- Home
- About Us
- Housing
- Resources
- Contact Us
-
-
-
Address: 223 S. Winnebago Street Rockford, IL 61102
Phone: 815-489-8500
-
-
- Updates
-
Address: 223 S. Winnebago Street Rockford, IL 61102
Phone: 815-489-8500
Address: 223 S. Winnebago Street Rockford, IL 61102
Phone: 815-489-8500
In a dedicated pursuit to stay ahead of the evolving housing landscape, the Rockford Housing Authority (RHA) Leadership Team, led by CEO Laura Snyder and COO Odessa Walker, immersed themselves in important PHA discussions at the Public Housing Authorities Directors Association (PHADA) 2024 Commissioners Conference.
This pivotal conference, renowned for furnishing invaluable tools and information for effective housing authority management, played host to leaders navigating the complexities of the housing sector.
Laura Snyder, CEO of RHA, emphasized the transformative impact of the conference. “PHADA’s Commissioners Conference stands as a cornerstone for industry professionals. Engaging in discussions about the Rental Assistance Demonstration program, rent changes, and the revised physical inspections protocol equips us with actionable insights, enabling us to navigate the dynamic housing environment with confidence.”
As the RHA Leadership Team delved into various sessions, topics ranged from updates on Congress and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to strategic insights on programs and regulations shaping the future of housing. Odessa Walker, COO of RHA, underscored the practical relevance of the conference to their operational strategies. “For us, being at the forefront of industry trends is paramount. Sessions addressing disaster preparation, workplace policy modifications, and the expected implementation of the Build America, Buy America rule are not just discussions; they’re strategic insights that align our operations with the latest standards and fortify us for any challenges that may arise.”
The conference didn’t shy away from addressing pressing issues such as eviction prevention, workplace policy modifications, and comprehensive training for commissioners and executive directors. Tailored sessions for new executive directors aimed to facilitate a seamless transition into leadership roles, a sentiment Laura Snyder emphasized: “The dedication to new executive directors is commendable. Navigating the housing industry can be intricate, and having dedicated sessions for those stepping into leadership roles is an investment in the future of our industry. It fosters a community of capable leaders who can drive positive change.”
Active participation characterized the RHA Leadership Team’s involvement in sessions covering the staged implementation of the Housing Opportunity Through Modernization Act (HOTMA) rules and procedures, as well as potential changes in HUD’s assessment programs, PHAS and SEMAP.
As the PHADA 2024 Commissioners Conference continues, the RHA Leadership Team remains steadfast in leveraging the knowledge gained to enhance the effectiveness of their operations and contribute to the continual improvement of housing communities.
About PHADA
PHADA’s 1,900-member housing agencies represent over 1.9 million low-income housing units throughout the United States. Our members manage small, medium, large, rural, and urban housing authorities that run programs including public housing, housing choice vouchers, Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD), and a variety of other innovative public-private partnerships.
The Association provides its members with important information, professional development, and advocacy to help them administer adequate, safe housing for those in need across America. PHADA also works closely with members of Congress in efforts to develop sensible and effective public housing statutes and obtain adequate funding for low-income housing programs, in addition to advocating before the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) on a variety of regulations governing public housing nationwide.
The PHADA’s 2024 Commissioners Conference is a comprehensive event covering a wide range of topics relevant to housing authorities. The sessions are designed to provide valuable information and tools for housing authorities to effectively run their agencies.
An Overview of Some Key Topics For The Commissioners Conference.
The conference is a valuable opportunity for housing authorities and their staff to enhance their knowledge, skills, and preparedness for the challenges and changes in the housing industry.
About the Rockford Housing Authority
The Rockford Housing Authority (RHA) is a dedicated organization committed to providing safe, affordable housing and creating opportunities for low-income individuals and families in the Rockford community. Through innovative programs, partnerships, and resident-centered initiatives, RHA strives to empower residents, promote self-sufficiency, and foster thriving communities.
Our Mission
To continue to create strategic partnerships with community stakeholders, design a diverse housing portfolio, and 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.
Our Vision
RHA provides pathways for people to enhance their quality of life through inclusive, affordable, and innovative housing initiatives while investing in the education, training, and personal development of our residents through strategic programming and partnerships while serving as a facilitator for neighborhood restoration by investing in our community and remaining committed to creating an atmosphere that promotes overall health, wellness, and economic growth, for a greater quality of life.
The Rockford Housing Authority (RHA) is a municipal corporation established under Chapter 67 1/2 of the Illinois statutes. It is governed by a Board of five (5) Commissioners. The Rockford Housing Authority has historically served the housing needs of persons whose income is low and very low in the City of Rockford through HUD funded public and Section 8 housing. The Agency was established in 1951, and has provided “decent, safe, and sanitary” low-income public housing to Rockford’s citizens for decades.
Bridge Rockford Alliance, Inc. (BRaI), 501(C)(3) HUD recognized instrumentality of RHA, was established by resolution of the RHA Board of Commissioners on March 9, 2011. BRAI extends the services and opportunities of a public housing agency. Instrumentalities allow the housing authority to operate more as private organizations and expand opportunities for residents of affordable housing, housing developments and the related supporting activities i.e. health and human services. This broader reach provides BRAI the authority to seek out and enter into new business relationships as a means to support its mission.
The Rockford Housing Authority, alongside Bridge Rockford Alliance, is in transition from a provider of decent safe and sanitary housing to the leading provider of housing that meets a higher community 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.
"If you are not well, you cannot serve your communities well!" Dr. Kim Hires brought it home during our #SummerSymposium closing plenary.
Blackhawk Courts: A Rich Legacy
From its origins housing veterans to today’s vibrant community, Blackhawk Courts exemplifies RHA’s enduring commitment to quality housing and community support.
Join us in celebrating! ➡️
https://tinyurl.com/yen9dnkb
Don't forget to mark your calendars for our Community Health Fair happening tomorrow, July 13th from 11am-2pm! 🌟 Come out and get free health screenings, indulge in healthy snacks, and join in on fun fitness activities. Let's promote empowerment and healthy living!
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.