

End of Year Giving Campaign 2022

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 14:12:50 GMT

End of Year Giving Campaign 2022

Undoubtedly, the importance of home has been raised to our collective consciousness in the last three years. From the early stages of the pandemic shelter in place, virtual schooling, virtual work and hybrid work environments we are spending more time than ever at home. What we once did outside our home, we are now doing at home. Work life has seen dramatic changes in the last three years with companies downsizing corporate offices or eliminating them altogether in favor of work from home settings.

Now imagine, what if your housing were unstable, or worse yet, out of reach? Would you take on another job? Cut back on your groceries and health expenses? Rob Peter to pay Paul? For most of us, the idea of deciding between paying our rent and buying groceries and medications is an uncomfortable one.

Yet, in the state of Maryland this is reality for the 26% of households that are extremely low income. 74% of extremely low income households are severely cost burdened and paying more than 50% of their income for housing. For every 100 of those households, there are only 32 affordable homes available. That leaves two thirds of extremely low income households competing for affordable housing that simply doesn’t exist. In 2022 Maryland families need to earn $25.82 per hour to afford a two bedroom apartment. It is only when families earn 60% of the area median income that they barely can afford the rental. That leaves families earning 50% and under without affordable housing.

It is this kind of data that drives the mission of Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA). We seek to strengthen communities by providing affordable housing opportunities for seniors, working families and individuals. IHA currently has 528 new affordable homes in development over the next three years. It is our joy to serve others with this much needed housing.

We invite you to join us in this work by giving during our year end campaign which kicked off on November 1st. Each dollar donated is being matched by $2, thanks to our sponsors. IHA has raised $60,000 in matching sponsorship funds and our goal is to raise $30,000 more in donations. Please consider supporting this important work.

If you would like to learn more about this work or discuss a donation, please reach out to our President, Jodie Ostoich at jostoich@interfaithhousing.org.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 13:38:14 GMT

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. Intimate partner violence accounts for 15 percent of violent crime in the United States. Approximately one in four women and one in nine men experience intimate partner violence.

Directly related to the stress and isolation forced during the pandemic, domestic violence cases increased by 25-33 percent globally in 2020 according to the American Journal of Emergency Medicine.

As alarming as these statistics are, it is widely believed that less than half of all incidents are reported.

Domestic violence knows no boundaries. It affects people of all races, ages, sexual orientations, religions, genders, socioeconomic backgrounds, and education levels. It's a universal problem, so why are victims so wary of reporting it?

The reasons are as varied and complex as the types of abuse that constitute acts of domestic violence. Domestic violence is a serious, sometimes life-threatening, situation, and is about power and control. One partner is controlling the other through a pattern of physical, verbal, financial, and/or mental abuse. Many victims worry that telling the truth will further endanger themselves, their children or other family members.

A great example of this is portrayed in the Netflix documentary “Mourning Son.” Both the mother and son were threatened and afraid, but neither of them spoke about their fears to each other. The end result was that the mother was murdered and the son went through a downward spiral of depression and substance abuse.

A true crime series on Discovery + “Fight or Flight” showcases the work of Somy Ali, an 8-year domestic violence victim turned human rights advocate who for the last 15 years has rescued thousands of men, women, and children from domestic violence and sex trafficking through her nonprofit No More Tears. The series highlights the atrocities and trauma victims of abuse endure and their journey from victim to survivor. Viewers go along with Somy in a race against time to extricate victims and help them secure the help and safety they need to rebuild their lives and the seemingly insurmountable hurdles victims face along their journey toward freedom and independence.

Nearly all abusers deny their crimes which puts the victim in the horrific position of having to tell in great detail all of the events that have occurred, further contributing to their trauma.

Most domestic violence cases happen in the privacy of a home. Usually, there are no other witnesses, and the only people who know what really happened will give different versions of the same event. More often than not, a domestic violence case pits the word of the alleged victim against that of the defendant, and a jury is asked to figure out which side is telling a version of the story that is closer to the actual truth.

The question “Why do people stay in abusive relationships?” is often posed to survivors, implying that they are to blame for the abuse. All too often the answer is the lack of resources created by the controlling partner. In so many situations, the victim has not been allowed to have access to employment, friends, extended family and money. Some aren’t even allowed to have a car or a phone! Fear, financial dependency and forced isolation all contribute to the inability of the victim to leave.

How can we help?

It’s impossible to know with certainty what goes on behind closed doors, but there are some telltale signs of emotional abuse and domestic violence. If you witness these warning signs of abuse in a friend, family member, or co-worker, take them very seriously.

People who are being abused may:

Seem afraid or anxious to please their partner
Go along with everything their partner says and does
Check in often with their partner to report where they are and what they’re doing
Receive frequent, harassing phone calls from their partner
Talk about their partner’s temper, jealousy, or possessiveness

People who are being physically abused may:

Have frequent injuries, with the excuse of “accidents.”
Frequently miss work, school, or social occasions, without explanation.
Dress in clothing designed to hide bruises or scars (for example, wearing long sleeves in the summer or sunglasses indoors).

People who are being isolated by their abuser may:

Be restricted from seeing family and friends.
Rarely go out in public without their partner.
Have limited access to money, credit cards, or the car.

People who are being emotionally abused may:

Have very low self-esteem, even if they used to be confident.
Show major personality changes (e.g. an outgoing person becomes withdrawn).
Be depressed, anxious, or suicidal.

If you suspect that someone you know is being abused, speak up! If you’re hesitating by telling yourself that it’s none of your business or that the person might not want to talk about it, keep in mind that expressing your concern will let the person know that you care and may even save their life.

Talk to the person in private and let them know that you’re concerned. Point out the signs you’ve noticed that worry you. Tell the person that you’re there for them, whenever they feel ready to talk.

Above all, suggest that they contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling (800) 799-SAFE (7233) or by texting START to 88788 if they do have access to a phone that isn’t monitored by their abuser. Or suggest they visit https://www.thehotline.org/ for more information and resources.

Lindsey's Homeownership Success Story

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 13:08:27 GMT

Lindsey states "My life has many new beginnings; some of them have been positive and full of hope, some of them have brought everything to a screeching halt. Nevertheless, I have faced these changes and challenges with optimism and determination. My priority has always been the well-being of my four children and trying to surround them with an atmosphere of love, hope and acceptance.

In the summer of 2017, I left with my children from an abusive marriage. The years leading up to that point were filled with trauma, financial instability and bankruptcy, housing insecurity, PTSD, crippling self-doubt, uncertainty, and fear. When I was finally able to break free of that cycle, we moved back to my childhood home with my parents. While it was not an ideal situation, it was the best option available to begin the process of healing and rebuilding our lives.

Over the next several years, my children and I adapted to life in a multi-generational home that was not our own. There were many adjustments to be made, obstacles to overcome and some significant losses to endure. Lengthy custody battles left me financially drained and emotionally exhausted. I found a great sense of purpose working at Heartly House and helping others going through similar circumstances. I learned new skills and regained self-esteem that had been torn apart in the previous years.

Then, last fall, I learned that the home we were living in was going to be sold. The need to find a safe space for my family to call our own became not only a necessity, but the only clear path toward healing. I researched every option available to provide my (now teenage) children with our own home before summer. With skyrocketing home prices and rentals costing twice as much as I could afford, the situation was daunting.

I discovered the Interfaith Housing Alliance and USDA-RD loan program. I applied and was connected with the amazing people who helped me complete the mortgage application. Vivian and Carol made sure that every question was answered, and every document submitted for USDA to process the loan package. Once I received my COE, they connected me with a fantastic realtor, and I began searching for a home in the height of an insane real estate market. I was also able to tell my children the good news - that I was going to buy a house for us.

There were a few bumps along the way, but we found our forever home. We have more space than ever before. We live in a nice neighborhood that has everything we need close by. My daily commute was cut by more than half. My monthly mortgage payment is completely manageable and far less than rent would be for a home this size. I can take pride in the repairs I do and changes I make to it, and we can make it all our own. There will always be things in life that are out of my control but having a safe place to live is no longer one of them. Our family is finally home.

In the short month since I went to closing, our lives have changed in so many positive ways. We have true stability for the first time in years and our fate is in our own hands. I was able to give my children a place that is their own, a space to heal and grow, and a home that is filled with love and acceptance. Words cannot describe the amount of peace and empowerment that has come from buying my own home. Five years ago, when my life changed completely overnight, I never would have imagined this as a possibility. Now here we are, looking to the future with hope and confidence.

I would encourage anyone facing housing insecurity to contact IHA. They have been supportive and helpful every step of the way. I would not have been able to navigate through the application process with USDA without them. IHA helped to find any/all of the local programs that could assist with funding. They helped me narrow down my options and determine how much I could comfortably manage for a mortgage. My family has bright paths ahead now, and that we can walk with confidence knowing that we have a home. I have IHA to thank for that."

Day of Giving 2022

lames@interfaithhousing.org (Lacy Ames) — Wed, 01 Jun 2022 14:21:19 GMT

IHA Day of Giving is a special day set aside to celebrate, spread awareness and support IHA each year on our founding day: July 11th, 1990!

On the day there will be information provided about current happenings at IHA, live social media videos from staff members, and many personalized thank you’s to all our generous supporters. SAVE THE DATE to take part in our special day.

This year all of our donations are going towards upgrading at our Weinberg House Apartments which houses seniors 62 and older in Frederick, MD.

What do we need from you (our supporters)?

Mark your calendars for 7-11-2022
Help spread awareness to IHA’s mission by sharing, liking, and commenting on IHA Day of Giving posts (Facebook and Instagram)
Consider donating to support IHA (web link and text code will be supplied soon)

We look forward to making our 4th annual IHA Day of Giving a remarkable success and we appreciate all your support!

Quarterly Grant Review - Summer 2022

Tue, 31 May 2022 20:23:17 GMT

Summer 2022 - Quarterly Grant Review

Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) is proud to announce three funding awards received this past quarter from community partners.

In February 2022, IHA was awarded a $25,000 grant by the Kahlert Foundation. This grant supports the rehabilitation of IHA’s Weinberg House. This 23-unit affordable rental community in Frederick, MD was originally built in 1994 and houses senior members of our community ages 62 and older with low to moderate income. The rehabilitation project will include upgrades to heating, appliances, plumbing, drywall, flooring, lighting, cabinets, and countertops.

In April 2022, IHA was awarded a $25,000 Community Partnership Grant from Frederick County Government. This grant supports IHA’s four Financial Dignity and Empowerment Workshops: Credit Café; Your Prescription for Financial Health; Ready, Set, Go… Home!; and Homebuyer’s Club. In Credit Café, participants work specifically on improving their credit. Your Prescription for Financial Health helps participants learn about budgeting, saving, asset-building, and healthy spending. Ready, Set, Go… Home! helps participants understand the homebuying process from start to finish. Homebuyer’s Club provides new homeowners with ongoing education on foreclosure prevention, as well as home and loan maintenance.

In May 2022, IHA was awarded a $25,000 allocation of State tax credits through the Community Investment Tax Credit (CITC) Program of Maryland’s Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). Donors who make contributions of $500 or more to IHA in support of our mission will be eligible to earn tax credits equal to 50% of the value of the money, goods, or real property contribution. These tax credits are in addition to the deductions on both Federal and State taxes as a result of the charitable contribution.

Brunswick and IHA Have a Long History of Partnership and Progress and it is still going strong!

Tue, 31 May 2022 20:20:21 GMT

Brunswick and IHA Have a Long History of Partnership and Progress and it is still going strong!

IHA began its venture into the Mutual Self-Help Homeownership Program, financed by USDA Rural Development and guided by NCALL (National Council on Agricultural Life & Labor Research Fund, Inc.), with our Mountain View Homes community in Brunswick, MD that provided homeownership opportunities to low-income families in the 1990’s.

The Mountain View Homes community joined families together with the shared goal of creating a better future for themselves and future generations. They worked together for months to build their homes, providing 65% of the labor required to make their dream affordable. Twenty-two new homes were built with much love and hard work and six of them are still owned by those who helped to build them. The rest have provided an additional 31 families the opportunity of homeownership.

Although Interfaith Housing Alliance is committed to providing housing solutions of nearly every kind, its flagship programs have been geared to homeownership. These programs follow the mission of the organization to build community and to strengthen the economic stability of seniors, working families and individuals.

Homeownership represents the ultimate investment, building wealth through home equity to ensure economic security and gaining a strong sense of belonging to a community through ownership.

IHA’s Purchase Repair Homeownership Program, offered in Carroll, Frederick and Washington counties, continues our long relationship with Brunswick. Through help from IHA’s homeownership and financial counseling, 14 more families have become first-time homebuyers in Brunswick.

Brunswick is a wonderful place to call home. Known for its railroad and canal heritage, abundant outdoor recreational opportunities, new and vintage affordable homes, quaint shops and eateries, Brunswick proclaims itself to be a big town with small city ambiance and a friendly atmosphere.

IHA is also pleased to announce that a new mixed-income rental community, The Residences at Railroad Square, is on its way, combining historic restoration along with new construction. Amenities will include secure parking, elevator access, fitness center, pocket parks, community multi-purpose rooms and rooftop patio. The addition of these 45 apartments will contribute greatly to the growth and success of the many small Mom & Pop businesses in downtown Brunswick.

Also included will be The Shoppes at Railroad Square which will add approximately 15,000 square feet of retail/office space. The space will be a combination of new construction and renovated ground level retail in the adjacent Mommer’s Building, a prominent historic landmark located at the intersection of Potomac Street and Maple Avenue, directly across from Brunswick’s City Hall. The renovation of this 3-story building will include ground level retail space and 3 affordable apartments on the upper level.

Other components of the project include the restoration and adaptive reuse of the historic Brunswick Train Station for community and cultural uses, several pocket parks and green space areas for community events and seasonal activities and surface parking lot that will provide additional parking for Railroad Square and community events.

Your Real Estate BFF

Tue, 31 May 2022 20:10:11 GMT

Who is the Best Friend of a Home Buyer?

Your Real Estate Agent

From the moment you become qualified by a lender for a mortgage, your real estate agent takes you by the hand and guides you through the entire process of finding and purchasing the perfect home for you and your family.

Here is what you can expect from your agent:

• Become completely familiar with your needs, wants and budget

• Send listings to you that fit your needs

• Set up showings for homes that you are interested in looking at

• When you are ready to make an offer, your agent should help you to determine what the offer should be based on your budget and knowledge of the current market

• Write up contract offer that fully protects you if you need to cancel based on inspections

• Schedule and coordinate all required inspections

• Help you choose a settlement company

• Schedule and attend final walk-thru before settlement

• Attend settlement to make sure all paperwork matches contract agreement

Oftentimes, this relationship can span over the course of an entire year and can involve a lot of stress and heartbreak. A great agent, like a great friend, will understand what an emotional roller coaster ride buying a home can be, especially if it is your first time.

Choosing the right agent is essential so here are some tips from industry experts: (Excerpted from www.forbes.com )

Choose The Person, Not The Experience

“I am a firm believer in choosing an agent who works for you and with you. Don't choose an agent based solely on experience. Although it’s good to have, it's not everything. You will be spending a lot of time with that agent and you need to mesh. Choose someone relatable and real. Choose for you, not for the house. Choose someone good at talking and negotiating.”

Remember Chemistry Is Key

“It's best to interview at least three agents before picking the one you work with. Focus on neighborhood expertise; look for hyperlocal. Ask yourself, "Is their marketing about them or their properties?" Also, can you trust them, are they honest? Chemistry is the key.”

Find Someone Who Has Your Best Interests At Heart

“Ask yourself, "Does my real estate agent have my best interests at heart?" Be honest and transparent about what you’re looking for, and if an agent isn’t bringing you the right options, it’s likely they aren’t looking for houses for you but rather to benefit themselves. Ask questions upfront and don’t be afraid to move on to someone else if the relationship doesn’t feel right.”

Go With Your Gut Feeling

“Your brain uses logic and emotion when making a decision, and that specific feeling you get when doing so is your intuition — your gut feeling. If you're interviewing a real estate agent for the job, first look to see that they do a lot of business and have a lot of raving fans. Second, go with your gut feeling. If it feels right, he's the guy or gal for the job.”

Find An Agent You Can Trust

“As the client, you begin the dialogue — but pay close attention to the agent or broker and how he/she listens and asks YOU questions. Most successful agents have access to the technology it takes to find options for purchase, but it takes a human being to understand and work to achieve your specific goals. Take time to find a human you respect and trust.”

Find A Compassionate Agent Who Understands You

“Let’s face it — buying a house is a stressful task, especially if you are facing a divorce, having a baby, mourning the death of a spouse, etc. You need an agent who is patient with you and your circumstances. Interview an agent or broker and see if they have the same emotions, outlook on life, personality, as you do.”

Seek Clear Lines Of Communication

“First and foremost, you need to feel completely comfortable talking and communicating with the real estate agent. If it feels awkward or if there is undue pressure placed on you by a real estate agent, this is not the right fit.”

Seek Referrals From Other Homeowners

“Despite the technology that seems to take over much of the searching for a home, the right real estate agent is still a human-to-human choice. Referral is best. There's no bigger compliment to an agent than a referral from a past client. Ask homeowners who they would recommend. If you know the area you want to purchase in or sell your home in, there will be an expert in that area.”

This last recommendation is my favorite! IHA’s Purchase Repair Homeownership Program has been around since 2012, and two agents have really stepped up and embraced the program and the low-income clients that qualify.

Together, these two incredible agents have served 30% of our Purchase Repair Homeownership Program home buyers!

Quarterly Grant Review - Spring 2022

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 16:10:49 GMT

IHA is PROUD to announce three funding awards received this past quarter from our community partners!

In November 2021, IHA was awarded a $20,000 grant by Delaplaine Foundation, Inc. This grant supports IHA’s full range of Financial Dignity & Empowerment Services, which are designed to improve financial and housing stability for low- to moderate-income (LMI) households. These programs serve seniors, working families, and individuals through educational workshops, one-on-one financial coaching and housing counseling, and connections to affordable housing opportunities and community resources.

In January 2022, IHA received two funding awards in support of its Credit Café program. These included a $2,000 Service Partnership Grant awarded by The Rotary Club of Frederick and a renewal of IHA’s $5,000 partnership agreement with United Way of Frederick County and The Prosperity Center. Credit Café promotes financial stability among LMI households through group credit education and free, individualized credit advising. Participants partner with a financial coach to create a strategic plan to either build, boost, or improve their credit.

Walk the Talk

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 15:55:21 GMT

Walk the Talk

and that is what IHA is doing when it comes to embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion!

We are committed to these principles and include them in our corporate value statements, but this year we are going deeper than our annual Fair Housing training.

In January, all staff had comprehensive training on how to recognize our unconscious biases (we all have them) and how they can create discriminatory behavior that we are consciously unaware of. However, recognizing that these biases exist is just the first step. We also learned ways adjust our automatic patterns of thinking to be more open and accepting, allowing us to better connect with people whose experiences are different than our own.

In February, our training was in diversity awareness which expanded our definition of diversity and allowed us to explore the distinctions between affirmative action, diversity, equity, and inclusion. The goal of this was to increase our cultural sensitivity and cross-cultural fluency.

As providers of affordable housing, it is necessary for us to recognize historical injustices and to help ensure that everyone receives the resources, support and opportunities they need. It is not about equality which assumes that everyone starts from the same place, but rather equity which is about equal outcomes and assumes that everyone starts from different places.

IHA is working to bring a diversity, equity and inclusion perspective to all that we do — from our major strategic priorities to the countless small decisions we make every day. As our organization continues to learn and grow, we will continue walking the talk.

Want to learn more?

https://leanin.org/education/what-is-unconscious-bias

https://www.urban.org/events/improving-homeownership-outcomes-critical-narrowing- wealth-equity-gap

https://www.urban.org/features/exposing-housing-discrimination

The Importance of Home

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 18:28:22 GMT

Undoubtedly, the pandemic has shown us the importance of home.

More than any time in recent history, home has become the center of all we do. What we once did outside our home, we are now doing at home. Work and school life has seen dramatic changes in the last two years.

It is this kind of data that drives the mission of Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA). We seek to strengthen communities by providing affordable housing opportunities for seniors, working families and individuals. IHA currently has 562 new affordable homes in development over the next three years. It is our joy to serve others with this much needed housing.

We invite you to join us in this work by giving during our year end campaign which kicked off on November 1st and ends January 31, 2022. Each dollar donated is being matched by $2, thanks to our sponsors. IHA has raised $40,000 in matching sponsorship funds and our goal is to raise $20,000 more in donations. Please consider supporting this important work. To donate today text IHAHoliday to 71777 or click this link: IHA End of Year Donation

If you would like to learn more about this work or discuss a donation, please reach out to our President, Jodie Ostoich at jostoich@interfaithhousing.org .

Quarterly Grant Review

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 14:20:34 GMT

IHA is proud to announce four grants received this past quarter from our community partners.

In October 2021, IHA was awarded a $45,000 grant by Morgan Stanley. This grant supports IHA in its ongoing quest to create more affordable housing opportunities for low- to moderate-income community members. It also allows IHA to continue supporting community members on their path to financial stability through individualized programming, including IHA’s workshops, homeownership program, and supportive services for our tenants.

IHA was also awarded a $484,541 grant by the United States Department of Agriculture – Rural Development (USDA-RD). This two-year grant provides technical and supervisory assistance that aids low-income families in carrying out self-help housing efforts. The grant supports IHA’s Purchase-Repair Homeownership Program, which provides affordable homeownership opportunities to families and individuals in Frederick, Carroll, and Washington Counties in Maryland, as well as one-on-one housing counseling and financial coaching throughout their journey to homeownership.

Lastly, IHA received two grants from the Ausherman Family Foundation (AFF). The first is a two-for-one matching grant that will match up to $20,000 donations received from community members and IHA’s Board of Directors during the organization’s annual year-end appeal. The second is a $500 general operating grant awarded by AFF’s Trustees. AFF is a private foundation, established in 2006. The Trustees envision a vibrant community where committed nonprofit organizations effectively work together in a spirit of cooperation to advance superior charitable outcomes in Frederick County. The Foundation’s mission is to empower the passion for change in Frederick County, Maryland.

Service Coordination During the Pandemic

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 14:15:33 GMT

Service Coordination During the Pandemic

In September 2019 I moved into a new position with Interfaith Housing Alliance as a Supportive Service Coordinator. When the shut-down of businesses occurred in March 2020 due to COVID-19, I was still learning the position’s responsibilities- arranging services for residents in need which required meeting with residents to assess needs, providing educational and personal enrichment activities for the residents, as well as hosting fun activities for everyone. In March I had to cancel that month’s Absolutely Awesome Kids Day as we were all sent home. How to do my job from home?

The essential part of checking in on residents’ welfare was possible through phone and emails; but I researched for weeks all the suggestions for virtual activities to do during the pandemic. It was inspiring to see how fast ideas were popping up everywhere. Here is a list of some of the most successful activities we have done at the properties during the pandemic:

Handed out envelopes of coloring pages to families for a coloring contest, gearing pages to ages of their children. We had 5 winners in the coloring contest between Washington Ridge Apartments, and Penn Ave. Townhomes. The winning participants were given gift cards.

In each of my weekly memos to residents, I added suggestions for websites for children and adults that offered home activities, virtual help with schoolwork, everything-from virtual storytelling to virtual visits to places of interest, art, music, and science activities. I also tried to add anything happening locally, like a photography company that adapted to the pandemic by doing ‘back porch photos’, where families could have pictures taken outside.

I offered a weekly virtual exercise class in which residents could participate with me from home on their phones and computers. Suggestions for places taking donations such as Goodwill and Salvation Army were listed with what they were accepting. I tried to gather homemade dog treats for the local rescue, which was not very successful. Shared invite to Interfaith Housing’s virtual Credit Café to anyone interested.

We made large posters thanking first responders at the hospital, that were decorated, and signed by residents and their children. A new local farm brought produce weekly to sell outside on the property - masks required. Due to Covid, the September annual fire safety program was not going to be provided at the local schools. A local firetruck was scheduled to come to the property for fire safety for the kids-masks and proper distancing. A resident reported losing money on Cash App, so I investigated and put out an informative memo for residents. Notices about help with energy assistance apps, registering to vote, and filling out the census forms were offered.

A grant to supply low to very-low-income families with school supplies was awarded to IHA. We provided the school-age children at the two local properties with their own chrome books, which were required by the Board of Education, and cost prohibitive to these parents.

In July 2021, we had our first get together “summer outdoor party” since the pandemic started. We had water games outside and the children of the property put their handprints on a piece of canvas in a rainbow fashion. The canvas is being made into a wall hanging for the community room. Fun was had by all along with the hopes that we can continue getting together.

The pandemic made us think outside the box, which is a good thing. It is amazing what we can accomplish even in the worst of times.

What Stresses You During the Holidays?

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 14:11:45 GMT

What Stresses You During the Holidays?

For months the news has been filled with supply chain problems and recommendations to start your holiday shopping early. We are told there is a long list of problems plaguing the retail sector right now, including labor shortages, lack of inventory and eager consumers ready to spend, and this holiday shopping season is expected to be stressful and expensive.

So here we are, in December, and many of us are a bit frantic. But not all of us, at least not about whether we can find the perfect gifts for the holidays.

There are many in our community who can’t afford gifts because they can’t afford food, medical care, transportation, and even housing. If you can’t afford your basic needs, holiday shopping is not even a concern. Staying housed, clothed and healthy are what stresses them, and not just during the holiday season, but all year long, often year after year.

At this time of year, many organizations offer us opportunities to “Adopt a Family” and to provide gifts on the family’s wish list. For families who have to make decisions about paying bills, keeping the heat on, or getting food on the table, these programs can offer families a way to keep their children’s lives a bit more normal. Kids can go back to school after winter break and show off their new clothes, just like the other children.

But the benefits are short-lived because after the holiday gift-giving season, these families are still faced with the overwhelming decisions of paying for food or paying for electricity, and this worry continues all year round.

During the holidays many of us take time to reflect on what brings us joy - family and friends, laughter and love, health and stability. We would like you to consider another form of joy - helping others with passion.

Passion should be the foundation for helping others. It is not how much you give, but how much love you put into giving. It is only natural that some of you will care about this cause and not so much about that cause, and that’s okay. It is not simply a matter of doing the right thing, but also a matter of choosing a cause that matters to you.

Helping others may just be the secret to living a life that is not only happier but also healthier, wealthier, more productive, and meaningful. The key is to find the approach that fits. When we do, the more we give, the more we stand to gain in purpose, meaning and happiness - things we all stress about finding in our lives, but seldom do.

IHA Day 2021 THANK YOU

lames@interfaithhousing.org (Lacy Ames) — Tue, 31 Aug 2021 13:29:07 GMT

IHA Day 2021 THANK YOU

Save The Date - End of Year Campaign 2021

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 13:26:58 GMT

Save the Date - End of Year Campaign 2021

Thank you to all donors that participated in IHA’s end of year campaign in 2020. The intent of the 30-30-30 campaign was to celebrate our 30th year by raising $30,000 in donor funds and $30,000 in matching funds. The Ausherman Family Foundation added an additional $30,000 in funds if we met those goals.

Thanks to 64 donors and 10 sponsors, we met that goal! In total, we raised $93,798. We deeply appreciate this support, especially since the pandemic understandably affected the amount of giving in 2020.

Our year end campaign for 2021 will kick off on November 1 and run through January 31, 2022. We are still working on the details of the campaign and the matching amounts. Please stay tuned to our Facebook page or Subscribe to future newsletters through our website (by clicking here) and scrolling to the bottom of the page to enter your name and email address.

Fall Quarterly Grant Review

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 15:56:31 GMT

Grant Quarterly Review

IHA is proud to announce two grants received this past quarter from our community partners.

In June 2021, the organization was awarded a $1,638 capacity-building grant from The Helen J. Serini Foundation. This charitable foundation works to improve the quality of life and wellbeing for the community by funding organizations that connect at-risk and underserved youth and their families with opportunities for improved education, vocational training, and healthcare. This grant supports enhancement of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at IHA, including our practices, policies, and procedures. Funding will support unconscious bias awareness training for all staff members and the creation of an updated employee handbook.

In August 2021, IHA was awarded a $50,000 Bounce Back COVID-19 Grant from Frederick County Government. This grant program was created with funding provided by and administered through Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development as follows: The American Rescue Plan: Nonprofits-Local Government Program, as administered by DHCD pursuant to the State of Maryland’s Recovery for the Economy, Livelihoods, Industries, Entrepreneurs, and Families (RELIEF) Act. This grant specifically supports IHA’s Purchase-Repair Homeownership and Credit Café programs in their increasing demand for services as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Westminster Way AKA Union Village

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 15:52:43 GMT

Westminster Way AKA Union Village

Those familiar with IHA’s history will remember the 20-unit development in Westminster, MD called Union Village. It is a community that is subsidized and funded by USDA-RD. In March of 2020, IHA sold this property to Conifer Realty to form a new partnership, Westminster Way, LLC.

Westminster Way is a scattered site, 55-unit family development located in the City of Westminster.  The project involves the rehabilitation of the 20 townhome units formerly known as Union Village. The new construction of 35 units in a podium style, mid-rise building about 1 mile away from the former Union Village at 312-322 West Main Street in Westminster. The total project cost is $19,450,660.

Each townhome at the former Union Village received $90,000 in rehabilitation upgrades. Below please find the before and after pictures of Union Village as well as a photo of the new construction of the podium building.

Hispanic Homebuyers

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 15:25:32 GMT

Hispanic Heritage Month

The Hispanic population is the fastest-growing culture group in the United States leading to demands for new housing. More overcrowded housing is caused by lack of affordable housing. There are many challenges based on despite laws that are set in place to protect Hispanics and other minority groups in the housing market. Some immigrants have a lack of information about the homebuying process and an inability to meet mortgage underwriting criteria. There are several other factors contributing such as the young Hispanic population dropping out of school due to financial pressure to join the workforce, to contribute to the family income. Financial success depends increasingly on education, from college rather than just high school. These barriers include problems in discriminatory treatment in both the housing and mortgage markets, and a lack of understanding and comfort with the homebuying and mortgage processes. The instability of rental housing compared to homeownership contributes to issues. Poverty impedes home conditions, adequate heat, lack of air conditioning, importable plumbing, or routing infestations.

The American Dream is the idea that every hard-working U.S. citizen and immigrant will have equal opportunities and freedom to have a good education, a successful career, comfortable homeownership, and financial prosperity. Most immigrants flock to United States for a chance of opportunity and reward of hard work to achieve a comfortable home and better education opportunities. They take some of the hardest jobs while earning below or minimum wage. With COVID-19 so many were impacted and became unemployed. The housing market has a lack of housing inventory, especially in the stock of affordable housing. In this country hard working individuals must build up wealth for themselves and their children for security and prosperity. Hispanics are willing to carry on the traditions of challenging work, sweat, and sacrifice to have the reward of decent housing for their family living.

As the United States becomes more diverse, Hispanic homeownership has driven the rise of national homeownership rates. Hispanic people have both placed more value culturally and financially which overcame great obstacles to buying homes. Homeownership is an important generator of household wealth transferred between generations. Millennials are often tied to their family and would rather buy a home for their mom and dad and live with them before pursuing their own home for themselves. Hispanic buyers often place an extra value on homes with garages or accessory dwelling units to allow for possibility of multi-generational living.

Interfaith Housing Alliance’s mission is to strengthen communities by providing affordable housing opportunities and supportive services to improve the quality of life and economic stability for seniors, working families and individuals. We assist with the entire home buying process which can be lengthy depending on whether credit repair or budgeting is needed. We counsel and encourage our clients to maintain their goals, providing resources such as promoting down payment assistance programs and encouraging land-use to create more affordable housing projects. We want our clients to believe in themselves and to know that owning a home is a lifetime achievement. With lots of love, encouragement, and commitment - dreams can come true but require hard work and dedication. We are pleased to announce we have LanguageLine Solutions as our interpreting and translating services to help our growing diverse community with over 240 languages served.

Credit Café: Stronger after COVID

lames@interfaithhousing.org (Lacy Ames) — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 15:14:02 GMT

Credit Café: Stronger after COVID

The Credit Café workshop was started back in 2016 to offer a one-time event where clients would learn about credit and receive a free credit report review with a credit advisor. Over time the event has grown to being more frequent, but still was considered a one-time workshop event. However, in 2020 during the pandemic IHA knew things needed to change for our workshops such as the Credit Café to be possible. IHA decided to evolve and adapt to our new ‘new’.

The Credit Café moved 100% online including the registration process. With new virtual opportunities, the workshop is now being offered 4 times a month with morning and evening availability to meet our participants’ schedules. The Credit Café is no longer just a one-time workshop but now each participant receives support from Lacy for 6 months. The one-time event now consists of two distinct meetings. The first is a 1-hour group meeting where participants learn what credit is, how credit impacts us, and how to best handle credit to make the most positive impact. The second is a 30-minute personalized one-on-one Credit Report Review session where the client receives a thorough credit report review within 1 week of completing the group workshop. During this review the client and program manager set goals to help the client improve, maintain, or build their credit to prepare for their future financial goals. Clients also walk away with a free copy of their credit report.

Now the support doesn’t stop there with these two meetings. Lacy is following up with clients 3 months later to check in to see how they are doing with their credit related goals. Then Lacy follows up again 6 months after they attended the credit café group workshop, offering them a 2nd credit report review session and with that comes another FREE credit report.

The Credit Café program has now become a stronger and more impactful opportunity for those in need over the last year. In prior years the Credit Café had served an average of 80-85 clients each year through the in-person workshop setting. Over the past year with a virtual setting, Lacy has been able to serve 144 individuals. The Credit Café will maintain the same schedule for the 2021-2022 year. If you or anyone you know needs credit repair, credit improvement, or just needs general credit knowledge, send them to Lacy at Lames@interfaithhousing.org to get signed up today!

Check out some success stories from the last year:

“My name is Danelle, and I attended the credit café. The credit café has helped me understand credit a lot more. This class has taught me how to increase my score and manage my credit. I feel like I got a lot out of the class and left with a better understanding or credit. I’m so grateful for the class and look forward to telling others about it.”

“The Credit Café workshop has been such a great asset in helping get my credit repaired. They explained to me in detail how to understand your credit and what is reported. As well as how to get my free reports. I was able to figure out where my issues are and how to gradually increase my score. It has taken some time, but I am headed in the right direction. I just have to be patient and continue to work hard and pay my bills as scheduled. I now understand how important credit is and will pass this information on to my children and grandchildren. “

“My experience with the Credit Café began in 2019. I was frustrated with the dream of owning a home and not seeing a clear path with student loans and multiple bills reporting in collections. The Credit Cafés have given me the motivation to act on knowledge I already had and support to learn more and self-advocate. The hardest part is taking money I could use for other things and putting it towards keeping bills out of collections but if you have had garnishments, repossessions like I had, it's worth it. A little is a lot. Thank you IHA Credit Café, my journey continues! ��”

“I opened the first of many accounts 20 years ago. My credit was so-so, with late payments and charge offs that I eventually paid, but at least I had credit. I continued this behavior as a young adult, thinking it didn’t mean a whole lot. Then, hard times and unforeseen circumstances forced me to not use my credit for the last 10 years. When I began the Credit Café in December 2020, it had been so long since I had used any of my accounts, that it was like I never had credit at all! (Oh, except for a 6-year-old ER visit that should’ve been paid by a car accident I was a passenger in. Also, an electric bill that continued 6 months after I moved from the residence, because someone fraudulently told them to keep it on, after I had it scheduled for disconnection. When I entered the Credit Café, I had ZERO credit. It was like I had been erased.

How did I fix it? I spent 3 months making calls every day and collecting evidence to get the derogatory accounts off my credit report. At the same time, I opened a secured card to start rebuilding my credit. The following month, I opened another. I worked hard to make sure that everything was deleted from my credit history and that it only reflected the positive things I had done. I keep my usage below 10%, pay everything off at once (never carry a balance), and make sure that my payments are made ON TIME! I went from NO credit to 524 in a month. Then climbed slowly until I only had positive accounts. At that time, I was in the 650s. Over time, making smart and responsible moves with my credit has shown the impact small things can have. Now, 9 months later, I have great credit and have recently opened an unsecured card with a much higher limit, I qualify to get my deposits back from my secured cards and will soon be on my way to home ownership, which is the ultimate goal.”

Thank You Chris Reeder for your Donation!

lames@interfaithhousing.org (Lacy Ames) — Thu, 12 Aug 2021 12:15:59 GMT

Chris Reeder of Long and Foster Real Estate chose IHA to receive a donation during the month of August!

IHA received a wonderful donation from Chris Reeder on Wednesday, August 11th 2021. Chris Reeder learned about IHA when one of her clients decided to purchase a house through our Purchase Repair Homeownership program. IHA is very appreciative and we hope to work with Chris more in the future with our homeownership participants.

IHA Board Recruitment

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 14:03:17 GMT

Interested in serving on IHA's Board?

Interfaith Housing Alliance, Inc. (IHA) is seeking volunteer board members that help IHA carry out its mission of strengthening communities by providing affordable housing opportunities and supportive services to improve the quality of life and economic stability for seniors, working families and individuals.

IHA is a community housing development organization. As such, we are committed to having one third of our board representation be low to moderate income individuals. Applicants may reside in any county we serve in Allegany, Washington, Frederick, Carroll, Ann Arundel, and Montgomery counties in Maryland and Franklin County, Pennsylvania.

IHA’s volunteer board members make up the governing body of the organization. They support our mission and affordable housing programming by participating in board and committee meetings, introducing IHA to new partners, donors, and stakeholders. This governance board meets virtually, one time per month; the monthly time commitment is two to four hours.

Interfaith Housing Alliance is looking for board members with diverse backgrounds so we can better address the full community we serve. This includes persons of color, persons of any (adult) age group, persons of diverse racial, gender, sexual orientation, disability, and socio-economic backgrounds. Individuals with lived experience in low-income housing encouraged to apply.

Please email your interest to IHA’s CEO, Jodie Ostoich at jostoich@interfaithhousing.org

Tips for First Time Homeowners

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 14:00:38 GMT

10 Tips for First Time Homeowners

If you have hardwood flooring do not spend money on expensive “hardwood floor cleaners.” Instead mix 1 part Windex with 10 parts water in a spray bottle.
If you have an interior door that rubs on the jamb and is hard to close, try removing one of the hinge screws opposite of where it is rubbing and insert a 3” screw. Most times it will pull the jamb back enough to prevent rubbing.
Keep your gutters clean -if you do not the water will sheet flow over blocked gutters and run down the exterior walls of your home. It could enter your home through old and brittle caulking on the way down and then into your basement if you have bad drainage.
Bathroom caulking -If you have ceramic in a tub or shower it should always be caulked in the 90-degree corners, where the ceramic sits on the tub and where the tub sits on a ceramic floor. You always want to prevent the water from contacting the underlying wood members.
Running toilets are costing you money. Most times it is the rubber flapper that needs replaced. They can be purchased for a few dollars at a hardware store.
Stop-do not call an electrician if you have outlets that do not work. Check these 2 things. First, all outlets that are within 6’ of a water source are called GFCI protected. They are overly sensitive and trip very easily. Their purpose is to prevent shock. Typically, some of the outlets on your kitchen counter, bath vanities, and at your electrical panel will have test and reset buttons. Find the one that is tripped and reset it. If it continues to trip, then you should call an electrician. Secondly, many rooms in your home may be on what is called a switched receptacle-this is where ½ of a duplex outlet will be worked by a wall switch. The purpose is so when entering a room without an overhead light you can flip the switch to access a lamp.
Sealing decks . If done properly this will further the lifespan of the wood members 2-fold. Make sure you do this when the wood is completely dry. The best time is mid-summer. If you are a do it yourselfer and want to build a deck, make sure that all your lumber is rated “ground contact”.
If you need window parts , be aware of contractors who tell you that the “whole window needs replaced.” There is a website called swisco.com that can get almost any window part that was made. A neighbor got an estimate for $1,250 for a window replacement. He was able to get the part on this website for under $5.
Hose bibbs -VERY IMPORTANT-as soon as the weather starts to get chilly make sure to turn off your exterior hose spigots at the interior hose bibb shutoff, unhook any hoses and then turn on the exterior spigot to release any water that is trapped.
Do not spend hundreds of dollars on an exterminator to get rid of ants. Terro makes a gel product that if you follow the instructions will eliminate most problems.

Summer Newsletter Quarterly Grant Review

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 13:53:51 GMT

IHA is proud to announce two grants received this past quarter from our community partners

In March 2021, the organization was awarded a $100,000 grant from E*TRADE Bank, which was recently acquired by Morgan Stanley. This grant supports IHA in its ongoing quest to create more affordable housing opportunities for low- to moderate-income community members. It also allows IHA to continue supporting families on their path to financial stability through individualized programming, which includes educational workshops, our homeownership program, and supportive services for our tenants.

In April 2021, IHA was awarded a $25,000 Community Partnership Grant from Frederick County Government. This grant supports IHA’s three financial dignity and empowerment workshops: Credit Café; Your Prescription for Financial Health; and Ready, Set, Go… Home! In Credit Café, participants work specifically to improve their credit. Your Prescription for Financial Health teaches participants about budgeting, saving, asset-building, and healthy spending. Ready, Set, Go… Home! helps participants understand the homebuying process from start to finish.

IHA is so grateful for this support and for the value our partners continue to see in our work. Together, we are helping our community members build a more financially secure future for themselves and their families.

Meet Ron Morris, VP of Construction and MVP to our homeownership participants!

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 13:49:05 GMT

Ron Morris, IHA’s Vice President of Construction/Development has 35+ years of experience in the construction field. He provides training and oversight for the participants of our homeownership program. He also establishes and maintains productive relationships with lenders, realtors, sponsors, public officials, vendors, and clients. We truly adore his personality and are proud to have him part of our IHA family.

Enjoy some quotes from vendors and clients:

“Ron Morris is absolutely wonderful to work with. He is very knowledgeable, professional, and understanding (scheduling, materials etc.) I truly wish that everyone we did work with were as great to work with as him!” – from Andy Adelsberger, Blue Line Roofing & Exteriors

“What a pleasure to work with Mr. Ron Morris. He is the perfect example of a person with a genuine personality which demonstrates his sincere concern, dedication, appreciation, and full attention to all aspects of construction details, laws, and standards. Most of all a sincere understanding how to communicate extremely well with all kinds of personalities. We appreciated his dedication and hard work. Always wishing him the best now and forever. Thank you, Ron.” – from Vivian & Rey Delaluz

“Ron is an amazing person, who is the backbone of the Purchase Repair Program at IHA.  He goes above and beyond to ensure that the new homeowners have the tools and resources to complete their repairs.  Ron teaches the participants about how to be a homeowner.  Ron genuinely cares for each participant deeply.  He takes a personal approach to their success.   Ron is a wonderful asset to IHA.” from Kelly Losquadro, REALTOR, ABR Long & Foster

“We enjoyed all our contacts with Ron. He was unfailingly cheerful, brought good materials to us, and was directly helpful for many of the projects. He managed to be always available for questions, practical, and timely all the while giving the impression of being relaxed and laid back. In fact, it was Ron who was the first representative of IHA I met at a multi-vendor, multi-service housing display - I think it was at the ARC building. He was most encouraging about the possibility of entering the USDA Rural Repair Program and gave me the courage to apply. My husband and I both give him kudos for all his work with IHA. Thanks for the opportunity to sing his praises.” – from Jan Guillory

“Easiest person to work with ever more like a friend.” – from Pat Toney, Fredericktowne Electric

“My experience with Ron were always very good. He is a professional with solidarity, who guided me in repairs in my house. Everything was such a nice experience, that I would definitely do again. Thank you, Ron!” – from Fernando Munoz

“Ron and I go way back to his supervisor days at Ryan homes. A true gentleman, after meeting him, and helping him with his project he was kind enough to spread the word within the company to others. What can I say, over two decades later we still have the opportunity to work for one of the largest builders in the area. So, for me all roads lead to Ron Morris!” – from Pete Pantazopoulos, Sunshine Cleaning and Restoration

“Mr. Ron has been very cooperative, and we also benefited from his long experience in the field of work in construction. He answered all our questions and gave great advice. We are very grateful and thankful for him. Thank you for all the hard work Ron.” - from Mohammed Ibrahim &Faten Alwan

“Ron was extremely helpful throughout this process. He was always there to help with the renovations and set up vendors to work with. He took a load off my shoulders... He was a calming factor when I got stressed which was very helpful. I appreciate Ron for all he did to help me with my dream home. His help truly was the best benefit of the program.” - from Caprice Webb

“I have interacted with Ron Morris a number of times in my role as a Home Inspector for some of the homes in IHA’s Purchase Repair. Through those interactions, Ron has always impressed me with his knowledge and expertise of homes and how they are built, as well as by his commitment to the mission of IHA. With his efforts and assistance many individuals and families have achieved their goal of homeownership. It has been a pleasure and an honor to know Ron during my time with IHA.” – from Mark Long, Peace of Mind Home Inspections & IHA Board Member

“Ron is patient and calm. He listened to our questions about the house and how to make the repairs. He recommended businesses to complete our inspections and make the repairs we couldn't handle. We really felt like Ron was experienced and we could trust his recommendations. He was understanding and took time with us to answer our questions. I always had a long list of questions to ask him and after I talked with him, he put my mind at ease. I felt more knowledgeable to make a plan. He explained our choices and the repairs that could be made. He explained the pros and cons to sky lights in the ceiling, sump pumps in the basement, rerouting rainwater from the house foundation, do's and don'ts with insulation, who to call to inspect our chimneys, who to call to install our radon vent, best deals for window installations. The list goes on and on. I was always relieved to talk with him. We felt like he wanted to help us achieve our goals to improve our new home. It was reassuring to have Ron's eyes on our home and the repairs that needed completed. Ron is an expert at home construction/repair. He visited several houses with us we were interested in buying. He saw and told us the repairs that would be needed and what we needed to consider, which led us to make our decisions. He knew what the inspectors would see. He noticed propane tank pipes routed incorrectly from the garage to the fireplace, the asphalt skirt at the end of the driveway and the drainage underneath weren't code and would cost a lot to repair, the insulation in the walls wasn't thick enough and the heating bills would be high. Ron is laid back and easy going. While I was purchasing and repairing my home with IHA, I went through an extremely difficult event in my life. Ron understood I was overwhelmed. We were at the end of making our repairs, and I hadn't sent him my update reports. He reached out to me, excused me from writing the updates and accepted an email describing where we were in the process to share with his team. I was also working with a program who was weatherizing my home. They were running bathroom vents through the roof and fixing the attic insulation to code. Ron understood the value of this to me and extended a deadline as best as he could to accommodate us. I remember the first delivery of materials he left for us were in a Home Depot bucket. We thought "we didn't need a bucket." Boy, were we wrong!! We haven't stopped using that bucket!! Thank you, Ron, for your foresight!! Ron has a positive outlook and a great sense of humor. At one of the meetings with the moms in the program like me who were in the process of buying a home to repair, Ron reminded us, "ok ladies, so were not looking for a house with granite countertops and stainless-steel kitchens. You're looking for a home that needs repairs." We all laughed. We enjoyed working with him. As I said, talking with him was uplifting. He recently met with me to answer some of my questions about my mom's home, and I smiled big when his truck pulled in the driveway. He joked with me because my measuring tape and his were measuring differently. I decided to go with his! It was so good to see him and talk with him. Ron was one of several people at IHA who were like a team I trusted to help me make the best decisions while buying and repairing my new home. It was a relief to have Ron and the IHA staff help me through this huge process. I felt like I was in good hands, and I appreciate the work Ron does for me, my family and for others. For myself and others, Ron's work is life changing. My life and my children's lives are entirely different (better) because of Ron and IHA.” - from Heather Rice

It is with immense gratitude that we recognize Ron Morris and his contributions to all IHA affordable housing programs: self-help housing construction, purchase repair homeownership program and, the low-income housing tax credit program. During Ron’s tenure with IHA, he acted as the construction supervisor on the building of 40 self-help housing units and 52 purchase repair units. Ron also provided construction oversight to five low-income housing tax credit rental properties adding 193 affordable rental units to the IHA portfolio.

Sadly, Ron’s legacy at IHA is coming to an end. In February of 2021, Ron informed us that he will be retiring in 2023. Ron, we will miss hearing your cheerful whistles and “it’s Friday, it’s Friday!” singing through the office.

IHA will be hiring a construction manager in the next year. Interested parties please contact Jodie Ostoich at jostoich@interfaithhousing.org .

In Remembrance of those lost during the Pandemic

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 13:44:24 GMT

In Remembrance of those lost during the Pandemic

“I would like to honor three special people:  John Carmack, Timothy Overs and Barbara Myers.  John Carmack was my Father.  He did not die of Covid but cancer during the pandemic.  Losing him during the pandemic affected how he lived his last days, the visitors he could have and how he was able to be mourned by his love ones.  Timothy Overs and Barbara Myers did pass from Covid.  They both resided in a nursing home that I would visit so there was no good-bye.  When I visited them last, I had no idea that would be the last time I saw them.”

Picture memories/details from the above collage are below:

“The keepsake I would like to share is bird feeders and the significance of the Cardinal to me.  My Dad loved to feed and watch the birds and squirrels. The bird feeder in the photo and many more feeders are now in my yard feeding the birds in his memory everyday just as he would have done.  However, as many may know, the cardinal is said to appear when angels (loved ones passed) are near.  So for me, every time I see a cardinal I actually say out loud, "Hi Dad", or "Hi Mr. Tim" or even "Hi Barb".  I drive for a living, so whether I am looking in my backyard or driving around Frederick County for work, I know these three individuals are near all the time by the presence of the Cardinal.”

“This photo means a lot to me because my grandmother meant everything to me. She was not only my grandmother but she was like my mother. We were so close. I always had her as my go to. This is a photo while she was in the hospital and I was at her bedside. I stood by her until she couldn't fight her battle any longer. My grandmother will always remain in my heart.”

“This small hand painted rock is my most precious memento, reminding me of my mother who I lost during the pandemic. My mother was an avid painter, not professional, but just for her own enjoyment. When we were children, she painted a mural on our large picture window to celebrate every holiday. She volunteered for every school event that required posters and decorations. In her mid-40’s, Mom was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. In her mid-50’s she became a resident with Way Station, no longer able to support herself and was also suffering from mental illness that she had been dealing with since her late 20’s. This rock was her gift to me one Christmas and represented her attempt to conquer her arthritis pain and to create something of value out of nothing. I have treasured it ever since.”

If you would like to share your remembrance of someone you lost during the pandemic, please send it to ciggles@interfaithhousing.org and we will be happy to include it in our next newsletter.

June is Homeownership Month

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 13:31:38 GMT

June is Homeownership Month!

Most renters share the dream of owning their own home someday, as do most of the clients we serve in our programming efforts to provide extensive financial education and housing counseling to prepare them for their future goals, especially homeownership.

Financial education and housing counseling is crucial toward making a difference in the lives of residents who are at risk of losing their homes through foreclosure, vulnerable to identity theft and debt reduction scams, and/or unable to create and manage household budgets that foster credit repair and asset building, such as homeownership.

Homeownership has the unique potential to break the cycle of poverty for low-income families, especially for the next generation. Low-income families that become homeowners often accumulate wealth and become more self-sufficient, depending less on state and federally supported assistance programs. They have improved mental and physical health and become more active in their communities. These families are also able to offer their children a greater sense of stability. This translates into children often making better grades and staying in school longer. In addition, success for low-income homeowners improves with pre- and post-purchase financial and homeowner education and counseling. Financially informed, low-income families with mortgages of appropriate size and with reasonable terms prove to be successful homeowners, benefiting themselves, their children, their neighborhoods, and the communities in which they live.

IHA has helped more than 300 families attain their dream of homeownership. Of these, approximately 60% are single mothers who wanted to be strong role models for their children – to show that “where there is a will there is a way” to reach your goals in life. More than 80% of these households needed financial counseling before they became qualified for a mortgage. Some of these households took several years before they were ready, but they refused to give up on their dream, and IHA provided the guidance they required every step of the way.

Homeownership programs like IHA’s help to reduce, even eliminate, the racial and income barriers that have historically and still currently exist, allowing families increased access to neighborhoods with better school districts and safer living conditions. For more information on IHA’s current homeownership program, please visit https://www.interfaithhousing.org/purchase-repair-homeownership .

In Remembrance

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 13:00:26 GMT

Although it is hard to believe that we have been living with the COVID-19 pandemic for more than a year, we know that tragically, many of us have lost family members, good friends and colleagues to this unforgiving virus.

In honor of your loved one’s memory, we are inviting you to share a photo of a keepsake you possess that helps you keep their spirit alive. Along with the image of the keepsake, please share why this memento is so important to you and why it represents your love and memory of the person you lost.

Losing a loved one to the COVID-19 pandemic has been especially hard since we weren’t able to celebrate their lives like we normally would. Hopefully sharing what your loved ones meant to you with others can help bring you a bit of comfort in these uncertain times.

We will publish these remembrances in our Summer 2021 Newsletter. Please send to criggles@interfaithhousing.org by May 15th.

Our hearts go out to everyone who has experienced such a painful loss

By: Carol Riggles

From Sacrifice to Success

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 13:00:24 GMT

Mohammed and Faten contacted Interfaith Housing Alliance in September 2019, wanting to know more about the Purchase Repair Homeownership Program.

Mohammed and Faten contacted Interfaith Housing Alliance in September 2019, wanting to know more about the Purchase Repair Homeownership Program. Faten’s close friend, Denise Taylor, had shared her wonderful homeownership experience with IHA. Denise came to IHA in July 2014 and told Faten how much Carol Riggles, Homeownership Program Manager, provided great guidance and assistance with qualifying for USDA-RD 502 Direct Loan and IHA’s Homeownership Program. Hearing Denise’s great experience gave Faten hope for her homeownership dream to come true. What truly sparked Faten and Mohammed's interest in the program was the very low interest rate and the fact that they were able to make repairs to a home to gain equity.

Mohammed and Faten’s journey has been far from easy. Immigrants from Baghdad, Iraq – they felt they had no choice but to leave their country because it became too dangerous to stay when the war started. Mohammed and Faten met when they both worked as journalists in Iraq. Mohammed had completed 4 years in college to become an attorney but found employment at a TV station as a reporter. Faten was a teacher for fine arts who became a journalist working on parenting stories. Working for the same TV station, they fell in love and got married.

Faten got contracted with a US company working with American Troops completing reports on Iraq immigration. The 5-mile commute to work which should take 10 minutes took over 3 hours due to security check points having to inspect each car for devices and bombs. It was just too scary and stressful for Faten. Faten then got threats to be killed. Her employer offered to protect her as she worked in a green zone, but Faten was fearful to have those people follow her and kill her family and her. Luckily, Mohammed had just received an offer from an Egypt TV station who saw his TV reporting in Iraq and wanted to hire him.

They left as refugees and lived in Egypt for 5 years. Mohammed and Faten got approved to go to the US right after. They have been living in the United Stated for now 11 years and are very thankful for being able to live in this amazing country feeling safe, stable, and happy. Mohammed and Faten had to start from zero again when they arrived in the US. Having to live in apartments was very hard since they were raised in single family homes. The last apartment they lived in, they struggled with horrible maintenance. Leaks in the bathroom ceiling and constant pest issues. Several pieces of furniture and beds had to be thrown away numerous times. Mohammed and Faten’s goal and dream was to give their kids a safe and healthy single-family home.

It was a process to get their green cards and have stable and reliable income to qualify for USDA-RD 502 Direct Loan. Mohammed and Faten received their certificate of eligibility to start officially shopping for a home on September 22, 2020. Their Realtor and Board Member of Interfaith Housing Alliance Inc., Patricia Galloway, showed them numerous homes and finally submitted an offer on their dream home October 14, 2020.

Mohammed and Faten promised their kids they would make the home look nice since they thought it looked creepy at first. The most important part for them was the location of the home, the schools, and the layout of the home. The first time they saw the home, they told themselves, they can take out the carpet due to Faten’s severe allergies, they can paint the walls and were eager to finish the approved repairs by IHA and USDA-RD.

Lana, Mohammed and Faten’s daughter, was excited to share she helped paint. With a big smile she shared this was the first time she had her own room with privacy and beautiful view of mountains. Taym, Mohammed and Faten’s son, was happy he can finally have his own bed and enjoys making it. Lana and Taym enjoy playing in the playground set and running in the big yard. Now, their goal is to convince their parents to get a dog.

Mohammed and Faten feel blessed and thank god for everything. With a lot of patience during the process and maintaining positivity, they thanked everyone who assisted with the process to make their dream become a reality. Faten now truly feels calm and safe knowing her children have a place to call their forever home. Faten stated “I can see my children grow up here and go off to college. This home is for them.”

By: Vivian Duran

Who Pays the Rent?

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 13:00:23 GMT

During a pandemic when businesses are shut down, jobs and wages are lost and eviction moratoriums are in place, who pays the rent?

During a pandemic when businesses are shut down, jobs and wages are lost, and eviction moratoriums are in place, who pays the rent?

IHA not only develops affordable housing but provides property management as well. In 2020, IHA served 314 households (688 residents) in our rental communities across Maryland and south-central Pennsylvania. These residents typically earn between 10% to 60% of the area's median income (AMI).

Early in the pandemic, rent collection rates hovered around 96%. This was due to many of our residents being front-line workers who continued to work in industries such as food service, retail, delivery, and healthcare. Those who were laid off were able to receive unemployment which helped to cover their rent.

In Frederick County, Maryland, local funders came together to create the COVID-19 Collaborative. This collaborative was focused on providing immediate funding and crisis support to nonprofits serving the most vulnerable populations. IHA applied for and received a total of $25,000 from the following local funders in support of its local tenants:

Ausherman Family Foundation-$10,000,

The COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund of The Community Foundation of Frederick County in partnership with The Mark and Susan Butt Saturday Morning Fund-$5000,

United Way of Frederick County-$5000,

Delaplaine Foundation, Inc.-$5000.

IHA leveraged these funds on behalf of our Frederick County tenants with unpaid rent balances due to circumstances related to COVID-19. Many tenants required this assistance because their unemployment benefits had not yet come through or because they had been exposed to the virus. Others had lost wages either due to quarantine requirements or to reduced work hours while homeschooling their children.

On behalf of our tenants across Maryland, IHA was also able to leverage rental assistance funds from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) who managed the CARES Act funding. IHA assisted tenants with making the application for the funds. In two different grants provided to tenants, IHA received $27,000 to cover past due rents owed by tenants. The remaining unpaid rent balances were written off as a loss to the property and were not left hanging over the head of those who live most closely on the edge.

By: Rachel Gardner

1 Year of Virtual Work

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 12:59:49 GMT

1 Year of Virtual Work

It has been a year since the world changed. Can you believe it? It has been a year where we have gotten used to common words and phrases such as “pivot” and “new normal.” It has been a year of missing co-workers, friends, and family. No doubt, it has been a year of challenges.

It has also been a year of great change at Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA). In response to the pandemic, IHA has had to reimagine how we deliver our programs and services to the community. On July 1, 2020, we relocated and downsized our corporate office, signaling a transition to community-based and virtual service delivery platforms. Staff members are now equipped with the technology and resources they need to continue service provision remotely during this and future crises.

IHA facilitated many of its operations and programming virtually during 2020 and into 2021. We were excited to begin offering these virtual opportunities to those we serve, as they erase barriers to participation, such as transportation and childcare. Adopting this service delivery method has expanded program access and ensures the safety and health of our staff and participants. We plan to resume in-person workshops when it is safe to do so to reach those for whom technology presents a barrier.

To make this transition to remote work possible, IHA implemented several capacity-building technology upgrades. In 2020, IHA purchased laptops and miscellaneous home office equipment for staff members. IHA also began the integration of a customer relationship management (CRM) system, which will upgrade not only client records but also IHA’s donor and grant management systems. In addition, IHA has upgraded its property management, payroll, and financial software to increase internal efficiency. Lastly, IHA launched a redesign of its website to increase external visibility and accessibility within our community.

In “normal” years, most nonprofits would not plan for this much change; however, 2020 did not give us a choice. IHA has had a year of which we can be proud – a year where our staff stepped up and made it happen for those we serve. Looking back at 2020 helps us look forward to 2021 and beyond. The strides that IHA has made during the last year have laid the foundation for our future growth.

By: Jodie Ostoich and Rachel Gardner

IHA participates in the Unity Campaign for Frederick County

lames@interfaithhousing.org (Lacy Ames) — Tue, 02 Mar 2021 16:20:18 GMT

IHA RAISES FUNDS TOWARDS THE CREDIT CAFE PROGRAM THROUGH UNITY CAMPAIGN

IHA is raising funds towards our Credit Café program. Financial education is important to everyone and being able to offer this educational resource at NO COST to our clients helps provide them life changing advice to manage their credit. Every $25 donated covers the cost of running a credit report and $50 also covers a personalized credit review advising session.

To Donate: Text Unity202137 to 71777 OR visit this link: https://app.mobilecause.com/vf/Unity2021/team/IHA2021

Single Mom on Her Way to Financial Freedom

lames@interfaithhousing.org (Lacy Ames) — Mon, 11 Jan 2021 13:57:37 GMT

Single Mom on Her Way to Financial Freedom

Kristina is a single mom to two teenage boys. She eventually found herself in a tough situation, where she had acquired a lot of debt over the years. She thought she would never be able to pay it all off.

Kristina had always had an interest in homeownership but like many others thought that she would never be able to realize such a dream on a single household income. She began to feel hopeful, though, when one of her single-mom friends told her about the success she’d had with Interfaith Housing Alliance’s (IHA) Purchase Repair Homeownership program - and that it all started with an IHA workshop called the Credit Cafe. That was all Kristina needed to hear.

Kristina now believes “everyone should attend the Credit Café so that they can learn how to manage their credit. Financial freedom is an amazing feeling, knowing you can get better rates, save money, and get out of the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle. So, everyone should go to the Credit Café to learn ways to pay off debt and increase those credit scores.”

Kristina knew her first step to homeownership was to pay off her debt, so she made the leap. In April 2018, she attended IHA’s Credit Café where she participated in a group workshop to learn general tips and tricks for improving and building her credit score. Afterwards, she met one-on-one with a credit advisor who guided her on how to apply the tips and tricks she learned in the workshop to increase her personal credit score and decrease her debt quickly.

Kristina’s journey to financial freedom did not come easy. It required even more sacrifice before she could begin reaping the benefits. She began picking up extra hours at her job, persevering through long work hours and saving up money to pay down her debts. She started introducing the Credit Café’s tips and tricks into her everyday spending habits and became a member of IHA’s first-ever monthly Single Moms group.

Just nine months later, Kristina returned to the Credit Café where her advisor delivered some great news: she was able to pay off $2,402 in outstanding debt and raise her credit score from 578 to 637. This amazing accomplishment in such a short period of time is a true inspiration to others out there with similar stories and experiences.

“I haven't purchased a home quite yet and I had to seek pre-approval through another lender. But this wouldn't have been made possible if it wasn't for me attending the Credit Cafés. I have become so knowledgeable on how to control my credit score and it keeps climbing.” IHA has no doubt that Kristina will achieve her dream of homeownership after all she has already accomplished with her finances. To register for a Credit Café, contact Lacy Ames at 301-788-0239 or lames@interfaithhousing.org.

Consider Donating to IHA!

lames@interfaithhousing.org (Lacy Ames) — Tue, 24 Nov 2020 18:56:44 GMT

Text IHAHoliday to 71777 to donate today!

New Website for IHA!

lames@interfaithhousing.org (Lacy Ames) — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 13:53:05 GMT

A Fresh Look for IHA!

After many months of planning, organizing, creating, and strategizing, IHA finally has a new website that is more user friendly to staff and clients alike! If you have any feedback - send it to IHA at Info@interfaithhousing.org !

3 Credit Café Thursday's Remain in 2020!

lames@interfaithhousing.org (Lacy Ames) — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 13:47:36 GMT

Get a 2020 vision into your personal credit report before 2020 comes to an end!

IHA has 3 more Credit Café Thursday's before the end of 2020! Take advantage of this FREE 2-part workshop opportunity TODAY !

Participants learn how to better understand their personal credit and how to manage and/or improve it.

Registration is REQUIRED so please contact Lacy Ames at 301-788-0239 (call/text) or Lames@interfaithhousing.org to request the date/time you wish to attend and to have a registration form sent your way!

IHA is NOW VIRTUAL!

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 19:26:00 GMT

On July 11, 2020 IHA will be celebrating 30 years of affordable housing development and preservation. Like many other nonprofits, we have had to find a different way of celebrating this year. We hope you have enjoyed our home ownership stories during June, National Home Ownership month. Please stay tuned in July as we celebrate IHA Day on July 11.

We wanted to share with our friends and partners that IHA is downsizing our corporate office. The corona virus pandemic has caused us to re-imagine how we deliver our programs. We are transitioning to community based and virtual service delivery platforms.

In the coming weeks and months, IHA will be providing online home ownership classes, financial education classes and credit cafes. We are excited to offer opportunities to our participants that erase barriers to participation such as transportation and childcare. By adapting this service delivery method, we can expand program access as well. Not to worry, when the time is right, we have space to offer in-person workshops again.

We are pleased to announce that IHA will become part of the Federated Charities family in downtown Frederick beginning July 1, 2020. Our new address is 22 S. Market Street, Suite 217 Frederick, MD 21701.

Only the most essential financial processes are moving to our new office at the Federated Charities building. We will no longer be able to accept walk in traffic and instead encourage people to call our office, connect via our website or Facebook page, or email staff directly. Our phone number remains 301-662-4225.

Thank you for being on this journey with us over the years. Take care of each other.

Monthly Credit Cafes!

Wed, 06 Nov 2019 14:29:00 GMT

Upcoming Credit Cafes:

Thursday, November 21st

Time: 4:00-7:00 PM
Location: Bernard Brown Community Center
629 N Market St Frederick, MD 21701

Thursday, December 19th

Time: 4:00 – 7:00 PM
Location: IHA Office
5301 Buckeystown Pike, Suite 320 Frederick, MD 21704

Thursday, January 16th

Time: 4:00 – 7:00 PM
Location: Bernard Brown Community Center
629 N Market Street Frederick, MD 21701

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED – Contact Lacy Ames at lames@interfaithhousing.org or 301-788-0239

Click here to download the registration form: Credit Café Authorization and Participant Profile Intake Form

After 2 Years, Joanne Purchased a Home!

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 17:23:00 GMT

Today, Joanne was able to close on her forever home through IHA’s Purchase Repair Homeownership Program. She began her journey with IHA in January 2017 attending both our Credit Café workshop and our 4-part Ready, Set, Go, Home workshop series.

Also, thank you to Village Settlements, Inc. for facilitating her settlement. Please help IHA congratulate Joanne on making her homeownership dreams come true!

(Pictured is Joanne & her realtor: Kelly Losquadro of Long & Foster Real Estate team)

$tories & Cents – New IHA Workshop

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 14:36:00 GMT

Check out IHA’s Newest workshop called “$tories and Cents” is being offered on Wednesday, August 1st for Parents and Children (Suggested Ages 4-9) at the IHA Office! Program information is below in the flyer. Make sure to register soon as space is limited and the workshop is sure to fill up quickly!

520 Ribbon Cutting Celebration

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 14:18:00 GMT

On June 11, 2019, IHA was finally able to hold a day of celebration as we cut the ribbon for 520 N. Market St. Apartments. ... Read more »

We’ve reached over 1000 Volunteer Hours!

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 14:07:00 GMT

IHA’s volunteers donated more than 1000 hours of service to our organization over the past fiscal year! There was approximately 61 volunteers who donated their ... Read more »

Thank You to IHA’s Day of Giving Sponsors

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 13:59:00 GMT

IHA’s Day of Giving would not have been successful without the generous support of our sponsors!

THANK YOU to:

Graphcom
Zavos Architecture & Design
Keller Stonebraker Insurance
Linton Shafer Warfield & Garrett, P.A. (LSWG)
Conifer Realty, LLC
Wright-Gardner Insurance
Julie Gaver Discovery
Middletown Valley Bank
Taft Mills Group

IHA’s 1st Annual Day of Giving Results

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 13:32:00 GMT

IHA is very thankful for everyone who donated to our 1st Annual Day of Giving! 96 donors gave to our text to donate campaign raising over $6000! This is a fantastic accomplishment for our first annual Day of Giving!

IHA’s Day of Giving 7.11.19

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 13:26:00 GMT

Today is IHA’s 1st Annual Day of Giving!

On this day, IHA hopes to bring more awareness to our mission, gain new support and donors. Every dollar donated goes toward supporting IHA’s mission to strengthen communities by providing affordable housing opportunities and supportive services to improve the quality of life and economic stability for seniors, working families and individuals.

Consider supporting IHA on this day! https://app.mobilecause.com/vf/IHA

Vivian & Reynaldo's Home Dedication

Sun, 23 Jun 2019 18:59:00 GMT

IHA gathered on June 23, 2019 to celebrate Vivian & Reynaldo’s completion of their home repairs and witness a blessing of their new home. They purchased a home through our Purchase-Repair Homeownership program at the end of 2018.

For more details check out this Frederick News Post article:

https://www.fredericknewspost.com/news/social_issues/peace-to-this-house-local-couple-benefit-from-nonprofit-s/article_16195207-910b-5533-8f38-c5a073336f09.html?fbclid=IwAR3NI4GjjnQqxaKHBAo4jUABvZ2hQ5_CEoE25ZdB4fBGVWV8sofDEzQZf0c

Summer Credit Cafe Dates

Mon, 10 Jun 2019 16:10:00 GMT

Credit Café is a FREE workshop offered the 3rd Thursday of every month. Attendees receive a 30 minute advising session to review their personal credit report with a trained advisor to learn more about the current status of their credit. A group workshop is also provided called “Mastering Your Credit” which details general credit information along with tips and tricks to improve, maintain, or build your credit. Registration is required, please contact Lacy Ames to get started today at 301-788-0239 or LAmes@interfaithhousing.org

Upcoming Dates:

June 20th, 2019 – IHA Office

July 18th, 2019 – IHA Office

August 15th, 2019 – IHA Office

Helping Single Moms program has received support from the United Way

Thu, 30 May 2019 20:29:00 GMT

IHA’s Helping Single Moms Overcome Obstacles on their Path to Financial Stability and Emotional Well-Being program was partially funded through the United Way of Frederick’s ... Read more »

IHA’s Day of Giving – 7.11.19

Wed, 29 May 2019 19:55:00 GMT

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

IHA is having their very own Day of Giving on July 11, 2019! The day is special to our organization because it was the day we were founded and began pursuing our mission of building stronger communities through the creation of affordable housing opportunities and supportive services.

To read more about our impact follow this link: https://app.mobilecause.com/vf/IHA
OR text the message IHA to the number 71777 to receive a link in your messages for later use!

Monthly Credit Cafes!

Mon, 22 Apr 2019 17:59:00 GMT

Interested in learning more about how to build, maintain and/or repair your credit? Reach out to Lacy Ames at IHA about signing up for our FREE Credit Café!
The event occurs the 3rd Thursday of every month between 4:00-7:00 PM and includes a 1 hour group workshop and a 30 minute one-on-one advising session with a credit counselor.
Upcoming events:

Thursday, May 16th – Bernard Brown Community Center
Thursday, June 20th – Interfaith Housing Alliance Office

Contact Lacy: 301-788-0239 or LAmes@interfaithhousing.org

$20,000 Grant Award from Ausherman Family Foundation!

Mon, 22 Apr 2019 17:55:00 GMT

Words cannot express IHA’s gratitude for awarding us with this $20,000 grant. These funds support our Affordable Housing and Financial Stability Services Program which connects ... Read more »

Celebrate Resilient Women

Fri, 08 Mar 2019 18:59:00 GMT

Thank you to All Saints’ Episcopal Church of Frederick MD for celebrating our resilient woman, Executive Director Jodie Ostoich, and all the fierce, determined, strong women serving the Frederick community! Thank you also for awarding us a $500 grant to support our, “Helping Single Moms Overcome Obstacles on the Path to Financial Stability and Emotional Wellbeing” program. We couldn’t do this vital work without the generosity of great community partners like @allsaintsfredmd! #internationalwomensday #celebrateresilientwomen

Credit Cafe to be offered MONTHLY in 2019!

Mon, 04 Mar 2019 16:49:00 GMT

Exciting news at IHA! We are now able to offer the Credit Café to individuals seeking credit counseling monthly starting January 2019! The event will take place on the THIRD Thursday of every month. Every other month the location of the event will switch between the Bernard Brown Community Center (629 N Market St Frederick, MD 21701) and the IHA office (5301 Buckeystown Pike, Suite 320, Frederick MD 21704).

Contact Lacy Ames at Lames@interfaithhousing.org or 301-788-0239 to receive the registration form for an upcoming event!

Another Purchase-Repair Participant Closes on her house!

Mon, 04 Mar 2019 16:44:00 GMT

Vivian Delaluz purchased her new forever home through IHA’s Purchase-Repair Homeownership program! Congratulations Vivian, we are excited to be apart of your homeownership journey!

$40,000 Donation for IHA thanks to Dan Ryan Builders!

Mon, 04 Mar 2019 16:42:00 GMT

Dan Ryan Builders has been a continuous supporter and donor of IHA. We are very grateful for their generosity. Every dollar we receive helps IHA ... Read more »

Seeking Full Time – Frederick Maintenance Technician

Tue, 02 Oct 2018 13:23:00 GMT

Now Accepting Applications – 520 N Market Apartments

Fri, 31 Aug 2018 12:47:00 GMT

Applications will be accepted in the IHA office AFTER 9:00 AM on Tuesday, September 4, 2018. There is NO leasing office at the property yet, so all applications must be submitted to the main IHA office. The applications will not be accepted without everything listed on the application checklist (page 2). In addition, no applications will be accepted prior to the date/time listed above.

Applications can be downloaded from our website or a printed copy can be picked up from the IHA office.
http://www.interfaithhousing.org/programs/future-communities/

Here is a list of the application requirements:
1. Applicant(s) must review, sign, and date the Tenant Selection Criteria (page 7)
2. Applicant(s) must complete, sign, and date the application (page 12)
3. Applicant(s) must bring Social Security Cards and Photo ID’s of EVERYONE over 18 years of age and Social Security Cards and Birth Certificates for EVERYONE under 18 years of age
4. Applicant must submit a $25.00 money order made payable to 520 N. Market Apartments for the application fee

IHA Office Address:
IHA
5301 Buckeystown Pike, Suite 320
Frederick, MD 21704

IHA Office Hours:
Monday – Thursday 8:30-4:30 PM
Friday 8:30 – 1:00 PM
*IHA Office is closed on Monday, September 3rd for Labor Day

Thank You to Sagan, our 2018 Summer Intern!

Tue, 21 Aug 2018 13:30:00 GMT

Frederick County Workforce Services

Surprise Bingo for our Weinberg Residents!

Mon, 13 Aug 2018 14:16:00 GMT

Last week our senior residents at the Weinberg House were visited by the staff of Legal & General America. The organization hosted a fun bingo and provided some fantastic prizes for our residents. Thank you to Legal & General America for providing such a wonderful event to our residents!

IHA Offers a New Workshop for Single Moms Thanks to Women’s Giving Circle of Frederick County!

Wed, 27 Jun 2018 13:46:00 GMT

Thank you to The Women’s Giving Circle of Frederick County, Maryland for awarding IHA with a grant for the upcoming year! The grant will help support a workshop that hasn’t previously been offered beginning on July 11th called “Helping Single Moms Overcome Obstacles on the Path to Financial Stability and Emotional Well-Being”. IHA appreciates your continued support and we cannot wait to begin this new workshop adventure!

Please share the workshop information below with anyone who may benefit from it!

Thank You Avemco!

Wed, 27 Jun 2018 13:26:00 GMT

IHA would like to thank Avemco Insurance Company for their continued support and contribution towards our efforts to provide affordable housing opportunities in the communities we serve! Thanks Avemco! You are wonderful!

Avemco is an aviation insurance company located in Frederick, MD and an insurer of general aviation pilots and airplanes. They have been in business for over 60 years and in Frederick since 1982.

New CEO Open House – Wednesday, June 13th 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Thu, 31 May 2018 13:47:00 GMT

On April 2nd, IHA welcomed our new CEO/President, Jodie Ostoich. Now that Jodie has settled into her new position, we invite you to come visit our office to meet with her.

If you plan on attending please complete this form: Open House RSVP

RFP is open and IHA is now Accepting Proposals from Strategic Planning Consultants!

Tue, 15 May 2018 20:27:00 GMT

Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) in Frederick, Maryland, is seeking proposals from qualified consultants to assist in the creation of a strategic plan for the five years ending June 30, 2024. IHA desires a consultant or consulting firm that can offer the most advantageous balance of quality, performance, and price. The consultant will be expected to gather input from Board Members, IHA staff and community constituents to articulate goals, objectives, and strategies. The successful candidate will facilitate a Strategic Planning retreat in the 4th quarter of 2018 with Board Members. The consultant will also be expected to compile the deliverables into a comprehensive strategic plan report that will be presented to the Board of Directors at its December 2018 meeting.

To review additional information regarding the RFP, please follow the link below:
RFP IHA Strategic Planning 2018

IHA Awarded Frederick County Government Community Partnership Grant

Mon, 14 May 2018 12:54:00 GMT

On Friday, April 20th IHA was notified that we had been named a recipient of the Frederick County Government Community Partnership Grant! This $25,000 grant ... Read more »

June Bloom Housing Fair

Mon, 14 May 2018 12:49:00 GMT

Interested in learning more about affordable homeownership and rental opportunities in our community?

Join us for the June Bloom Housing Fair!

When : Saturday, June 16th from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm at 555 South Market Street.
Where : The Arc of Frederick County located at 555 South Market Street Frederick, MD 21701
Hosted by Frederick County Government Department of Housing and Community Development and Frederick Affordable Housing Council

Thank You M&T Bank!

Mon, 14 May 2018 12:46:00 GMT

IHA had a few visitors from M&T Bank on Thursday, May 3rd! Thank You M&T Bank for your donation of $2,500 towards our programs and ... Read more »

Meet Beatrice & Read About Her Pathway to Homeownership!

Mon, 14 May 2018 12:43:00 GMT

A very happy day in 2017, but Beatrice’s life hasn’t always been so happy. Married in Cameroon to her partner of 10 years in 1997, her husband left her in 1998 to come to the United States. Three years later, Beatrice joined her husband in the U.S. only to discover he was a different person.

The physical and mental abuse began immediately, and it was only after her oldest son, then 6 years old in 2011, stood up to his father asking him not to beat his mother. The father then turned on the boy, so Beatrice called 9.1.1. and the father was removed from the home of Beatrice and her 3 children. That was when she found out that her husband had borrowed a lot of money in her name only.
She knew she couldn’t afford to pay the money back, so she sold her home and paid off the tremendous debt her husband had kept hidden from her. She knew she was starting over, but never afraid of hard work, Beatrice continued to persevere. She worked the night shift at Frederick Memorial Hospital so she could care for her children during the day. She sought help from Heartly House and was given good advice on how to overcome the trauma a victim of domestic violence experiences. The Housing Authority helped her to find a place to live and referred her to the Prosperity Center’s Credit Café.

At the Credit Café, her advisor told her to “stick to Miss Carol and you are going to be blessed.” He was referring to Carol Riggles, IHA’s Homeownership Program Manager. And that is exactly what Beatrice did. She learned how to manage her credit, reduce her debt, raise her credit scores and save for the future.

This May, Beatrice will purchase a home in a wonderful neighborhood near excellent schools and not far from work. Beatrice says, “All I want is for my children to have a good life.” When asked what her next goal in life will be, Beatrice said she plans to move up her career path from a Certified Nursing Assistant to a Licensed Practical Nurse. We all have no doubt that Beatrice will make her new dream come true as well.

Volunteers Needed for IHA Office!

Wed, 11 Apr 2018 16:16:00 GMT

Thank You from Patricia!

Thu, 29 Mar 2018 13:59:00 GMT

Dear Friends,

As I prepare to retire and officially pass on the title of President/CEO, I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for your support, kindness and generosity over the past nine years. I have been very fortunate to have been given the trust and the encouragement to lead IHA through a multitude of change and new opportunities.

The past nine years saw unprecedented growth for IHA. IHA made tremendous strides during this time with the development of 7 affordable housing communities creating 299 units of affordable housing, 80 plus homeownership closings, and expansion of all of our residential support services and housing counseling programs.

The ability to do this has been much to the credit of a strong and dedicated staff, board and community who believes in what IHA is all about. I am honored to have served IHA these past nine years and am proud of the hard work of so many on behalf of those in need of housing stability.

I am looking forward to assisting with the transition and our housing development initiatives through the end of June, possibly longer.

I encourage all of you to continue your support of IHA as it enters this next chapter.

Thank you and warm wishes,

Patricia Motter,

President/CEO

Double Your Gift Today with the Ausherman Family Trust Challenge Grant!

Tue, 27 Mar 2018 14:04:00 GMT

Double Your Gift Today!

The Ausherman Family Trust has offered IHA a $20,000 Challenge Grant. For every dollar you donate, the Ausherman Family Trust will match it, dollar for dollar. With your support, IHA will meet the Ausherman Challenge and be able to raise $40,000 to continue supporting the individuals, families, and seniors who need our programs and affordable homes. Don’t Wait – Donate Today! Double the outcomes, Double IHA funds, with Ausherman Family Foundation Grant funds!

Emmitsburg, MD Residents – IHA has a Credit Cafe coming your way on April 11th!

Fri, 23 Mar 2018 14:05:00 GMT

IHA offers a unique workshop for FREE. The Credit Café allows attendees the opportunity to review their personal credit report/score with a credit advisor. The credit report is also pulled for FREE by IHA with the completion of a credit authorization form which is available by contacting Carol Riggles (information below) or by stopping by the IHA office. Register today to participate in this FREE event and take charge of your credit’s future!

What do you get with your registration?
You will be signed up for a 30 minute one-on-one advising appointment to review your personal credit report/score AND you attend an hour long presentation about how to “Repair Your Credit”!

Date: April 11th

Location: The Seton Center Outreach Office
16840 South Seton Ave, Emmitsburg, MD 21727

Schedule:

4 to 5pm – Appointments with Credit Advisors to review your credit score and report

5 to 6pm – “Repair Your Credit” workshop

6 to 7pm – Additional appointments with Credit Advisors

YOU MUST HAVE AN APPOINTMENT TO ATTEND!

Contact Carol Riggles at (301) 662-4225 x 1209 or email CRiggles@interfaithhousing.org

OR Contact Kelly Mays at (301_ 447-6102 x17 or email Kelly.mays@doc.org

IHA Selects a New President/CEO – Welcome Jodie Ostoich!

Fri, 16 Mar 2018 15:47:00 GMT

Announcement – IHA Selects a New President/CEO!

Contact: Jeff Dunn, Interfaith Housing Alliance Board Chairperson, jadunn01@gmail.com
or Hugh Gordon, Vice President of Development and Programs,
hgordon@interfaithhousing.org, (301) 662-4225 x1216

IHA’s Executive search committee comprised of current and past Board members worked the last four months to carefully consider and identify Motter’s successor on behalf of the Board. Chair, Jeff Dunn said that there were more than 100 applicants for the job and four strong finalists were identified. Jodie proved to be the best fit for the role which earned her the title of IHA’s new President/CEO. According to Dunn, “Ostoich did an excellent job during the screening and interview process showing us that she had a deep understanding of the importance of affordable housing for individuals, families and communities based on her prior work at Reach. Based on her knowledge, energy, and passion for the job, we are excited to have Jodie lead the next chapter of IHA’s growth and impact in the region. We are confident that Jodie will carry on the excellent work that Tricia has achieved during her tenure.”

Interfaith Housing Alliance was established in 1990 by a group of faith-based volunteers who understood the importance and need for affordable housing in the region. Ostoich will serve as only the third Executive for the organization and officially takes the helm on April 2nd. According to Mr. Dunn, IHA currently employs 17 full and part-time staff with a total budget in excess of $1,800,000.

IHA is seeking volunteers!

Wed, 28 Feb 2018 14:44:00 GMT

IHA is looking for a few volunteers to assist with various office administration duties! We are looking for volunteers who would be interested in coming to the office on a weekly basis (Monday-Friday) with hours falling between 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM.

Office Administration Duties

Purchase Repair Homeownership Program

If you or someone you know are interested in volunteering, please contact Lacy Ames at LAmes@interfaithhousing.org or 301-662-4225 ext. 1203

Join IHA’s next Credit Cafe on March 15th!

Wed, 28 Feb 2018 14:31:00 GMT

Schedule:

4 to 5pm – Appointments with Credit Advisors to review your credit score and report

5 to 6pm – “Repair Your Credit” workshop

6 to 7pm – Additional appointments with Credit Advisors

YOU MUST HAVE AN APPOINTMENT TO ATTEND!

Contact Carol Riggles at (301) 662-4225 x 1209 or email CRiggles@interfaithhousing.org

IHA Staff Members Give Back!

Fri, 09 Feb 2018 14:44:00 GMT

It’s that time of year to give back! IHA Staff Members are assisting with home repairs at Denise’s new home! Staff members are learning valuable home repair skills with the direction of Ron, our V.P. of Construction.

Denise is a Purchase-Repair Homeownership participant who has been working with Carol Riggles, our homeownership program manager, to find the right home for her. She finally found the perfect home and we’re excited to help her out on this beautiful day!

Weinberg Residents receive Thanksigiving Meals!

Fri, 09 Feb 2018 14:32:00 GMT

Thank you to SOAR for your wonderful donation!

The group of volunteers pictured here are from All Saint’s Episcopal Church who assisted with cooking meals for SOAR (Supporting older Adults through Resources, Inc.) and delivering them to the Weinberg House. The volunteers are made up of Oakwood High School Students, a school nurse, and college students who are home for Thanksgiving.

Each resident received a FULL Thanksgiving meal with all the trimmings to each resident, plus a bag of groceries and crotched lap blankets. Volunteers greeted residents with warm greetings and took the time to bring all items into each apartment. The residents were very thankful for the wonderful holiday gifts.

520 N Market St Progress Pictures

Fri, 09 Feb 2018 14:21:00 GMT

Check out the progress that has been made on the 520 N Market Street community that has a projected completed date of Fall 2018! The new building has been framed to duplicate the architectural appearance of the original building. Plus the parking garage now has a roof! We could not be more excited to see the progress that has been made. This community will provide much needed affordable housing to the downtown Frederick area.

The Prosperity Fair – A Wonderful Event!

Fri, 09 Feb 2018 14:10:00 GMT

The Prosperity Fair in January was a HUGE success. The event was hosted by the Frederick Coalition for Financial Success. Many organizations from the Frederick community gathered at the Prosperity Center, allowing Frederick County residents an evening opportunity to learn more about available services. Many individuals and families are unable to make typical business hours due to their jobs and other responsibilities, so this was a perfect opportunity for them. The event was so successful and well attended that there will be another one coming this summer! Keep an eye out as you do not want to miss attending!

For more details on the event, please read this news article:

Prosperity Fair aims to connect residents with services, promote financial success

IHA’s Newest Homeowners: Zam Pau and family!

Fri, 09 Feb 2018 14:03:00 GMT

Zam Pau and his wife Vung Sian recently became IHA’s newest first-time homebuyers!

“We took this family picture on the first day we moved into our new home. We have found peace of mind and happiness and the kids are able to play freely. I would like to thank Carol (IHA). She is so kind and it has been very easy to get in touch with her. We also received a lot of help from USDA-RD, IHA, and our agent Khai. Thank you everyone!” – Zampau’s Family

Immigrants from Myanmar (formerly known as Burma), they escaped the horrible violence and ethnic cleansing that has been occurring there and came to the US for a better life and are not US citizens. Zam is a welder at Canam Steel and he is the sole wage earner for his family of four. They have two sons, Soloman age 3 and Moses age 1. Zam’s income is just 28% of the Area Median Income (AMI) – 30% of the AMI is considered extremely low.

They had attended one of the Credit Cafes that IHA holds in partnership with the United Way and the Housing Authority at the Prosperity Center in Frederick and heard about IHA’s Purchase Repair Homeownership Program which is designed to help very low income families to become homeowners.They made an appointment to get started and learned how much they would need to save and how to correct the problems on their credit report.

The loan product IHA’s program uses is the USDA-RD 502 Direct and after IHA helped them to bundle their loan application, they waited to get their loan approval. Once they were approved they didn’t hesitate and quickly found a wonderful home in Frederick that needed a lot of repairs. However, they only have to do some of the repairs themselves (125 hours) and the rest of the work, such as a new roof, updated electrical, etc. is done by licensed contractors. Once the repairs are completed, which should only take two or three months at most, the home they purchased will be worth more than $12,000 than what they borrowed, which was the purchase price and the cost of the repairs. They also walked away from the closing table with a check for over $1,600!

Zam and Vung are so grateful for the help and opportunity that IHA’s homeownership program provided. Hours and hours of assistance from the credit counseling all the way through to the end of the repair process, all at no charge to them. They feel that without our help, they could never have made this happen by themselves. We are happy we could help them achieve their dream of finding a home they could afford that they could call their own. Their mortgage is a fixed rate of just 3.25%, and their monthly payments (which include their taxes and insurance) are $835 a month. The fair market rent published by HUD for a two-bedroom apartment in Frederick is almost $1,800.

Upcoming Ready, Set, Go… Home Workshop Series set to begin March 7th!

Wed, 17 Jan 2018 17:24:00 GMT

IHA’s next Credit Cafe is set for January 18th!

Wed, 13 Dec 2017 15:30:00 GMT

IHA’s next Credit Café is FAST approaching! Register today to participate in this FREE event and take charge of your credit’s future! What is the ... Read more »

IHA was nominated for #MyGivingStory Contest

Wed, 22 Nov 2017 13:40:00 GMT

Juliet, a 2016 Purchase-Repair Homeownership Participant, nominated IHA as her charity of choice in the #MyGivingStory contest.
If her story wins IHA will receive a $10,000 donation.

Help IHA and Vote for her story TODAY!
Each person can vote one time per day for the rest of November!

Juliet’s #MyGiving Story – Vote Here!
*Wait for the pop-up to appear on your screen to cast your vote in the top left corner!

The #MyGivingStory contest, affiliated with Giving Tuesday, is a month long contest during November that offers people a chance to share their stories about why they give, or a meaningful experience they have working with a particular cause or charity.

Juliet’s Story:
Juilet Hungerford’s path to homeownership was note an easy one but she was patient and worked hard to accomplish her dreams. She resolved never to let her sons experience the string of evictions that characterized her own childhood. After receiving an eviction notice where her family was living in 2015, she learned about Interfaith Housing Alliance and would begin her path to homeownership. At first she didn’t qualify for the program, but with the assistance of Carol Riggles, IHA’s Homeownership Program Manager, she would receive guidance and reassurance to continue on her path. Fast forward through three years of hard work to establish financial stability and Juilet was able to trade in her cramped apartment for a rancher to provide a stable living environment for her boys!

Donate to IHA through the Unity Campaign TODAY!

Thu, 14 Sep 2017 16:24:00 GMT

IHA is proud to announce that they are one of the 27 Frederick County nonprofit organizations selected to partner with the United Way of Frederick County, Maryland’s Unity Campaign.

____________________________________________________________________________________

What is the Unity Campaign?

Launched in 2014, the Unity Campaign was built on the success of two previous fundraising efforts – Frederick 48 and Frederick News-Post’s Season of Hope . When County funding for local nonprofits was being elimintated, an effort was begun to “fill the gap” by raising funds from the Frederick Community.

Through a vigorous 12 days of giving in September, the Unity Campaign aims to raise funds to benefit 27 local nonprofits that will address basic human needs and at-risk youth, bettering the Frederick community as a whole.

W hy is the Unity Campaign important?

Our neighbors NEED us! The Frederick Community has a large population of individuals, families and seniors who are in need of food, shelter, clothing, financial sustainability and healthcare.

IHA’s vital mission to develop additional affordable housing units, provide homeownership programs, financial counseling programs and supportive services will assist with the ever-growing need among seniors, working families, and individuals within the Frederick Community.

By DONATING TODAY, you can support IHA through the United Way and join our commitment to address affordable housing in our community!

Visit: IHA’s Unity Campaign partner page

Through the generosity of Incentive Match sponsors , 100% of your contribution goes directly to the designated Nonprofit. In addition, your individual gift is boosted because a portion of your donation is matched by the sponsors.

Amanda Lambert: Another IHA Success Story

Fri, 25 Aug 2017 08:00:00 GMT

IHA’s mission is to strengthen communities and improve the quality of life and economic stability for seniors, working families and individuals through the creation and preservation of affordable housing. For Amanda Lambert, an original tenant at Penn Avenue Townhomes in Cumberland, Maryland, these goals have been achieved through homeownership. This is a FANTASTIC success for Amanda and IHA could not be happier to see her achieve this dream.

Pictured below: Amanda and her fiancé Michael and their new home

Lacy Ames, Special Project Coordinator, had the opportunity to interview Amanda about her experience, her future, and any advice she has for those struggling to obtain affordable housing.

Prior to moving into Penn Avenue Townhomes, Amanda rented a house down the street which was much more expensive and more space than she needed. This left her with virtually no money to cover other routine expenses, let along invest in the future. As a single mother to a little boy named Jameson, Amanda knew she had to find something more affordable. Penn Avenue Townhomes opened in 2012 and Amanda was one of the first tenants in the community.

During her time at Penn Avenue Townhomes, Amanda was able to begin putting money aside for a home of her own. Amanda stated during our interview that she “didn’t look to stay here forever ”. Amanda came in with the mindset that she wanted to prepare for a future home for her family. Working towards this dream, Amanda took advantage of all the resources available. Her son attended community events and various children’s projects. Additionally, Amanda stated she could always rely on the Property Manager and maintenance staff to keep her townhouse well-maintained and running smoothly. She even learned some basic home maintenance along the way. She also utilized resources provided by the Supportive Services Coordinator to learn the specific steps to homeownership.

A piece of advice she has for others who are utilizing affordable housing but would like to own a house of their own in the future, is to be patient. It takes TIME and PERSISTENCE to save enough money. She said she would take notice of the amount of maintenance that would need to be done, even just the need for new lightbulbs, and understand that she would need to save enough money to be ready for all the unexpected, maintenance costs that go along with owning a home. The Cumberland area can be very pricey and owning a home would have been difficult to do years ago as a single mother. However, after 5 years in an affordable townhome, she was able to reach her dreams.

Amanda recently got engaged to her fiancé Michael, who very creatively proposed via live dance video. Her life has recently been very busy with the engagement, recent birth of her daughter Lily, and of course purchasing the home of her dreams. She is READY and EXCITED to move into her new space, into a place she can call her own.

IHA is honored to have been part of Amanda and her family’s journey. We hope this success story provides those in similar situations the motivation and confidence that their dream of homeownership could come true as well!

Ready, Set, Go…HOME

Thu, 03 Aug 2017 13:36:00 GMT

We are offering a series of workshops called Ready, Set, Go…Home and they are being held on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 to 8:00 PM here ... Read more »

IHA Announcement

Fri, 28 Jul 2017 15:18:00 GMT

After nine years of stellar leadership, IHA President/CEO, Patricia Motter has announced that she will be retiring from IHA by the end of the first quarter of 2018. During Tricia’s nine year tenure, IHA saw unprecedented growth with the addition of nine new housing development communities across the region, growth in homeownership programs and expansion of community services. The Board of Directors is in the process of conducting a search to determine Tricia’s ultimate successor and Tricia has graciously offered to assist and consult, following the end of her term, as may be requested by the Board in order to assure an orderly and efficient transition.

Tricia plans to relocate to California in order to spend more time with her family. Everyone at IHA is extremely grateful for her leadership, the quality team that she has built and her friendship. IHA looks forward to successfully continuing our mission to address the shortage of affordable housing needs of individuals, families, and seniors in our regional area of operation.

A new Garden and Bingo event for Weinberg House!

Thu, 27 Jul 2017 14:21:00 GMT

This has been an exciting week at the Weinberg House! The Weinberg House is a property owned by IHA which is located in downtown Frederick off Broadway Street. The property offers 23 one-bedroom apartments serving seniors earning 50% or less of the Area Median Income. This is a wonderful facility that serves an underserved population! This week Legal & General America provided two FANTASTIC events for this community.

Legal & General America contracted with BrightView to create this beautiful garden for our residents at the Weinberg House! A bench is set to be delivered in the next few weeks for the residents too!

Legal and General America also managed a BINGO event for the residents of Weinberg House that same afternoon. During the event, the residents were provided delicious snacks, goody bags, and had the change to win FANTASTIC prizes! The smiles on each participant’s face was very rewarding and IHA is very appreciative of the generous donations and support from this wonderful organization!

IHA is Heavy Metal Playground’s July Non-profit!

Tue, 27 Jun 2017 20:28:00 GMT

Heavy Metal Playground offers a unique bucket list experience to drive and play on big equipment. Dig, push, scoop dirt, stack tires, smash cars and play some of their fun Heavy etal Playground games!

Heavy Metal Playground has selected IHA to be their Non-Profit for the month of July! In July, if you book any of their heavy equipment packages and use the code: (iha), they will donate 10% of the proceeds to IHA. Think of birthday parties, corporate events, corporate team building or any other event and they will donate 10% of those proceeds,too!

Visit their website www.HeavyMetalPlayground.com to start your adventure today!

Yemi and Pillars of Frederick at Frederick County Bank – June 3rd

Tue, 30 May 2017 16:58:00 GMT

Yemi and IHA have partnered to support our mission to provide affordable housing. Proceeds of our Pillars project will help families, seniors and individuals achieve housing stability.

Thanks to Frederick County Bank for hosting this meet and greet. Yemi will be available to meet the public from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Saturday, June 3rd at the Frederick County Bank main office, located at 2 North Market Street.

As you walk the streets of downtown Frederick during First Saturday, please stop by and say hello and see Yemi and the Pillars of Frederick artwork.

Washington Square Townhomes – Application available

Fri, 21 Apr 2017 20:23:00 GMT

Washington Square Townhomes are located in Chambersburg Maryland, next to IHA’s senior apartments also called Washington Square.

There will be 54 units including 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, plus the three bedroom townhomes.

Only the 12 townhomes are in the application process at this time.

The townhomes are 1448 square feet in size with 3 bedrooms and 1 and 1/2 baths. These homes are passive energy efficient. Each town home is comprised of a living room, dining room and separate kitchen. The homes are equipped with a washer/dryer, dishwasher, range, refrigerator, garbage disposal and a microwave. Rent is $852 per month

At this time, the townhomes are nearing being ready for occupancy, but no move-in date has been announced. There is still work to be done on site followed by the permitting process for occupancy.

To obtain a copy of the application click here.

Growing Stronger Together

Wed, 12 Apr 2017 13:48:00 GMT

How are moms and their teenage daughters supposed to spend money, eat well and listen to each other? If you are wondering how to manage all of these complicated issues and stay sane – then we have the class for you!

Moms and teenage daughters will spend two workshops bonding, learning and working together in IHA’s Growing Stronger Together workshop.

It’s hard to stretch a dollar and pay for basics and the splurges – and not argue. Our workshop will go through the basics of budgeting and help moms and daughters learn how to spend and save and find common goals. They will also learn listening and communication skills, plus ways to build healthy relationships.

The two part workshop series is being offered at the C. Burr Artz Library in Frederick on Thursday, May 25th and June 1 from 6:30 to 8pm. For more information and to pre-register, please contact Mary Ellen at memitchell@interfaithousing.org or call 301-662-4225 x1211.

An Evening of Classical Music to Benefit IHA

Tue, 31 Jan 2017 21:12:00 GMT

An evening of classical music is being sponsored in Frederick to benefit IHA.

Renown violinist Natasha Korsakova and Maestro and pianist David Michael Wolff will include Frederick on their USA spring tour. (pictured right)

Ms. Korsakova Is a sought after award winning violinist who has appeared in the world’s most distinguished concert halls. In 1998, she became the “Artist of the Year” in Chile and received the same honor in Italy in 2008. She was born into a musical family in Moscow, and began playing violin at age 5. Her instrument was crafted by Jean Baptiste Vuillaume in Paris in 1851.

Maestro Wolff is the Principal Conductor and Artistic Director of the Carolina Philharmonic. The orchestra is in partnership with Carnegie Hall – where it has performed, and who brings musical education opportunities for children in North Carolina. Wolff debuted as a piano soloist at 12 and since has performed across North America, Europe and Asia. He is in demand to coach opera stars, concert pianists and commissioned to compose works for opera, modern dance – one which led to a collaboration with Mikhail Baryshnikov.

The Repertoire for the evenings performance includes:

Ludwig van Beethoven: Sonata for Violin and Piano in D major, Op. 12, No. 1, 3rd movement: Rondo. Allegro
Pablo de Sarasate: Romance Andalouse
Giuseppe Verdi – Delphin Alard: Fantasy on Themes from “La Traviata“ Op. 38
George Gershwin / Igor Frolov: Fantasy on Themes from “Porgy and Bess”, Op. 19

Tickets for their performance are available at: https://orchestra2100.yapsody.com/

The Concert will be staged at Evangelical Reformed United Church of Christ, 15 W. Church St, Frederick, MD 21701 on Thursday, March 30th from 7 to 8pm. The event is handicap accessible via the elevator on the ground floor entrance.

Concert sponsors are being sought and a private reception will be held prior to the recital as a benefit to donors.

After the concert, attendees are invited to a “Meet the Artist” Reception at 10 W. Church Street in the chapel across the street from the church.

Groundbreaking News!!

Thu, 22 Dec 2016 20:08:00 GMT

IHA, PIRHL, Frederick County Government, Frederick City Government, The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, and Bank of America joined together and celebrated the groundbreaking of 520 North Market Street on December 13, 2016. This group partnered together to make this community of affordable and workforce housing a reality.

Months of careful planning culminated in the exciting kick-off to this marquee effort to provide 59 apartments located conveniently in downtown Frederick. The community will feature 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments, a community room, a computer lab, a rooftop deck, and onsite parking. It is anticipated that construction will be completed and occupancy will occur sometime in early 2018.

To view details about 520 North Market Street please take a moment to watch this video:

IHA Celebrates 25 years!

Thu, 22 Dec 2016 18:35:00 GMT

Community leaders and partners joined IHA on October 27th to help us celebrate 25 years of providing affordable and workforce housing.

The event, held at the historic Ceresville Mansion, recognized partners from the past and the present. Our night of celebration gave us the chance to reminisce about all of people we have assisted through our work over the past 25 years. We also revealed current opportunities that are in progress and future plans for communities and programs that might yet come to fruition.

Dan Ryan, a pillar of support, was honored for his financial and volunteer contributions to IHA. The community room at the 520 North Market Street project, will carry Dan Ryan’s name as soon as it is completed. The community is scheduled for completion in early 2018.

Recognition was bestowed upon the countless number of volunteers, clients, community partners, board members,and development partners that have worked hand in hand, assisting, and in many cases benefiting, from the work that IHA has accomplished over two and one half decades.

We invite you to relive the evening’s fare by watching the evening unfold!

IHA Needs Your Support – The 2016 Holiday Appeal

Thu, 22 Dec 2016 17:06:00 GMT

Your gift matters.

Our ability to deliver our programs and explore new opportunities are very dependent upon the support of our community partners and the people that contribute to IHA. Your donations are the foundation and pillars that allow us to carry on our work.

2016 has been a great year at IHA and 2017 will see us grow unlike any other year in our history. We are building three new rental communities, providing 184 apartments for working families, individuals and seniors. Two of the communities, 520 North Market and Sinclair Way, are located in downtown Frederick City. Washington Square Townhomes is revitalizing an underused section of downtown, Chambersburg, PA.

The demand for supportive services will increase 370% as we serve our newest clients in these three new communities. The number of units that IHA will provide property management services will triple as a result.

Programs and services are an integral part of our work. For the first time IHA will offer financial education to children and their families through a partnership with Frederick County Public Schools. All of our programs continue to expand as we touch a greater number of lives. It is through your support that IHA is able to change the lives of the people that reside in the community where we work and live.

You may mail a year end donation to IHA at 5301 Buckeystown Pike, Suite 320, Frederick,MD 21704. Or visit our website to use a credit card: Click Here!

IHA offices are closed until 1/3/17. Wishing you and yours peace and prosperity in the new year!

Many thanks to Frederick artist Ellen Byrne for the use of her vision of 520 North Market

Meet IHA’s Very Own Superhero!

Wed, 21 Sep 2016 16:46:00 GMT

You know that feeling you get deep down inside your soul when you do something very meaningful for someone else? It’s beautiful, right? It’s something that you just want to keep repeating. Working in a nonprofit, this wonderful feeling occurs often. Carol Riggles, IHA’s Homeownership Coordinator, has more experience in this area than most!

Her job at IHA is both rewarding and challenging. As the gatekeeper for participants in our Purchase Repair Homeownership Program and in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development, Carol has the responsibility of assisting those who have only dreamed of the possibility of homeownership.

Helping people repair credit by teaching them how to pay off debt, Carol literally walks our participants through this process with a series of classes and assignments. All the while, our participants are responsible for the steps necessary to reach the goal of being approved to shop for their dream home. Often times, this journey involves tough love, lots of sweat, and even a few tears.

Carol handles herself with the utmost respect towards our participants. Because of this very close working relationship that is built, lasting bonds of friendship are formed.

IHA, along with Carol and the USDA-RD, has helped to place over 30 families into the home of their dreams. With our participants paying significantly lower mortgage payments than they were paying in rent, tears that were once stress-filled are turned into tears of joy, happiness, pride and relief!

We are so proud of the work we do at IHA and are especially proud to share the work that Carol does each and every day to make the lives of others better.

For more information about our Purchase Repair Homeownership, please contact Carol at criggles@interfaithhousing.org. Carol will be very excited to help someone else achieve their dream of homeownership!

FCPS Partners with IHA!

Wed, 21 Sep 2016 16:31:00 GMT

We are very excited to announce that Frederick County Public Schools recently signed a partnership agreement with Interfaith Housing Alliance.

IHA will sponsor a series of workshops called “Growing Strong Together.” The series is designed to support the unique needs of low-income mothers and their teenage daughters.

In addition, IHA will sponsor “Housing Matters,” a program that focuses on improving financial credit, budgeting and learning about savings to prepare students to be financially stable.

To learn more about Housing Matters and how IHA can partner with your organization, company or non-profit, contact Mary Ellen Mitchell, Director of Community Relations at 301.662.4225 x1211 or memitchell@interfaithhousing.org

From Workshop Particpant to Intern!

Thu, 04 Aug 2016 15:07:00 GMT

Breia Snead and her Mom Carla Lesane participated in a Housing Matters workshop series called Growing Stronger Together in January of 2015. The series worked with mother and daughter pairs to set goals for budgets and savings, taught communication and listening skills and put training into practice with a cooking and healthy lifestyle session. It was the cooking class that featured an interview with both women in the Frederick News Post.

Fast forward 18 months and Breia began working as an intern with Frederick County Workforce Services and was placed at IHA. Her wages are paid through a county grant which also provided training in resume writing and interviewing skills. At age 15, she is learning office basics like scanning, copying, filing and customer service skills including answering the phones. She also made a site visit to Natelli Manor apartments with property manager Vivian Duran to learn about how IHA provides affordable housing.

This is not the first time Breia and her Mom have taken advantages of programs and classes suggested by Ann Ryan, the director of Project Alive at the Housing Authority. They participate in the community garden program at Lucas Village and grow their own vegetables and have taken cooking classes. It was a natural fit they signed up for Growing Stronger Together.

Incoming Board member Tom Ryan was pleasantly caught off guard seeing Breia working at the front desk when he stopped into the IHA office. He hadn’t seen her since she was a student in his social studies class at TJ Middle School.

We are honored to have had Breia as our intern this summer – and hope her connection with IHA continues!

To see the full story in the Frederick News Post: http://www.fredericknewspost.com/news/social_issues/program-in-lucas-village-partners-mothers-and-daughters-to-learn/article_8c414291-4a91-5b2e-928b-47c7027a89f6.html

We’re Having A Party!

Wed, 06 Jul 2016 15:32:00 GMT

We are having a party!

What better way to acknowledge 25 years of helping people find affordable housing than to celebrate and reflect. Save the date of Thursday, October 27, 2016. IHA and our gracious chair, Ms. Karlys Kline, invite you to a fun couple hours of celebrating “Past, Present and Future” while recognizing Dan Ryan of Dan Ryan Builders for his many contributions and great support over the years.

An exciting addition to our celebration is the featured art work by acclaimed artist, Yemi. Recognizing a critical shortage of affordable housing, Yemi approached IHA about a collaborative effort to raise money. He is committed to assisting IHA make a difference by providing a secure, stable living environment for seniors, individuals, and families through rental and homeownership opportunities. Known as “The Pillars of Frederick,” 40 portraits of renowned Fredericktonians have graced McCutcheon’s factory for the past 5 years. For the first time, these portraits will be released for individual purchase and sized for display for home or work. These limited edition framed prints will be signed and numbered by Yemi and “The Pillars of Frederick” will become “The Pillars of Affordable Housing” as Yemi and IHA join forces for a greater good!

A celebration such as this would not be possible if not for the help of our sponsors. Early support has come from our Presenting Sponsor, Dan Ryan Builders; Gold Sponsors, PIRHL, Conifer Realty, and Natelli Communities, LP; Silver Sponsors, Elm Street Development, Frederick County Bank, and Sandy Spring Bank and Bronze Sponsor, Miller & Smith. We are so grateful for their endorsement of the work we do. We look forward to the assistance of others in the community as well.

With groundbreakings and ribbon cuttings in our near future, along with a nationally recognized Purchase Repair Homeownership Program and Housing Matters Program, there is much to celebrate. Affordable housing has been and continues to be a high priority need. IHA prides itself on being a leader in this area and we look forward to celebrating with the community!

For more information about IHA programs, the artwork of Yemi, or sponsorship and ticket opportunities, please contact Hugh Gordon, Vice President of Fund Development or Robin Hayek, Special Projects Coordinator at 301.662.4225.

Our Story!

Wed, 01 Jun 2016 20:24:00 GMT

Many people banter about community issues but few are moved to action. More than twenty-five years ago, a group of concerned people were discussing the severe lack of affordable housing in our area. The need could not be ignored and wouldn’t be resolved by simply talking about it.

In 1989, The Most Rev. P. Francis Murphy, a native of Cumberland, organized a group of religious and lay leaders in Maryland to address the growing need for affordable housing. This group, guided by the expertise of The Enterprise Foundation, established the formation of the Western Maryland Interfaith Housing Development Corporation. Interfaith began staffed operations in 1992 as little more than a vision, operating out of a spare bedroom in the home of James Upchurch, the founding CEO. Committed to providing affordable housing in the Western Maryland Region, Jim was a true advocate for this cause.

Thanks in large part to what was begun by Bishop Murphy, Upchurch, dedicated board members and staff and now carried on under the expert direction of current CEO, Patricia Motter, the Board of Directors, and staff, Interfaith Housing Alliance – IHA as it is called today , has provided 1300 units of affordable housing throughout Maryland and Pennsylvania.

By increasing housing opportunities and strengthening programs to ensure housing stability, IHA is a regional leader. We consistently partner with and support clients to increase their ability to find housing.

In the past two years, the Purchase Repair Homeownership Program which is one of only six pilot programs under USDA Rural Development, has helped 21 families find homes of their own. In addition, there are several communities currently being planned and soon to be unveiled. Stay tuned as IHA helps the ever growing need to find affordable workforce, and senior housing!

From humble beginnings to exciting future endeavors, IHA continues to do the very best for the community we serve. There is a very real need and we are fulfilling that need in extraordinary ways. For more information about our programs and all the good we do here at IHA, visit our website at www.interfaithhousing.org or call us at 301.662.4225.

Spring Into Action!

Wed, 01 Jun 2016 20:11:00 GMT

Over the past 25 years, IHA has opened doors for thousands of young professionals, low-income families, and fixed-income seniors in need of decent affordable housing in safe neighborhoods.

Providing affordable housing requires the attention and efforts of an entire community. IHA is dependent upon gifts and donations from individuals in our community.

We ask you to consider a gift to the annual fund by June 30 – and join us in celebrating a quarter century of caring for others. We ask that you consider whatever level of giving you can provide. Sustained donations allow IHA to maximize the impact we are able to have on this serious community problem.

What kind of effect can you have? Here is an example: Lisa found herself in danger of becoming homeless after her husband died. Without that second income, Lisa, a grocery store clerk, could no longer afford an $1850 rent and was desperate to find an affordable place for herself and her daughters. Luckily, Lisa met a real estate agent who knew about IHA’s Purchase-Repair Homeownership Program. Lisa was able to purchase a townhome with a mortgage payment that was two-thirds less than her rent and provides housing stability for her family.

Unfortunately, the need for affordable housing has increased rapidly over the past few years as the baby boomer generation enters the fixed-income world of retirement and young millennials graduate from college with massive student loans and no opportunities. Seniors are also financially stressed by growing costs of living, inadequate savings, and too little income.
We look to loyal annual fund donors and new contributors to provide financial support so we can continue to improve lives through housing that is affordable.

IHA is financially resourceful and creative; we are able to take every dollar that is donated and produce five dollars-worth of affordable housing. Over the next two years, IHA will develop 182 new units of affordable housing thus creating more doors of opportunity for those in need.

There is no “U” in IHA – but there needs to be one. We cannot meet our goals without you and we are asking for your support.

Your donation will build stronger communities where deserving families and individuals like Lisa and her daughters can afford to live, work and thrive.

Please consider mailing a donation to IHA, 5301 Buckeystown Pike, Suite 320, Frederick, MD, 21704 or online at www.interfaithousing.org. For questions, please call our Vice President of Fund Development, Hugh Gordon at 301-662-4225 x1211.

Homeownership Success!

Wed, 01 Jun 2016 19:49:00 GMT

Melanie was referred to IHA’s Purchase Repair Homeownership program in May 2015 by her real estate agent because her income was so low and had less than $50 in savings to put toward the purchase of a home. Kelly Losquadro with Long & Foster was familiar with the program and had successfully helped two other program participants become homeowners as well. Unlike most of IHA’s homeownership candidates, Melanie’s credit score was just high enough to prequalify immediately for the USDA-RD 502 Direct home loan. She had worked very hard for three years to get that score after an unexpected divorce and subsequent bankruptcy.

Not only was Melanie motivated to own her own home someday, she knew that financially the sooner she could make it happen the better. Because of her low income, she could only afford to pay $600 a month for housing. The apartment she was renting for herself and her 15-year old daughter was $875 a month and would be increasing every year.
Even though the lender did not require a down payment, there are other upfront costs associated with buying a home such as an earnest deposit that is required when making a contract offer and several different types of inspections. Melanie was advised that she would need to save $1,500 to $2,000 in order to become a homeowner. So she scrimped and saved and by August she was ready to begin shopping!

In her price range, there is a lot of competition from investors who like to buy fixer-uppers and flip them after they are renovated. Melanie persevered and finally made a successful contract offer on a home in downtown Woodsboro which was tiny but perfect for her needs.

Everything was going smoothly toward settlement until a week before closing when the appraisal came back much lower than expected. Melanie was faced with having to pay almost $3,000 in closing costs out of pocket – money she did not have and couldn’t borrow. Melanie would have had to walk away from the home of her dreams (and her $1,000 earnest deposit) if it hadn’t been for the PNC Bank Homeownership Assistance Fund managed by the Community Foundation of Frederick County. IHA had been awarded $1,442.55 in October of 2014 and $1,393.13 in November 2015. The entire amount was given directly to Melanie’s settlement company so that she could proceed.

In Decemeber 2015, Melanie and her daughter moved into their new home and began the hard work of repairing the many items on her list that she could learn to do for herself, thus saving money over her entire lifetime of homeownership. She did some siding and gutter repairs, she did interior trim work, removed and fixed window sashes and interior doors, she installed closet shelving and rods, and she caulked throughout the interior and exterior of her home. She even crawled under her home to install the dryer vent properly!

All of Melanie’s hard work and perseverance paid off. She has a mortgage she can afford, a home she loves, and $10,000 in “sweat equity” already!

Credit Repair Improves Lives!

Thu, 28 Apr 2016 18:52:00 GMT

In a year’s time over 600 people participate in financial education through IHA’s Housing Matters Program and over 300 future homebuyers receive one on one housing and credit counseling.

As part of the financial education process, a Credit Café – a collaboration between Interfaith Housing Alliance, United Way, The Housing Authority and the Financial Literacy Coalition is offered four times a year. The next Credit Café is on May 12th from 4 to 7pm.

What is the Credit Café? The Credit Café offers practical skills that can help improve credit scores such as paying bills consistently and on time as well as managing credit cards. It is the goal of the Credit Café to improve credit scores which can improve the opportunity for participants to achieve such things as homeownership and better interest rates on credit cards and car loans. The Credit Cafe’s ultimate goal is to reduce debt and build savings while increasing credit scores.

Attendees simply make an appointment by calling IHA’s office to register. During the Credit Café, IHA will request a soft hit credit report with a score for each client who registers. Participants will then work one-on-one with an advisor who works with credit reports daily. Our volunteer advisors are bankers, mortgage professionals and housing counselors.

For more information on our Credit Café and to register for May 12th, please contact Carol at 301-662-4225 x1209 or Mary Ellen at 301-662-4225 x1211. Please feel free to contact us, as well, if you are interested in volunteering for future Café’s.

Purchase Repair Homeownership Program Receives Special Recognition!

Thu, 28 Apr 2016 18:26:00 GMT

The staff at Interfaith Housing Alliance’s Frederick office had the distinct honor of being visited by the United States Department of Agriculture – Rural Development Administrator for the Rural Housing Service, Tony Hernandez, on the 21st of April. Mr. Hernandez brought with him USDA-RD State Director, Dr. William McGowan and Kathy Beisner, Assistant to the State Director. Brad King, USDA-RD Single Family Housing Program Director; Bonnie Rohrer, USDA-RD Loan Specialist; Vanessa Branch, USDA-RD Area Technician; and Jill Lordan, Self-Help Housing Director for NCALL Research also visited.

IHA is one of only six organizations in the United States offering the Purchase Repair Homeownership Program which was developed as another choice for individuals and families interested in building equity in their homes through their own labor in lieu of a down payment which is known as “Self-Help.”

In partnership with USDA Rural Development as the mortgage lender, the staff at IHA literally walks a potential homeowner through each step. From credit counseling to home repair education and advice, we have successfully helped 21 individuals and families purchase homes of their own and we expect another dozen to purchase in the next 12 months. The desire and need for affordable homeownership opportunities is reflected in the 173 individuals or families we are currently working with to become prequalified for homeownership.

IHA helps our clients attain the classic “American Dream” of homeownership. Our homeowners typically spend less per month for their mortgage, interest, property taxes and insurance (PITI) than they paid for renting an apartment. For example, our most recent homeowner was paying $1025 a month for a two-bedroom apartment and is now paying a total of $619 a month for a 3-bedroom townhome and that covers her mortgage and interest, as well as her property taxes and homeowners insurance!

It is both exciting and rewarding to see this program flourish and gain national recognition, and we very much appreciate the long-term partnership with USDA-RD. Before the Purchase Repair Program began, IHA helped 223 families or individuals build their own homes from the ground up in partnership with the USDA, Self-Help Program. IHA is very proud of the long, successful and over 20-year relationship we have had with the USDA.

Administrator Hernandez shared with IHA staff several great ideas on how to broaden our reach and increase our production, as well as suggesting additional sources of funding. He also requested that our staff help to write an article for national publication to better explain the Purchase Repair Homeownership Program. His visit resulted in a win-win for all parties involved.

For more information about our Purchase Repair Homeownership Program, please contact IHA’s Homeownership Coordinator, Carol Riggles, via email at criggles@interfaithhousing.org. The Purchase Repair Homeownership Program is just one of many ways IHA is working to resolve the lack of affordable housing throughout our region. To learn more about the programs and services IHA provides, please click here .

Weinberg House Community Room Named for Plamondon Hospitality Partners

Thu, 28 Apr 2016 18:08:00 GMT

We recently honored Plamondon Hospitality Partners by naming the community room at Weinberg House after them. The dedication took place on April 15th, and recognized them for so generously extending lodging to our Weinberg House senior residents during a major renovation project. Fifteen residents, many of whom had never before experienced a hotel over-night, stayed for three weeks while the remainder of residents went with family or to other supportive facilities in the area, depending on the level of care needed.

The staff at TownePlace Suites opened their common area numerous times to all of the seniors for buffet breakfast, craft nights, sing-alongs, and a farewell dinner of fried chicken and all the fixings catered by Roy Rogers. The residents had the opportunity to interact with each other and with the staff of the hotel. Everyone’s spirits were lifted and lifelong friends and bonds were created.

Plamondon Hopsitality Partners also donated furniture for the Weinberg House Community Room as part of an ongoing make-over effort.

In honoring Plamondon Hospitality Partners, it was noted that the impact and effects of their generosity and their level of service to the residents were immeasurable. There was a need and when we asked for help Plamondon Hospitality Partners and their employees went far beyond anything anticipated. This organization is a shining example of many of the fine companies in our community that truly care about the people they serve. The lives of our residents have been forever changed for the positive by this relationship and partnership with Plamondon Hopsitality Partners.

Mothers and Daughters – Don’t Miss This Opportunity!

Tue, 29 Mar 2016 20:59:00 GMT

Growing Stronger Together

Moms and teenage daughters will spend a day bonding, learning, eating and working together in IHA’s Growing Stronger Together workshop.

Lunch is included in the program – and as a bonding exercise, our participants will create a meal to take home and learn how to cook together.

The class is being offered at IHA’s Weinberg House Apartments at 222 Broadway Street in Frederick on Saturday, April 23rd from 9:30am to 2:30pm. For more information and to register, please contact Mary Ellen at memitchell@interfaithousing.org or call 301-662-4225×1211.

Special thanks to the Women’s Giving Circle and Carroll Creek Rotary for funding the program and making it no cost to participants.

Another Purchase-Repair Success Story!

Tue, 29 Mar 2016 20:36:00 GMT

Tom Ryan, a Social Studies teacher at TJ Middle in Frederick, is just one of the twenty-one clients who have happily settled in their new homes thanks to IHA’s Purchase-Repair Homeownership Program in partnership with USDA-Rural Development as the mortgage lender.

In lieu of a down payment, each program participant must invest at least 125 hours of “sweat equity” toward the necessary repairs. This investment of their time adds instant equity, on average just over $9,000 per household, as well as a real sense of pride and ownership in their new home.

IHA teaches the new homeowners how to complete the required repairs and how to contract for repairs best left to the professionals such as electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems. Learning how to repair and maintain their own home helps to keep the cost of homeownership down in the future.

IHA plans to provide nineteen more homeownership opportunities to low and very low-income households over the next 12 to 18 months. Did you know that in Frederick County a family of three earning $49,150 or less is considered very low income?

The below market rate loans provided by USDA-RD include the cost of the required repairs and have afforded these new homeowners the opportunity to fulfill the ultimate American Dream of owning their very own home for less than what they were paying for rent.

We are delighted to partner with USDA-RD to offer this self-help homeownership option; the only one of its kind in Maryland.
For more information on this program, please visit: www.interfaithhousing.org or call Carol Riggles, IHA’s Homeownership Coordinator, at 301.662.4225 x1209.

Temporary Relocation Creates Permanent Friendships

Tue, 29 Mar 2016 20:26:00 GMT

What began as the need to modernize a senior apartment building in downtown Frederick quickly turned into an inspiring collaboration that involved Frederick County government, local organizations and businesses.

Weinberg House, IHA’s senior facility in Frederick, required an elevator upgrade and the addition of several safety features to bathrooms in each of the 23 apartments. These safety additions included tub conversions, the installation of grab bars and removable showerheads.

To complete the work in the fastest, safest way possible, the senior residents were relocated for three weeks thanks to the generosity of Plamondon Hospitality Partners, Tranquillity of Fredericktowne, Community Living, and family members. The relocation was a significant endeavor coordinated by Interfaith Housing Alliance staff with tremendous support from the community.

The YMCA of Frederick County utilized their Head Start vans for transportation. Volunteers from On Our Own, Frederick Random Acts of Kindness, Potomac Case Management, Frederick Rescue Mission and Beacon House residents, IHA staff, family and friends all helped residents move out and then move back into the building three weeks later. Each resident also had a dedicated volunteer to assist in packing and unpacking.

“Without a doubt, the entire process would not have unfolded so smoothly without the generosity and assistance from many in our community,” said Patricia Motter, President and CEO of IHA. “So many gave so selflessly to make the transition successful.”

The residents appreciated it, too. Weinberg resident Donald Lyles said, “One word sums it up, excellent! The volunteers were courteous and had a positive outlook.”

The bonds that were formed over these few weeks will no doubt carry forward as the residents settle in back home. “The outpouring of support for our seniors was heart-warming,” said Mary Ellen Mitchell, Director of Community Relations for IHA. “These volunteers exemplify the spirit of community in Frederick, as our clients bonded with them.”

Both Motter and Mitchell expressed a desire to foster further connections between their seniors and the community.

For more information on how you can volunteer for a variety of IHA initiatives, please visit our Facebook page at Interfaith Housing Alliance or call our office at 301.662.4225.

Congratulations 3 Roads Communications!

Mon, 14 Mar 2016 15:54:00 GMT

3 Roads Communications received a Telly Award for a video they produced for the Interfaith Housing Alliance.

Thank you to 3 Roads Communications for helping us share our story!

Visit IHA at the FCBIA 2016 Home Show!

Mon, 14 Mar 2016 02:56:00 GMT

IHA will be on site to discuss affordable housing this weekend, March 19th and 20th, at the Frederick County Eventplex. Our booth is number 905 ... Read more »

IHA’s Main Office will close on 12/24/15 and reopen on 1/4/16

Tue, 22 Dec 2015 19:48:00 GMT

Although our main office will be closed, we will still have our property managers and maintenance personnel on standby for any emergencies.

Happy New Year!

Welcome IHA’s newest employees!

Tue, 22 Dec 2015 19:44:00 GMT

Valerie Waddle is IHA’s new VP. of Operations/Finance and Hugh Gordon is IHA’s new V.P. of Development. Both bring years of multi-talented experience to the ... Read more »

IHA New Office Space Ribbon Cutting

Tue, 22 Dec 2015 19:25:00 GMT

Pictured from left to right (front row):

Justin Saltzman, Kathryn Clay (PNC Bank), Bruce Zavos (IHA’s BOD Treasurer), Josh Pedersen (CEO of the United Way of Frederick County), Keena Jackson (IHA Purchase Repair Homeownership Program Participant), Sarah Thompson (IHA BOD Chair), Patricia Motter (President/CEO IHA), Elizabeth Day (CEO of the Community Foundation of Frederick County).

IHA Offices are Moving

Tue, 30 Jun 2015 13:48:00 GMT

IHA IS MOVING!! Please note our new address as of July 6 : 5301 Buckeystown Pike, Suite 320, Frederick MD 21704 The phone number will still be 301-662-4225.

Our offices will be closed July 1 to July 3 for the move – and we expect an interruption in phone and email as we move the server, computers and phones to our new location.

We have cherished our time at the North Market Street location and look forward to celebrating our 25th anniversary year in new offices.

Ausherman Challenge Grant

Mon, 08 Jun 2015 15:19:00 GMT

Up to the Challenge?

The Ausherman Family Foundation recently awarded IHA a Challenge Grant. The grant matches funds raised dollar for dollar – which will create opportunities for greater permanent stability for families, individuals and seniors. Our goal is to meet this challenge by the end of our fiscal year, June 30th.

Recent donor support has assisted 18 families in becoming homeowners. 579 individuals were provided with financial education and housing counseling benefiting more than 1,600 of their family members. Contributions help to keep over 700 clients in rental housing through our apartment communities. The time has never been better to donate.

IHA with our partner, Conifer Realty, anticipate a 2015 ground breaking for the construction of a 71 unit apartment complex in Frederick. Additionally, IHA has been awarded competitive funding to construct 50 new family apartments in Chambersburg with partner PIRHL. Come grow with us!

In honor of IHA’s 25th anniversary year, which begins on July 11th, would you please consider supporting us with a gift in a denomination that includes a 25? You might choose $25, $250, $2500 or even $25 a month for the next 25 months. Your generosity makes a significant difference!

For more information about how to make a recurring donation, please contact our Director of Community Relations, Mary Ellen Mitchell at 301-662-4225 x1211 or memitchell@interfaithhousing.org.
Donations can be mailed to 731 North Market St., Frederick, MD 21701 or online at www.interfaithhousing.org. Thank you!

25th Anniversary Celebration Announcement – June, 2015

Mon, 08 Jun 2015 15:15:00 GMT

IHA celebrates its 25th Anniversary year beginning in July 2015 and will host an anniversary party on May 25th, 2016 in Frederick – with other events scheduled throughout the course of the year. Please stay tuned for details about locations and sponsorships for the events hosted across the communities in which we serve.

Since 1990, IHA has provided 1235 units of housing via shelters, apartment communities, town homes, lease-to-own homes and single family home neighborhoods. In partnership with Conifer Realty, their newest effort is a 71 unit apartment complex in downtown Frederick with a ground breaking planned for their anniversary year. Additionally, IHA has been awarded competitive funding to construct 50 new family apartments in Chambersburg with partner PIRHL. Come grow with us!

More than just housing, IHA offers financial education programming with the goal of assisting participants to develop budgets, good credit and permanent stability.

IHA plans to highlight twenty five individuals or families whose lives have been positively impacted by their association with IHA. If you know such a story, please be in touch. Contact Mary Ellen Mitchell at memitchell@interfaithhousing.org or 301-662-4225 x1211.

Holiday Closing and IHA Internet

Tue, 30 Dec 2014 13:47:00 GMT

IHA will be closed from December 30th at 4:30pm and re-open Monday January 5th at 8:30am. During this break we are migrating our internet to ... Read more »

Dan Ryan Builders supports IHA Annual Fund Campaign

Mon, 01 Dec 2014 14:52:00 GMT

IHA’s Annual Fund Campaign is in the mail!

We are delighted to share that for the 3rd year in a row Dan Ryan Builders has offered a $25,000 gift to sustain programs and mission. Dan Ryan and his company have been long time supporters of our mission to provide affordable housing opportunities – and has also been a business partner in building some of those homes.

If you would like to help meet Dan’s challenge, you make a donation by mailing a check to IHA at 731 North Market Street, Frederick, MD 21701 or online via our website at www.interfaithhousing.org. If you would like to receive the annual fund mailing please contact Mary Ellen at 301-662-4225 x1211 or email her at memitchell@interfaithhousing.org

IHA participates in the Unity Campaign for Frederick County

Mon, 01 Dec 2014 14:39:00 GMT

IHA is honored to have been selected to join 16 local non-profits and participate in the Unity Campaign for Frederick County.

The Unity Campaign combines the efforts of 2 previous community fundraisers: The Season of Hope and Frederick 48.

Throughout the campaign which runs from November 18th to November 30th, there will be multiple opportunities for the community to show their support by joining mini-fundraisers offered by Frederick County businesses and by making donations directly online.

We thank the Community Foundation of Frederick County for hosting the campaign as its fiscal agent, the Frederick News Post for their involvement as a host and for its promotion in the paper and online, and Funds For Causes CEO Joe Gatewood for chairing the event.

USDA Approves Funding of 2 Year Self-Help Purchase Repair Grant

Mon, 01 Dec 2014 14:21:00 GMT

IHA has been awarded a second grant to continue the Self Help Purchase Repair program and to be able to offer low and very low income buyers the opportunity to purchase homes.

IHA pairs buyers with existing homes on the market that need repair and attention. We help the participant prequalify for a USDA Rural Development Loan with requires no down payment and offers below market interest rates for a 33 to 38 year mortgage. The participant also develops a repair budget and with technical support from staff completes at least 125 hours of sweat equity in repair work on the home. Homes are available in Carroll, Frederick, Washington and Allegany Counties in Maryland.

2 and 3 Bedroom Apartments in Frederick

Fri, 26 Sep 2014 16:34:00 GMT

Natelli Manor has one 2 bedroom apartment and two 3 bedroom apartments available for rent in Frederick at 731 N. Market St. Please contact Property ... Read more »

Senator Ben Cardin visits Frederick

Mon, 21 Jul 2014 13:51:00 GMT

Senator Ben Cardin spent part of Friday morning visiting with members of the Frederick County Financial Literacy Coalition, the United Way and the Housing Authority of Frederick to discuss the work of the Prosperity Center and the ” Fair Shot” legislation in Washington,DC. Both the work of the Prosperity Center and the long term goal of Cardin’s federal legislative agenda are to improve the lives of those struggling to make ends meet. IHA is a member of the Financial Literacy Coalition and got to present a partnership program the ” Credit Cafe” as an example of the impact of the Prosperity Center.

http://www.fredericknewspost.com/news/politics_and_government/cardin-promotes-fair-shot-agenda-in-round-table-discussion/article_173a1058-88cd-52cf-9fc8-58864c76b511.html

My Budget Coach – One on One Coaching

Thu, 03 Apr 2014 20:20:00 GMT

12 Participants and Coaches Needed for May, 2014 Launch

Participants:
Would you like help to create and maintain a budget? The MyBudgetCoach™ program matches a trained volunteer budget coach with a member. They meet once a month for 12 monthly sessions, with each session covering budgeting techniques, financial management and goal attainment strategies. The program’s online tools allow the member to track expenses in real-time, keep track of their budget, track progress towards achieving important financial goals and communicate with their coach and program staff members. All the while, the coach is able to track the member’s progress in real-time and encourage members to stay on task and on track in between sessions.
If you have 2 hours a month and want help to reach your financial goals, sign up today!

Coaches:
If you have 2 hours a month to offer to help others reach their financial goals, please consider signing up to be a budget coach. Training will be provided – no experience needed.

Frederick County Credit Summit

Thu, 03 Apr 2014 19:49:00 GMT

Credit Summit

The community is invited to join us on April 17th at Bernard Brown Community Center, 629 N. Market St., Frederick for the Frederick County Credit Cafe co-sponsored by The Frederick County Financial Literacy Coalition, The Prosperity Center at Bernard Brown Community Center, Interfaith Housing Alliance, United Way of Frederick County and Maryland CASH Campaign

4:00 to 7:30pm
Credit counselors will be available for free 30 minute appointments to review your credit history. Free credit scores and reports provided by IHA. Registration for one on one appointments can be made at: 301-663-4231

Master Your Credit April 17th 6:30 -7:30pm
Find out what makes up your credit score and ways to build or rebuild your credit. Presented by Sue Rogan, MD CASH Campaign. Held at Bernard Brown Center 629 Market St., in conjunction with the Credit Summit. To register for this class call 301-662-4225 x1211 or email memitchell@interfaithhousing.org

Your Financial Check-up

Thu, 03 Apr 2014 19:30:00 GMT

Our next IHA class is “Your Financial Check-Up” on Tuesday, April 8th from 6:30 to 7:30pm at the IHA Office, 731 N. Market St. in Frederick.

The workshop offers an overview of spending plans, credit, insurance and retirement funds – and how they can help your family today and years from now. Presented by Nancy Lewis, Maryland Extension Service.

Registration required – call the office at 301-662-4225 x1211 or email me at memitchell@interfaithhousing.org

Homeownership 101 in patnership with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority

Tue, 25 Mar 2014 20:55:00 GMT

IHA is pleased to announce the partnership between IHA and the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority in hosting “ Homeownership 101” on Sunday, March 30th at the C. Burr Artz Library community room on Patrick St. in downtown Frederick. The Deltas are providing lunch too!

See flyer for registration information. Attendees must register to attend.

Please consider sharing this with those in your circle who might benefit: employees, co-workers, clients, etc. We are hoping that working families and individuals can attend, given that the event is on a weekend. We can host up to 100 attendees.

Buying a home can be so confusing and IHA hopes to demystify the process in this workshop.

In Homeownership 101, potential homebuyers will learn the roles and responsibilities for themselves and the professionals they will encounter along the way. A real estate agent will walk through the process and help explain how an agent and a buyer work together to search for a home and make an offer. A mortgage broker will explain the loan application process and different programs available to the first time buyer. Finally a title insurance agent will introduce the vocabulary used in the closing process and the documents necessary for purchasing a home.

In addition IHA staff will introduce the Purchase-Repair Homeownership Program which is available in conjunction with a grant awarded by the USDA. This gives us the opportunity to pre-qualify low income buyers and help them through the purchase process of an already existing home. The low interest USDA loan includes a budget for repairs and has no down payment. Homes are available for purchase in Frederick, Carroll and Washington Counties.

Speakers for this series include Mary Ford Nail from Real Estate Teams LLC, Vicky Weldon with Wells Fargo Home Mortgage and Dan Martz of United Title Service LLC. The workshop is offered free of charge.

Homeownership 101 Class in Emmitsburg

Tue, 14 Jan 2014 21:15:00 GMT

Would you like to learn the ins and outs of buying a home? How to apply for a mortgage? What to expect at settlement?

Learn the roles and responsibilities of being a homebuyer and how to work with your
real estate agent, mortgage broker and settlement team.

Interfaith Housing Alliance invites you to join us for this workshop on January 21st, 6 to 7pm, 300-A South Seton Ave., Emmitsburg (Back entrance of Library) Our presenter is
Michelle Hodos of Long and Foster Real Estate.

“Charity of the Month” at Brewer’s Alley on Feb. 4th

Tue, 14 Jan 2014 21:04:00 GMT

On Tuesday February 4th, Interfaith Housing Alliance will be the “Charity of the Month” .

IHA will receive 20% of the take for the day. ( No special coupons or mentioning IHA needed) The take doesn’t include special events upstairs. IHA will have materials on every table and a display near the front door, too.

The IHA Charity Day starts at 11:30am to closing – and it would be wonderful if you would make plans to meet a colleague or friend at Brewer’s Alley for lunch – or meet up with others for dinner. It would be very helpful if you were to alert your connections to this fundraising day – please share this news via Facebook, Twitter, blog posts to expand IHA PR efforts.

Irish Whiskey Tasting to benefit IHA

Tue, 14 Jan 2014 20:51:00 GMT

Save the date for the First Friday in March! This event will feature multiple tastings of Irish Whiskey, food samplings from Bushwallers and live acoustic ... Read more »

Holiday Appeal Time

Wed, 11 Dec 2013 20:13:00 GMT

This holiday season IHA gives thanks to all of you for your faith, support and commitment to our shared mission to help those in need to find safe, decent and affordable housing.

In 23 years, IHA has completed over 1,150 units of housing. What does that mean? Each night this winter over 2,000 people will sleep securely under a roof THEY CAN AFFORD.

Another 1,000 individuals are impacted through IHA’s Purchase Repair and Housing Matters Program which light the path to finding stable housing.

IHA stewards your donations and delivers RESULTS.

Rent alone doesn’t cover the cost of housing and supportive services to those in our apartment communities. IHA needs $1600 a year to house a senior and $2400 a year to house a family. Your support will be matched by other dollars. This year donations made to the annual fund will leverage two challenge grants provided by Ausherman Family Foundation and Dan Ryan Builders Charitable Foundation.

Please join our Staff, Board and Business Council in making a financial gift today. We need you. Our collective gifts ensure our seniors and families have a place to call home.

If you would like to make a gift, you may do so by mail to IHA, 731 North Market St., Frederick, MD 21701 or online at: http://www.interfaithhousing.org/get-involved/
If you would like to be included in future mailings or receive our e-newsletter, please let us know.

Thank you and Happy Holidays!

Dan Ryan Builders offers Holiday Challenge Grant

Wed, 11 Dec 2013 16:59:00 GMT

For the second year in a row Dan Ryan Builders has issued a $25,000 challenge grant to IHA donors. They will match gifts dollar for dollar up to $25,000 that are made through February, 2014 as part of the annual giving campaign.

To make a gift in response to the challenge, please send a contribution to IHA, 731 North Market St., Frederick, MD 21701. Or visit us online to make a gift by credit card at

http://www.interfaithhousing.org/get-involved/

For questions, contact Mary Ellen Mitchell, Director of Community Relations at 301-662-4225 x1211 or at memitchell@interfaithhousing.org

Homeownership 101 Workshop

Tue, 26 Nov 2013 17:42:00 GMT

RSVP for this great workshop to learn about the process of becoming a homeowner

Housing Matters Workshop for Boy Scouts

Wed, 06 Nov 2013 16:18:00 GMT

IHA is partnering with the Appalachian Trail and Catoctin Mountain Districts to offer Scouts an opportunity to explore money, debt, and spending. Personal Management is an EAGLE Merit Badge requirement.

Steve Fennington, VP at Frederick County Bank will lead this session. IHA is honored to have Frederick County Bank as a sponsor of the Housing Matters program which offers financial literacy education workshops.

Halloween Theme dance to benefit IHA

Tue, 22 Oct 2013 18:04:00 GMT

” Nightmare on Carroll Creek” is a Halloween themed dance on November 2 to benefit IHA and United Way. It will be held from 7pm ... Read more »

Partnership with Maryland Women’s Conference

Tue, 22 Oct 2013 17:29:00 GMT

Interfaith Housing Alliance is part of a new nonprofit partnership with Maryland Women’s Conference. ” Jobs, Health and Money ” is the theme of this ... Read more »

“Reverse Mortgages Explained” Workshop

Tue, 15 Oct 2013 19:40:00 GMT

Wednesday, October 23 from 2 to 3pm
(Doors open at 1:45pm)
Interfaith Housing Alliance
731 North Market Street
Frederick, MD 21701
Registration required to attend this no cost event

Have you wondered if a reverse mortgage is right for you or a family member? This workshop will discuss the basics of reverse mortgages and provide you with a better of understanding of how they work.
Participants can expect to learn the following:
1. What is a reverse mortgage?
2. How a reverse mortgage can be used as part of a retirement plan.
3. How a reverse mortgage can be used to purchase a home for downsizing or upsizing living arrangements.

Instructor Biography:
Angela Dredden is a life-long resident of Frederick County. She has been involved in financial services for 30 years with a specialization in reverse mortgages for the last 8 years. Active in the community, Ms. Dredden serves on the Annual Support Committee for Frederick Memorial Hospital and volunteers for Heartly House.

To Register: Please call or email Mary Ellen Mitchell at IHA at 301-662-4225 x1211 or memitchell@interfaithhousing.org. You may leave a voicemail or send an email message including the names of attendees and your phone number. This event is limited to 15 attendees, so register today! Free onsite parking available.

Tickets Selling Quickly for the Scotch Tasting Event on September 6th

Tue, 13 Aug 2013 15:03:00 GMT

Please consider gathering your friends and colleagues and participating in First Friday Frederick’s Single Malt Scotch tasting event on September 6th. A portion of the evening’s proceeds will benefit IHA.

This 3rd party fundraiser is a great way to support IHA, taste some fine whisky and enjoy a night in Downtown Frederick. Bagpipers from Frederick Scottish Pipes & Drums will greet you at the door.

By special request …there will be an outdoor cigars ‘n’ scotch area for those who wish to sip and puff. Local tobacconist Davidus Cigars will provide a variety of quality cigars for separate purchase. The evening’s food accompaniment is chocolate.

IHA will provide the evening’s beverage pourers or Spirit Guides to help you enjoy a wee dram of the seven available scotches. Tickets are selling quickly online for $30 at www.firstfridayfrederick.com and some may be available at the door for $35.

Standard Charitable Foundation Awards $2,500 to IHA

Tue, 13 Aug 2013 14:49:00 GMT

Cumberland, Maryland – Standard Charitable Foundation has awarded a $2,500 grant to Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) to help provide training for Cumberland residents through IHA’s Housing Matters Program, which provides affordable housing opportunities, financial education, and housing counseling services for the working poor, seniors on fixed incomes, and individuals or families with disadvantages and/or disabilities. IHA helps provide these individuals and families with the knowledge and resources needed to achieve economic stability and a higher quality of life.

Currently, IHA provides these affordable housing opportunities throughout Maryland and south-central Pennsylvania, and has created more than 1,100 affordable housing units, invested over $150 million in Maryland and Pennsylvania, and has received more than 30 awards of excellence for their accomplishments. ¬

“We greatly appreciate Standard Charitable Foundation’s recent contribution as we initiate the Housing Matters program in Cumberland,” said Patricia Motter, President of IHA. “IHA has been involved in the county since the 1996 opening of Washington Ridge Apartments. We are thrilled to build 25 new, beautiful lease-to-own townhomes at our Penn Avenue location that set a new standard of living for affordable housing. We look forward to offering the Housing Matters Program to the new Penn Avenue townhomes as well as to the community at large.”

Rachel Ritchey, assistant manager of Standard Bank’s Cumberland office, adds “IHA has become the one of the region’s leading non-profit in affordable housing development. They’ve reached this status because of their excellence in rental home management, ensuring responsiveness to residents needs, and through their long-term investment in the neighborhoods they serve. IHA has really done a fantastic job keeping these structures and their landscaping in immaculate condition. Having spoken with a few of the residents, you can tell they also take great pride in their homes.”

Standard Charitable Foundation’s mission is to provide financial support to not for profit organizations in the communities in which Standard Bank operates. The Standard Charitable Foundation was established in conjunction with the 2010 conversion of Standard Bank’s parent company from mutual to stock form.

Photo Caption: From left to right: Patricia Motter, President of IHA; Rebecca Broussard, asset manager of IHA; and Rachel Ritchey of Standard Bank’s Cumberland Office.

Repairs are underway at Judith’s new home

Thu, 11 Jul 2013 17:31:00 GMT

You can watch the progress being made on Judith’s new home on IHA’s blog at:
http://buildingstrongcommunitiesblog.wordpress.com/

The old wood siding has been removed so that the new maintenance-free vinyl siding can be installed. In addition, the old tile in the upstairs bathroom has been removed, most of the electrical work has been completed, the drywall has been repaired, and the walls have been spackled, sanded and taped in preparation for the painting party Judith is having this weekend!

Ron Morris, IHA’s V.P. of Construction/Development, is teaching Judith how to do all kinds of repairs and maintenance, and all of this knowledge will help to keep Judith’s home affordable for many years to come!

At first glance, it may not look like the ceramic tile in Judith’s upstairs bath needs to be replaced, but in fact, many of them were loose. Upon closer inspection, Ron discovered that the water barrier behind the exterior walls was on the wrong side. So, Judith happily said goodbye to the 70′s olive green tiles!

PNC Bank Continues its Generous Support

Thu, 27 Jun 2013 14:06:00 GMT

IHA recently received $15,000 from PNC Bank in support of the Housing First program in Frederick County.

The grant represents the 8th year of major grant funding, and the 15th year in a row of support from PNC Bank for IHA’s programs and services.

PNC Bank’s Chairman states, “A business cannot succeed if its communities are not well positioned for future growth and success. That is why at PNC we devote resources and human capital to seed ideas, foster development initiatives and support nonprofit organizations. We are proud of the work we do in our communities and will continue to play our part to ensure the long term vitality of each of the communities in which we operate.”

IHA truly appreciates PNC’s long-term devotion to improving low-to-moderate income neighborhoods and the quality of life for Frederick County residents!

Grants from foundations and corporations have contributed greatly to IHA’s continued progress in addressing shelter-poverty issues by developing safe and affordable communities. At the present time IHA is building three new communities and is getting ready to start a fourth. In addition, IHA owns and manages 140 family and senior apartments in six communities, and provides property management services to a nonprofit organization that serves victims of domestic violence. Throughout our history of just over twenty years, thousands of low to moderate income families, individuals and senior citizens throughout Maryland and Pennsylvania have benefited.

Judith Found the Home She’s Been Dreaming About!

Fri, 21 Jun 2013 13:17:00 GMT

Through IHA’s Purchase-Repair Homeownership Program, Judith was able to find the home of her dreams with a monthly mortgage payment that is lower than what she was paying in rent!

Judith’s new cottage-style home has four bedrooms, one of which will become her painting studio. The home, located just north of Thurmont in Frederick County, has a large yard filled with mature fruit-bearing, flower-bearing, and evergreen trees, as well as lovely foundation plants that are well established. Despite its rural location (a requirement to obtain the USDA Rural Development low interest, no down payment mortgage) the home is just a mile or two from Route 15, providing an easy commute to her job as a bus driver for Fort Detrick in Frederick.

Judith is ecstatic to finally be able to find the home of her dreams! She knew exactly what she wanted to buy, but it wasn’t as easy as she had hoped. It seemed every time she found a home that qualified under the program and fit her wants and needs, the home was soon under contract to another buyer. However, Judith would not give up, and with the help of her real estate agents, Peggy Magnanelli and Debbi Lewis, with RE/MAX Results, her perseverance paid off.

IHA’s Vice President of Construction and Development, Ron Morris, will be supervising the repair process. The home needs new siding, the hardwood floors need to be refinished, some bathroom tile work, and a complete interior paint job. Judith has already planned a painting party for July! The cost of the repairs, about $10,000, was included in the mortgage loan from USDA, and Judith doesn’t have to wait until everything is completed before she moves in. In the photo, Judith is showing where her dishwasher will be installed.

In Maryland, this is a brand new type of Self-Help program. IHA is the only nonprofit that has received a technical assistance grant from USDA Rural Development to provide this program in Frederick County, as well as Carroll and Washington counties.

IHA works with program participants to obtain a certificate of eligibility from USDA for a no down payment, 3.125% fixed rate 33-year mortgage. We also provide credit repair and budgeting workshops and one-on-one sessions for those that need help in this area, bundle together all of the documents and verifications required to go out with the application, inspect potential homes for realtors to determine whether a home qualifies for the program, work up a list of required repairs along with a cost estimate, set up and manage supervised bank accounts for the portion of the loan designated to cover the repairs after closing, manage the repair process after closing, and teach new homeowners how to repair and maintain their new home. There is no fee for our services.

Carol Riggles, IHA’s Homeownership Coordinator, will be photographing and following the transformation of Judith’s home from start to finish. Carol is just as excited as Judith! She said, “It’s easy to see that this home is a diamond in the rough, and once the walls get painted, the floors get refinished, and the exterior siding is replaced, it will be a home that Judith, or anyone for that matter, will cherish for years to come.”

Oakwood Family Homes Currently Under Construction

Thu, 20 Jun 2013 16:39:00 GMT

Currently under construction in Glen Burnie, Maryland, applications are now being accepted!

Please click here to download an application , or contact Becky Broussard at 301-662-4225 x1303 or rbroussard@interfaithhousing.org to request an application by regular mail.

Oakwood Family Homes is a single family lease-to-own community and the 22 homes will be ready to move in by November 2013. All of the homes have three bedrooms and two and a half baths. Three of the homes will be single-story and modified for those with mobility impairments.

Home amenities include:

1,350 – 1,450 sq. ft. of living space, a single car garage, laminate flooring, and a full array of appliances including a microwave oven, smooth cooktop range, dishwasher, garbage disposal, and clothes washer and dryer.

Community ammenities include:

Separate community building with business center, playground area, water and sewer, trash removal, wireless internet access, and close proximity to shopping, day care, and medical facilities.

Oakwood Family Homes is being constructed in partnership with PIRHL Developers, and will be owned and managed by Interfaith Housing Alliance, Inc. This community is financed in part by the Arundel Community Development Services, Bank of America, and the Maryland Department of Housing & Community Development.

Homeownership 101 Workshop

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 17:42:00 GMT

In Homeownership 101, potential homebuyers will learn the roles and responsibilities for themselves and the professionals they will encounter along the way. A real estate ... Read more »

2013 Kitty Reed Leadership Award presented to IHA’s Director of Programs and Community Relations

Thu, 30 May 2013 19:34:00 GMT

Mary Ellen Mitchell was selected as the recipient of the 2013 Kitty Reed Outstanding Leadership Award!

Here is the article published in the Frederick News-Post on May 30, 2013:

Mary Ellen Mitchell’s service to the community through nonprofit and educational organizations was highlighted Wednesday when she received the third annual Kitty Reed Outstanding Leadership Award at the Leadership Frederick County Graduation & Alumni Celebration.

Kathryn “Kitty” Mercer Reed was the first female chairwoman of the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce’s board of directors and served as the chamber’s executive director from 1980 to 1993. Reed also initiated the Leadership Frederick County program and was known for her enthusiastic and passionate dedication to the chamber, the community and its members.

Many nominees for the award have impressive records of volunteering and public service, said Diane DeMarco, who nominated Mitchell for the award.

“What makes Mary Ellen stand out is that she has founded or co-founded a number of successful fundraising events and these events continue to this day,” DeMarco said.

Through her career, Mitchell has raised more than $4 million for Frederick County nonprofit organizations and has recruited and trained thousands of volunteers in her 20-plus years in Frederick County for nonprofit employers and for causes near and dear to her heart to expand awareness, educate and improve the lives of the less fortunate in the county, DeMarco said.

Mitchell, who is director of programs and community relations at Interfaith Housing Alliance, is a 2008 Leadership Frederick County alumna and member of the LFC Council. She is the first woman to win the Kitty Reed Leadership Award. The previous winners were Fred Genau and Michael Boyd.

“Leadership Frederick County is probably one of the most significant impacts on my life, both personally and professionally, and I am very honored to receive this award,” Mitchell said. “I can hardly walk downtown without running into someone affiliated with Leadership Frederick County.

“Fredericktonians are so interested in making our community better. We take so much pride in our community and I’m happy that each graduate has committed to making a difference.”

Keynote graduation ceremony speaker Bill Graham encouraged the 43 new Leadership Frederick County graduates to lead with passion and emotion.

Leadership is not a promotion and being in charge does not make you a leader; it’s a responsibility, said Graham, a corporate and organizational trainer.

“As leaders, you have to find a way to get into people’s heads,” Graham said. “Be in a constant state of being better. There’s no reason to accept the status quo in what we do. Change is the only way we get better.”
Leadership is not just about taking in information, said Graham, who is on the faculty of Seton Hall’s communications department, George Mason’s sports management department, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Institute for Organizational Management.

“You take the information so you can lead passionately,” Graham said. “As leaders, you get to say, ‘Now, I get the chance to set a course, to row faster and better.’

“You’ve been given the opportunity to imagine a better Frederick, and I challenge you to do so.”
The new LFC class has given more than 1,200 hours of volunteer service to six local nonprofits, which amounts to about $80,000.

Credits: Ike Wilson, Staff Reporter, and Graham Cullen, Staff Photographer

IHA’s Director of Programs and Community Relations Wins Prestigious Leadership Award

Thu, 30 May 2013 19:26:00 GMT