Together, we are making our neighborhoods stronger, our families safer and our future brighter
Amy Klaben, President/CEO,
Columbus Housing Partnership
As Columbus Housing Partnership looks ahead to another exciting year, we would like to take a moment to look back at 2003- to celebrate our accomplishments, to share our successes and to thank each of you, our friends and partners, for helping make it all happen!
The year began with a renewed focus on CHP’s Homeownership Program. This CHP program had many accomplishments in 2003 including the acquisition of nearly 18 lots for new construction and four homes for renovation. CHP has also started construction in the city’s south and near east communities on two model houses and a spec home. In addition to constructing and selling two homes, CHP has one rehabbed home for sale, two homes out for bid and another in contract.
Construction of 31 single-family homes at Joyce Avenue in the Linden area was completed and all homes were leased this past summer. We also completed construction and leased 32 new lease-option homes in the Mariemont community and broke ground for another 64 new homes, now under construction, in Columbus’ Southside and Greater Linden/Milo Grogan neighborhoods. We had over 500 applicants for the 63 homes we finished this year and we have already received over 300 calls for our two new recently started communities. CHP is also planning new projects for 2004 and has acquired lots and houses for 56 more single-family lease-option homes for development. We now have 26 rental home communities in Central Ohio. Throughout 2003, we had an average occupancy rate of 95 percent and implemented programs at all of our communities to improve the lives of the families we serve.
CHP’s AmeriCorps* VISTA Community Safety program made a difference in the lives of thousands of Columbus residents in 2003. Under the leadership of the Community Safety team and with community collaboration, CHP installed a playground at George’s Creek Apartments and another at Heyl Elementary School for National Youth Service Day. In addition to completing beautification projects throughout central city neighborhoods, CHP has formed or re-established twenty Blockwatch programs, while back-to-school book and supply give-aways served over 3,000 youth in more than 20 Columbus communities in 2003.
After an extensive organizational and fiscal assessment of our organization by Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation, CHP was asked to become a member of NeighborWorks®. This new partnership includes admission to the Multifamily Initiative and the Campaign for Homeownership. We have also been recognized twice this year for the design of our homes. CHP received an award for South East Columbus Homes from the Columbus Landmarks Foundation for our design of four new homes in the Old Oaks Historic District. The Enterprise Social Investment Corporation (ESIC) also recognized CHP for the design and high quality construction of Greater Linden Homes, a lease-option community.
CHP’s new Interior and Exterior Maintenance/Lawn Care training was implemented to assist prospective and current homeowners. We are also taking an active role in promoting Employer Assisted Housing in collaboration with Fannie Mae and the City of Columbus. Kaufmann’s Department Stores’ generous contribution in support of homeownership will allow CHP to serve more individuals in 2004. In addition, Truberry Group’s “Design a Home” with NBC-4 will benefit CHP’s Homeownership efforts. The house, designed by residents throughout Columbus, will be completed in the spring.
Together, we are making our neighborhoods stronger, our families safer and our future brighter. Thank you for your participation and support.
Picture Caption: Amy in front of one of CHP’s homes in the greater Linden and Milo Grogan neighborhoods. Located in the Greater Linden and Milo Grogan neighborhoods in northeast Columbus, these 39 homes allow qualified residents to purchase their home at the end of the 15-year lease period. The construction of these homes has not only provided much-needed affordable housing opportunities, but has revitalized the area and created a new sense of community. CHP received recognition from the Enterprise Social Investment Corporation (ESIC) for Greater Linden Homes, a lease-option community. ESIC has created a 2004 calendar with honorees throughout the United States who have demonstrated a commitment to quality, affordable housing. One of twelve organizations selected, CHP is featured in November with photos of Greater Linden Homes.
Calendar