A quality home is the foundation
of society & community

A quality home is the foundation of society & community

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Under the leadership of CEO Laura Snyder, the Rockford Housing Authority has achieved several significant accomplishments, including the creation of the Homeownership Program, the development of job training under the banner of the Life Force Development Institute leading to employment opportunities, advocacy for affordable housing policies and resources, and a focus on resident empowerment and community engagement. Ms. Snyder's leadership has been instrumental in bringing about positive change and transformation within RHA and the broader community it serves.

Important Messages From Laura Snyder, RHA CEO

Honoring Single Mothers Recognizing Resilience and Support

May InFocus Newsletter Article

NOTE TO THE READER

Laura e Snyder, CEO of RHA explores the recognition of single mothers on Mother’s Day, the challenges they face, and how the Rockford Housing Authority supports these residents by providing resources and opportunities to help them thrive. Through a comprehensive approach that addresses housing insecurity, childcare assistance, career development, financial empowerment, and community engagement, RHA plays a vital role in empowering single mothers to overcome obstacles and create a better future for themselves and their children. To Lean more how RHA supports our residents please visit,  https://launchmyfuture.com/

Mother’s Day is a time of celebration, a day when we come together to honor the women who have shaped our lives with their love, guidance, and sacrifice. While this day is filled with flowers, cards, and expressions of gratitude, it’s also an opportunity to recognize and uplift a group of mothers who often go unrecognized: single mothers. These remarkable women, who shoulder the responsibility of raising their children on their own, face unique challenges and obstacles in their journey toward providing a stable and nurturing environment for their families. Over 73 plus years, the Rockford Housing Authority has played a vital role in supporting single mothers by providing resources and opportunities to help them overcome these challenges and thrive.

Single mothers are the backbone of countless families across the nation and our community, and their resilience in the face of adversity is nothing short of inspiring. From balancing work and parenting to navigating financial insecurity, single mothers often find themselves juggling multiple responsibilities with limited resources. The challenges they encounter are manifold, ranging from inadequate access to affordable housing and childcare to limited career opportunities and unequal pay. In Rockford, as in many communities today, young mothers are grappling with economic disparities and housing shortages, these challenges can be particularly daunting for these single mothers striving to provide for their children and create a better future.

One of the most pressing challenges single mothers face is securing safe and affordable housing for their families. The high cost of rent and limited availability of affordable housing options can force single mothers and their children into unstable living situations, perpetuating a cycle of housing insecurity and instability. For single mothers struggling to make ends meet, the prospect of finding a safe and nurturing environment for their children can seem like an insurmountable task.

However, amidst these challenges, I believe RHA has stood as a beacon of light, to support single mothers in the community, offering a range of resources and opportunities to help them overcome obstacles and achieve stability. At the heart of RHA’s mission is a commitment to providing affordable housing options that meet the diverse needs of Rockford’s residents, including single mothers and their families. Through its diverse housing portfolio, RHA helps ensure that single mothers have access to safe, decent, and affordable housing options that serve as the foundation for building a brighter future.

Beyond providing housing assistance, RHA recognizes the holistic needs of single mothers and offers a comprehensive array of support services to address these needs. From childcare assistance through our community partners and job training programs to financial education workshops and access to healthcare services, RHA’s human service programming is designed to empower single mothers with the tools and resources they need to succeed. By leveraging partnerships with local organizations, non-profits, and educational institutions, RHA creates a network of support that fosters community engagement, empowerment, and self-sufficiency among single mothers and their families.

One of the key ways in which RHA supports single mothers is through its commitment to providing access to affordable childcare options. Recognizing that childcare costs can be a significant barrier to employment and economic stability for single mothers, RHA offers subsidies, vouchers, and sliding-scale fees to make homes more accessible and affordable. * By alleviating the financial burden of housing, RHA enables single mothers to pursue employment or educational opportunities without compromising the well-being of their children, laying the groundwork for long-term economic security and independence.

In addition to childcare and housing assistance, RHA offers a range of career development programs and job training opportunities tailored to the needs of single mothers. Such as our Job Plus Initiative and our Life Development Institute.  These programs provide skills training, career counseling, resume assistance, and job placement services to help single mothers secure better-paying jobs and advance in their careers. By investing in education and skill-building initiatives, such as the Family Self-Sufficiency Program, RHA empowers single mothers to break the cycle of poverty, achieve economic stability, and create a better future for themselves and their children.

RHA’s ongoing commitment to financial education and empowerment equips single mothers with the knowledge and skills to manage their finances effectively and plan for the future. Through financial literacy workshops, one-on-one coaching sessions, and access to resources such as budgeting tools and credit counseling services, RHA helps single mothers navigate the complexities of personal finance and build a solid foundation for economic success. By promoting financial stability and asset building, RHA has empowered single mothers to take control of their financial futures and pursue their goals with confidence through our Housing Choice Voucher. The HCV homeownership program allows families that are assisted under the HCV program to use their vouchers to buy a home and receive monthly assistance in meeting homeownership expenses.

Ahead of these individualized supports, RHA also fosters a sense of community and belonging among single mothers through its resident engagement initiatives and RHA’s residence support team members. By providing opportunities for single mothers to connect with and learn from each other, RHA creates a supportive environment where they can share experiences, exchange resources, and offer mutual encouragement. Through resident councils, RHA holiday events, and leadership development programs, RHA empowers single mothers to advocate for their needs, shape policies, and contribute to the collective well-being of our community.

As we celebrate Mother’s Day this year, let us take a moment to recognize the incredible resilience and strength of single mothers in our community. Let us honor their unwavering dedication to their children and their tireless efforts to create a better life for their families. And let us reaffirm our commitment to supporting single mothers by providing them with the resources, opportunities, and respect they deserve. Through the compassionate work of our staff at the Rockford Housing Authority, we can create a brighter future for single mothers and their children, where every family has the opportunity to thrive.

In conclusion, I believe single mothers play a vital role in shaping the fabric of our community, and their contributions deserve to be celebrated and supported. By acknowledging the challenges, they face and providing them with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed, we can ensure that single mothers and their children have the chance to build a better, brighter future for generations to come. As we celebrate Mother’s Day, let us stand in solidarity with single mothers and reaffirm our commitment to creating a more just, equitable, and inclusive society for all.

DID YOU KNOW ABOUT LAUNCH MY FUTURE?

  • *The Resident Opportunities Self-Sufficiency (ROSS) program is a public housing resident self-sufficiency program funded through HUD to assist residents with supportive services and service coordination. 
  • The Resident Support Specialist program provides access to services for all RHA residents living in RHA high & low rises, which may either be seniors or adults with disabilities. The program’s designed to enhance the quality of life and help residents aging in place. RSS Service Coordinators achieve this by assisting residents to maintain their independence, with or without supports as needed.
  • Services will be provided in conjunction with FSS

The services that may be provided include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Adult Education (includes GED)
  • Workshops in financial empowerment, job readiness courses, entrepreneurship
  • Home buying workshops and counseling
  • Other services necessary to help your family become self-sufficient
  • The Lifeforce Development Institute’s Job/Career Readiness Skills-based training to both RHA Clients and Residents. The LDI Curriculum addresses the foundational skill gap in the workforce with a 12-week, hands-on learning program covering Job/Career Readiness Skills meeting the community’s workforce goals.
  • The Jobs Plus Initiative is a free initiative aimed to help you gain higher wages and increase your income without increasing your rent – with the goal of reaching a self-sufficient living wage. The initiative will provide an employment specialist that will work one-on-one to help you reach your employment goals. In addition, the Employment Specialist will be able to provide employment counseling, employer linkages, job placement, and access to FREE education and training dollars for advancing your education. Residents enrolled in Jobs Plus Initiative receive the added benefit of being automatically enrolled in the Jobs Plus Earned Income Disregard (JPEID). The JPEID benefits the resident in that it will disregard any income accumulated for up to 48 months after entering the initiative, meaning any earned income from the time of enrollment in Jobs Plus will not count toward your rental certifications.

To Lean more how RHA supports our residents please visit,  https://launchmyfuture.com/

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Rockford Housing Authority Secures $10 Million Grant to Boost Residential Health and Safety

Rockford, [September 15, 2023] – The Rockford Housing Authority (RHA) is delighted to announce that we have secured a substantial $10 million grant to bolster residential health and safety within our community. This momentous achievement signifies a pivotal step in our ongoing commitment to delivering cleaner, safer living environments for our resident families, while also catalyzing local economic growth and employment opportunities.Laura Snyder, CEO of RHA, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “This grant is a game-changer for our community. It empowers us to address pressing health and safety concerns in public housing, ensuring that our residents have homes where they can thrive.”Administered under the Housing-Related Hazards (HRH) and Lead-Based Paint (LBP) Capital Funding program, this grant provides vital resources to public housing agencies (PHAs) like RHA. It equips us to evaluate and mitigate residential health hazards, including lead-based paint, carbon monoxide, mold, radon, fire safety, and asbestos – all of which directly impact the well-being of our residents.HUD Secretary Marcia Fudge emphasized the importance of this funding effort, stating, “American families deserve a safe and healthy place to call home. However, in many older homes, lead-based paint can be a serious threat to the health and well-being of children.” With this grant, we can identify and address homes where occupants are at risk of lead exposure and other health hazards, reinforcing our promise of a healthier, stronger community.Laura Snyder further emphasized, “We are dedicated to creating safe and healthy living environments. This grant aligns perfectly with our mission and enables us to protect families from hazards like lead exposure, fulfilling our promise of a healthier, stronger community.”Moreover, this grant goes beyond improving living conditions; it infuses a significant $10 million into our local economy. This financial boost not only supports our Section III efforts for employment but also generates long-term job opportunities, thereby fueling economic growth within our region.Laura Snyder expressed her gratitude to the RHA team, stating, “Our dedicated staff has played a pivotal role in securing this grant. Their unwavering commitment to our mission has made this achievement possible.”The Rockford Housing Authority eagerly anticipates the transformative impact of this remarkable $10 million grant on Rockford. Together, the organization and the community are creating a substantial positive change in the lives of residents and the prosperity of the local area.

TRANSITIONING THE LOW-INCOME HOUSING PROGRAM TO HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHERS

The Rockford Housing Authority has undergone a significant change in strategy with the transition of the Low-Income Housing Program to Housing Choice Vouchers and the deconstruction of aging buildings. This change was made possible due to the leadership and management of the Chief Operating Officer, Laura Snyder. Due to Ms. Snyder’s leadership, the RHA team was able to create a new direction for the organization by transitioning the Low-Income Housing Program to Housing Choice Vouchers. This required a shift in organizational culture to support and sustain the new direction. Ms. Snyder was instrumental in communicating the reasons for the change and seeking input from staff and the community on how to make the transition as smooth as possible. This helped build buy-in and ownership of the new approach. One of the biggest challenges in making this change was ensuring staff had the necessary training and support to implement the new program effectively. Snyder recognized this challenge and provided ongoing support, including resident programs, to ensure staff felt confident in their roles and could help the relocation program succeed.

The relocation of RHA residents was a significant challenge that required clear communication and involvement from staff and the community. Snyder led the effort to communicate the reasons for the deconstruction and the benefits it would bring to the residents, including the elderly and vulnerable seniors who could be negatively impacted by aging buildings. She also ensured that staff had the necessary training and support to assist with the relocation of residents, making the transition as smooth as possible. Snyder’s leadership and management skills were also evident in how she celebrated successes and milestones achieved during the transition. This helped build morale and motivated staff to continue their efforts. Encouraging feedback and continuous improvement was also crucial. By listening to staff and the community’s feedback, Snyder identified areas for improvement and demonstrated her commitment to continuous improvement.

ACHIEVING SIGNIFICANT MILESTONES & ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Ms. Snyder has a strong commitment to ethics and integrity developing policies and procedures to ensure that all RHA operations are conducted in an ethical and transparent manner. Due to the direction of CEO Laura Snyder, the Rockford Housing Authority has achieved several significant accomplishments in recent years. One of the most notable achievements is the new HUD designation as a Move to Work agency and the expansion of the RHA’s Family Self Sufficiency, Homeownership Program. The program provides low-income families with the opportunity to purchase their own homes and build equity, a significant step toward achieving financial stability and independence. Snyder recognized the need for such a program and led the effort to make it a reality. She worked closely with community partners and stakeholders to secure funding and resources for the program and developed policies and procedures to ensure its success.

BUILDING PARTNERSHIPS WITH LOCAL BUSINESSES & ORGANIZATIONS

She has been an advocate for resident empowerment and community engagement. Ms. Snyder’s Leadership Team created new partnerships with local businesses and organizations to provide job training and employment opportunities to residents. Ms. Snyder recognized that unemployment and underemployment were significant barriers to self-sufficiency and economic stability for RHA residents. She and her team worked to build partnerships with local businesses and organizations with the Jobs Plus Program to create employment opportunities for RHA residents. The program has been a great success, providing many RHA residents with the skills and experience needed to secure and maintain good-paying jobs. Ms. Snyder has also been instrumental in advocating for affordable housing policies and resources at the local, state, and federal levels. She has worked closely with elected officials and community leaders to raise awareness of the need for affordable housing and to secure funding and resources for the RHA and other affordable housing providers in the region.

A CHAMPION OF RHA'S RESIDENT FOCUS

Ms. Snyder has been a champion of resident safety and security. She recognized that crime and violence were significant concerns for RHA residents and worked to implement new safety and security measures. She and the RHA Leadership Team worked closely with law enforcement agencies and community partners to develop and implement a comprehensive security plan that includes increased patrols, improved lighting, and other measures to deter crime and promote safety. As a result, RHA properties have become safer and more secure, providing residents with a greater sense of peace and security.

In conclusion, the RHA’s significant change in strategy with the transition of the Low-Income Housing Program to Housing Choice Vouchers and the deconstruction of aging buildings was made possible due to the leadership and management of the Chief Executive Officer, Laura Snyder. Her focus on clear communication, involvement, training and support, transparency, celebration, feedback, continuous improvement, and responsiveness has been instrumental in creating shared understanding and support among RHA staff, residents, and the community. Ms. Snyder’s leadership provides an example of how effective leadership can bring about positive change and transformation within an organization.

Ms. Snyder’s overarching goal is to always improve the quality of life for RHA residents. Her focus on resident empowerment, community engagement, affordable housing policies and resources, rehabilitation and renovation of RHA properties, wellness programs, and safety and security measures have all contributed to the RHA’s continued success in providing safe, affordable, and sustainable housing solutions for low-income families and individuals in the Rockford area.

Laura Snyder, Chief Executive Officer

Laura Snyder, the CEO, is responsible for the financial and operational success of RHA. With over 17 years of experience with Public Housing, Laura has assisted in the development of our safety and security programs and, currently holds certifications as a Housing Choice Voucher specialist, Public Housing Manager, and Tax Credit specialist.

Laura has been a valued member of the RHA Directors and Leadership team. Formerly the Director of Housing Operations for the RHA she was responsible for leading the Housing Choice Voucher, Public Housing, and Maintenance teams to peak performance and to develop and implement initiatives to improve program integrity within HCV and Public Housing programs.

At the Rockford Housing Authority, our Ten Core Values are the foundation upon which we build everything we do. They guide us in our daily operations, decision-making, and interactions with others. We put these values at the forefront of every plan, event, and project we undertake because we care deeply about our employees, our residents, our strategic partners, and the greater Rockford community. Our Core Values enable us to operate with a shared vision and a common purpose. By embodying these values, we create a culture of excellence that permeates every aspect of our organization. We understand that our employees are the backbone of our organization, and we strive to create an environment that is respectful, collaborative, and professional. This, in turn, empowers our employees to deliver high-quality services and support to our residents. Our commitment to these values also ensures that we are accountable and transparent in our operations. We understand that we have a responsibility to our residents, our partners, and the community, and we take that responsibility seriously. We hold ourselves to the highest standards of integrity and ethics, ensuring that we are always operating in the best interests of those we serve. Ultimately, our Core Values are what sets us apart at the Rockford Housing Authority. By living these values every day, we are able to make a positive impact on the lives of our residents and the community at large.

CREATING A CULTURE OF EXCELLENCE: THE IMPORTANCE OF CORE VALUES AT THE ROCKFORD HOUSING AUTHORITY

As the CEO of the Rockford Housing Authority, I have been committed to transforming the organization into one that is more responsive to the needs of our residents and the community. I believe that strong leadership is essential to achieving this goal, and I have worked hard to develop my own leadership skills over the years. I am committed to leading an organization that embodies our Ten Core Values: Leadership, Respectful, Quality, Accountable, Integrity, Consistent, Resourcefulness, Caring, Collaborative, and Professional.  I understand the importance of setting a clear direction for the organization and developing a strategic plan that aligns with our mission and goals. I also believe in empowering staff members and residents to take ownership of their own success.

Resourcefulness is a precept that I embrace to ensure that we make the most of our limited resources. We are constantly seeking new and innovative ways to deliver high-quality services to our residents while operating efficiently and effectively. Consistency is also important to us at RHA. We strive to be consistent in our policies, procedures, and practices to ensure fairness and equity for all residents and staff members.

Collaboration is essential to our success at RHA. We work closely with community organizations, government agencies, and other stakeholders to develop and implement solutions that benefit our residents and the broader community. I believe that one of my key strengths as a leader is my ability to see the big picture and develop a clear vision for RHA. I understand the importance of strategic planning and have identified key priorities to achieve our long-term goals. I believe that collaboration is essential to success, and I have worked hard to build strong partnerships with community organizations, government agencies, and other stakeholders.

Integrity is an axiom that is essential to me in building trust and credibility with our residents, partners, and stakeholders. I and my Leadership Team are committed to conducting all of our operations with the highest levels of honesty and transparency. Being an adaptive leader is very important to me, I am able to adjust plans and strategies as needed to respond to changing circumstances. I believe in empowering residents and staff members to take ownership of their own success and have provided training and development opportunities to help them build the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. We also prioritize Quality in everything we do at Rockford Housing Authority. We strive to provide high-quality housing and services to our residents, and we are committed to continuous improvement in all areas of our organization.

Respectful communication is another key value that I prioritize. I believe that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and I work to create a culture where open communication and feedback are valued. Transparency and ethics are also important to me as a leader. I believe in open communication and have worked to ensure that RHA operations are conducted in an ethical and transparent manner. I also believe in the importance of diversity and inclusion and have developed programs and initiatives to promote these values.

Accountability is another core tenet that we embrace at RHA. We hold ourselves accountable for delivering on our commitments and for maintaining high standards of performance. I understand the importance of connecting with others on a personal level. Caring is a core value that we all prioritize. We understand that our residents are facing challenges in their lives, and we are committed to providing them with the support and resources they need to succeed. Finally, I believe we strive to maintain a high level of Professionalism in all of our interactions and operations. We hold ourselves to the highest standards of ethical conduct and strive to be a model of professionalism for our staff members and residents.

By embodying these Ten Core Values, we are able to create a culture of excellence at RHA and work together to achieve our mission of providing safe, decent, and affordable housing for all residents, by which we will continue to build a stronger, more sustainable community in Rockford.

View the RHA Newsletter Articles From The RHA CEO, Laura Snyder

Laura Snyder: Transforming Communities, One Visionary Step at a Time

Meet Our CEO: Laura Snyder

Welcome to the Rockford Housing Authority – where community transformation is not just a goal but a reality. At the helm of this transformative journey stands our CEO, Laura Snyder, a visionary leader with an unwavering commitment to empowering

residents and revitalizing neighborhoods.

With five years of remarkable leadership, Laura has not only made a significant impact but also set new standards for excellence in the realm of

affordable housing and community development.

Under Laura’s guidance, RHA has secured unprecedented funding that has fueled our mission to provide affordable, safe, and thriving communities:

  • A remarkable $2.3 million Jobs Plus award, creating employment opportunities and empowerment for our residents.
  • Annual awards totaling $219,000 for three years and $144,000 for two years for the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program, supporting families on their journey to self-reliance.
  • A $731,000 award for the Resident Opportunity and Self-Sufficiency (ROSS) program, emphasizing resident empowerment and self-improvement.
  • A commitment to safety with a $240,000 award for Radon remediation, ensuring our residents’ health.
  • A monumental $5 million award for Lead-Based Paint remediation, addressing a critical health hazard.
  • Another $5 million award for tackling Housing-related Hazards, emphasizing our dedication to safe living conditions.
  • A focus on homeownership through the Low-Income Public Housing (LIPH) program.
  • Innovative Section III compliance and education programs that not only ensure compliance but also generate revenue, earning accolades as award-winning programs.
  • Securing utility company funding of $1,036,782.00 for essential upgrades in Blackhawk and Scattered Sites.
  • Achieving full compliance with HUD reporting requirements, ensuring transparency and accountability.
  • Doubling reserves, strengthening our financial foundation.
  • Securing multiple grants, including $5,000 grants from Associated Bank for Resident Programming, a $15,000 grant from BMO for Resident Home Ownership, and a $5,000 grant from the Community Foundation.

Laura’s vision for redevelopment has breathed new life into our communities:

  • Successful recapture of Scattered Sites from Gorman, ensuring greater control over housing resources.
  • Securing section 18 awards for Brewington Oaks and Fairgrounds, ushering in redevelopment strategies and creating employment opportunities.
  • A development plan for Bridge Rockford to increase affordable housing units in the community.

Efficient operations form the backbone of our organization:

  • A robust COVID-19 response, including a dedicated website and an employee salary protection plan.
  • Effective manageent during a government shutdown, demonstrating adaptability and resilience.
  • Attaining Moving to Work (MTW) status, creating three internal employment positions and increasing opportunities for self-improvement.
  • Successful relocations for Brewington Oaks and Fairgrounds residents, ensuring their comfort and safety throughout the process.
  • Prioritizing ongoing training for staff, including advanced training for key team members.
  • The introduction of an automated payroll platform for efficiency and a self-service portal for employees, streamlining administrative processes.

Laura’s commitment to resident well-being extends beyond housing:

  • Over 52 partnerships with community agencies to provide wrap-around services, ensuring residents have the support they need.
  • Certification as instructors for Bridges out of Poverty and LIHEAP case workers, adding valuable revenue sources while addressing critical community needs.
  • Establishing Empowerment Centers at Blackhawk and COCC, creating hubs of support and empowerment.
  • Facilitating homeownership through the Low-Income Public Housing (LIPH) program.
  • Award-winning programs, including the Youth & Police officer program and Resident Relations, showcasing innovative community-building and positive engagement.
  • The creation of the Women of Influence annual event, celebrating the achievements and contributions of women in the community.
  • A commitment to digital empowerment with the ConnectHome program, securing additional grants to provide devices to participants.
  • The launch of the Life Force Development Institute, including the “Launch My Future” website, opening up new opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Laura’s leadership extends beyond RHA:

  • Active service on three PHADA boards, staying updated on regulatory changes, ensuring compliance, and guiding affordable housing direction.
  • Implementation of an automated payroll and human resources platform for increased efficiency.
  • Current service on five local boards and workgroups, including Community Action, Violence Reduction, Peace and Non-Violence, and the Early Learning Council, showcasing dedication to addressing broader community issues.
  • Development of department Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for clear guidance and expectations.
  • Creation of succession plans for key staff members, ensuring organizational continuity and stability.
  • The establishment of an employee recognition program, “Directors Spotlight,” and an all-staff City-Wide Scavenger Hunt / Amazing Race, fostering a positive and motivated work environment.

Laura’s advocacy efforts have reshaped our community:

  • Positive relationships with elected officials, garnering support for redevelopment projects and changing the perception of public housing.
  • A successful rebranding strategy that removed the negative connotation of Public Housing, highlighting the successes of our agency, staff, and residents.

Laura Snyder’s leadership at the Rockford Housing Authority has transformed lives and communities. Her dedication to financial stewardship, redevelopment, operational excellence, human services, leadership, and community engagement is evident in every aspect of our organization. As we continue this journey of transformation, the future holds even more promise for our residents and the community we serve, thanks to Laura’s tireless dedication and vision.

To continue to create strategic partnerships with community stakeholders, design a diverse housing portfolio, leverage social service programming to unite and ensure residents are provided with safe and nurturing environments that lead to self-sufficiency, responsibility, and individual empowerment.

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Within 5 years the RHA will re-establish itself as high performing agency that is a leader in housing and sustainable communities by developing additional, non-HUD revenue streams, increasing our asset base and offering state of the art resident initiatives.

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