FHDC attended this year’s Housing Oregon’s annual Industry Support Conference. The event provided valuable insights into affordable housing in Oregon from industry professionals. It included specialty sessions spanning two days, which also featured Executive Director Maria Elena Guerra (MEG) and Senior Asset Manager Christian Meneses-Zurita, who spoke on “Equity & Racial Justice, Property & Asset Management, and Rural Communities.” Additionally, Housing Development Manager Carmen Fernandez addressed the topic of “Affordable Housing Development and Design.”
The first day concluded with a wonderful opportunity to connect, reconnect, and celebrate well-deserved recognitions of affordable housing professionals from across the state at the evening Gala. During this event, FHDC, along with our partners at Bienestar, received the “Asset Champion Award.” This award recognizes organizations or partnerships whose asset and portfolio management programs exemplify long-term planning, improved asset performance, maximized asset value, cost savings at both project and portfolio levels, and proactive problem-solving. MEG and Bienestar’s Executive Director, Nathan Teske, are committed to collaborating together when opportunities emerge for the betterment of the missions of both organizations.
Margaret Mahoney, a great friend and ally, received the Lifetime Achievement Award. She has dedicated her career to championing affordable housing, equitable development, and public service in Oregon. As a member of FHDC’s Finance Advisory Committee, along with her leadership at REACH Community Development and her contributions to the City of Portland’s Bureau of Development Services, Margaret has transformed the region’s housing landscape with her innovative spirit, unwavering integrity, and deep commitment to the community. We want to extend our congratulations on your dedication and immense contributions, which have been crucial in bringing our work to its current success. Pictured with Margaret is Ivy Kahawai, FHDC’s Housing Development Associate and nominator for the award.
This multi-day conference continues to grow and become more dynamic each year, and we are glad to have been a part of it. We will surely keep next year’s edition on our radar.
