NeighborWorks Honors Federal, State, and Local Officials for Achievements in Affordable Housing and Community Development

For Immediate Release

March 20, 2007
Contact: Erin Angell, NeighborWorks® America, 202-220-6317; eangell@nw.org

NeighborWorks Honors Federal, State, and Local Officials for Achievements in Affordable Housing and Community Development

Washington, DC - Today U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), Steven L. Antonakes, Massachusetts commissioner of banks, Roni Atkins, rural housing director of USDA Rural Development Idaho, and Jim Rokakis, Cuyahoga County treasurer (Ohio), were honored by NeighborWorks America for their leadership in expanding the affordable housing supply for low- and moderate-income families and strengthening communities.

The four honorees received the NeighborWorks Government Service Award during a special ceremony at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C.

“These four individuals have shown unwavering commitment to and support for public policies that advance community revitalization goals,” said Ken Wade, CEO, NeighborWorks America. “Their leadership has helped transform the communities in which they serve and we are proud to honor them for their invaluable service.”

The NeighborWorks Government Service Awards honor significant contributions at the federal, state and local levels of individuals whose work improves the lives of those in communities of need. Winners have achieved substantive accomplishments that include initiating and implementing public policies and programs that strengthen communities or expand the supply of affordable housing. They are in touch with their constituents – listening to their opinions and working with them to implement strategies and policies that succeed. Their demonstrated commitment and dedication make them stand out as leaders in touch with the people they serve.

Wade commended the award winners for understanding the far-reaching impact of housing issues on individuals, the local economy and the entire nation. For every dollar spent on quality, affordable housing, at least twenty dollars are returned in the form of job creation, increased independence and tax contributions, new businesses, and access to higher education.

“With so many Americans struggling to afford housing, the commitment demonstrated by these leaders at the federal, state and local government levels is ever more important,” said Wade. “Today’s awardees recognize the multiple dividends paid through affordable housing in the form of improved community safety, stronger civic engagement, and better outcomes for low- and moderate-income families.”

For more information about the NeighborWorks Government Service Awards and the 2007 award winners, please visit www.nw.org/network/policy/award.asp, or contact Erin Angell, 202-220-6317.

NeighborWorks America provides financial support, technical assistance and training for communities across the nation through the NeighborWorks network of over 235 nonprofit organizations covering nearly 4,500 urban, suburban and rural communities. These organizations engage in revitalization strategies that strengthen communities and transform lives. In the last five years alone, NeighborWorks organizations have generated more than $12 billion in reinvestment and helped more than 845,000 families of modest means purchase or improve their homes, or secure safe, decent rental or mutual housing.

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