On June 5, 2024, Washington, DC, was the stage for a significant event focused on affordable housing.
This event brought together key organizations, including FUSE, John Legend’s HUMANLEVEL, Living Cities, and the Brookings Institution, to discuss and promote innovative solutions for affordable housing. The event also underscored the importance of partnerships in addressing complex social issues, with FUSE’s collaborations exemplifying how diverse organizations can come together to create meaningful change in the affordable housing sector.
FUSE’s Ongoing Commitment
FUSE continues to support initiatives that promote equity and affordable housing through its FUSE Executive Fellowship program. The program places experienced leaders like Valerie Piper in key government positions to develop and implement innovative solutions. Piper’s work in Washington, DC, serves as a testament to the impact that FUSE Fellows can have on local communities.
Valerie Piper, a former FUSE Executive Fellow and current Housing Development Advisor for the DC Department of Housing and Community Development, played a pivotal role in the event. Piper has dedicated over 30 years to advancing affordable housing and community economic development. During her tenure as a FUSE Executive Fellow from 2021 to 2022, she worked closely with the District of Columbia to advance affordable housing production and preservation in line with the city’s Housing Equity Goals. Her efforts focused on developing a strategic investment framework to expand and strengthen affordable housing options, leveraging programs like the First Right Purchase Assistance Program to preserve existing affordable housing.
Moving Forward
The event concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to continue their efforts in advocating for and implementing affordable housing solutions.
As we move forward, it is essential to build on the momentum generated by this event and continue to push for policies and initiatives that ensure everyone has access to safe and affordable housing. The insights and strategies shared during this gathering will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of housing policy and community development.
For more information on the event and the organizations involved, visit FUSE, HUMANLEVEL, Living Cities, and Brookings Institution.
