This week was a pivotal moment for Iowa and the country alike. Regardless of politics, change is in the air. Now, more than ever, it’s imperative to push forward together and fight for affordable housing. 

The Iowa Housing Partnership was created in 2017, when a group of people sat around a table in Cedar Rapids, prior to the annual state housing conference. Fast forwarding to where we stand today, it shows how time truly flies.

As a part of the Iowa Housing Partnership email list, we will be sending membership forms next week. If you have been a member previously, thank you for your support and we ask you to continue your membership. If you have not joined us before, please consider joining – together we are stronger!

Like many non-profits, we’ve struggled with the pandemic. Our renewals were considerably down from the first year of operations. However, like many in a crisis, we adapted. Previously, we relied on our attendance and sponsorship in conferences to get help our message out. Adapting to our ‘new normal,’ we’re significantly changing our operations for 2021. 

What does this mean?

In 2021, the Iowa Housing Partnership will implement steps to considerably increase outreach to and engage our members. These actions are:

Increase interaction with IHP Members & Stakeholders. The Board will conduct frequent face-to-face (or virtual) meetings each month with members and stakeholders to gain direct feedback.

Host Regional Meetings to Reinforce Relationships. IHP will facilitate a series of “mini HousingIowa” meetings. These meetings will be held approximately 6 times a year, as a morning or afternoon session, locally (or virtually) to connect regional stakeholders and deepen connections. IHP will host an annual meeting with all paid members, as well.

Increase IHP’s Visibility. We will continue to build our network of policy makers and practitioners, with a focus on each Local Housing Trust Fund, Community Action Agency (“CAA”), and Council of Governments (“COG”); federal and state legislators and staff; county, city and local economic development entities, and developers. We will also continue to promote our message on social media, our newsletters and website.

Identify Housing Needs Locally, Regionally, and Statewide. Gather information from stakeholders via a survey and facilitate follow up meetings to bring stakeholders together for meaningful interaction.

How can YOU help?