![[Company Logo Image]](images/nhs_logo_sm.png){kind=logo} |
|
|
|
|
In response to substantial population growth and increased housing prices that were resulting in lower homeownership rates, increased crime and higher turnover rates in Provo’s public schools, an independent study of housing and community needs was undertaken in 1991. This study identified the need for increased co-ordination between the public and private sectors to address issues that were leading to declining neighborhoods and limited home ownership opportunities for lower-income Provo families. Almost simultaneously a newly formed neighborhood group of residents in the Franklin Neighborhood began to address neighborhood issues that it felt were causing decline in its community. This Franklin neighborhood group carefully researched organizations that were addressing neighborhood decline in other cities and discovered the successful efforts of a network of non-profit organizations, NeighborWorks Organizations (NWO) in other communities including the Salt Lake City Neighborhood Housing Services Program. NWO programs had been operating in various communities, throughout the country, since the 1970’s and were responsible for the remodeling of thousands of homes and increased homeownership for lower income families. NWO programs were developed and supported by a Congressionally Chartered Federal Agency named NeighborWorks America (Formerly known as Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation) to provide organizational development support to local communities to incorporate Neighborhood Housing Services programs. In 1992 residents of the Franklin neighborhood approached the regional staff of NeighborWorks America to ask for its support in developing NHS of Provo (NHS). In 1994 NHS was incorporated and staff was first hired in 1995. The initial focus was on community organizing and neighborhood projects in the Franklin area. NHS has continually sought ways to increase community efforts and started making First Mortgage Loans, Closing Cost and Down Payment Assistance Loans and Home Improvement Loans in 1996. In 1999 NHS made the decision to expand some of its programs and services outside the Franklin area to neighborhoods such as Maeser, Dixon, Timp, and Joaquin. These areas of Provo City were experiencing the same problems as those occurring in Franklin. In addition to facilitating home ownership, special volunteer events such as Farmers Market, Pride In Provo, Paint Your Heart Out, NeighborWorks Week, and Police Picnics are some of the annual events that NHS organizes within the community to further promote stronger neighborhood relationships. At present, a large study is being conducted within our target neighborhoods to assist in measuring the work that has been done here and the work that is still needed. The study will include housing quality information and resident statistical data that will assist us in fine tuning and focusing our efforts on areas with the greatest need. For additional information, comments, sponsorship and suggestions, please contact our dedicated staff. |
|
|
