In the past few months, the IAFR Northern Colorado team has been taking steps toward securing a property for the housing initiative, which will be a major focus once I’ve settled into ministry there in Fort Morgan.
The plan is to have a two-year residential program that provides:
Space to address recovery needs such as spiritual and emotional well-being, capacity building, and opportunities for contribution to the community.
A mechanism to save money and work towards integration goals such as home ownership and/or post-secondary education that lay the foundation for generational stability.
A few weeks ago, the team took initial steps to acquire a property for a new build. God brought together a great group of people, including the landowner and an architect who provided a beautiful draft of a four-unit setup. Unfortunately, the early plans came up against a strong “not in my backyard” resistance in the community. Sadly, one of the reasons named was the desire to exclude certain people groups from residing in the neighborhood. While it was not a surprise, it was disappointing.
As all of this was happening a four-plex came onto the market. There are existing renters, some of whom might be interested and eligible for the program being envisioned. There is now a potential investor on board with the housing initiative who is in conversation with a local realtor about purchasing the property. We are praying about the timing and potential in all of this.
There is a significant amount of funding that still needs to be raised to get the housing initiative started and functioning well. If you are aware of foundations with priorities that might align with the mission of this initiative, please let me know.
Once all of this comes into place, the plan is for me to become the housing manager. I will be responsible for handling property maintenance needs, engaging with the residents both for practical needs and development of relationships, and connecting with local churches to encourage community involvement in housing initiative activities (e.g., events, maintenance/construction, financial support).
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