Tag Archives: Atlanta Business

Millionaire Mastermind Academy Expands National Impact, Empowering Over 8,000 Minority Women Entrepreneurs

2023-2024 Annual Report Highlights Groundbreaking Entrepreneur Curriculum and Strategic Partnerships Driving Economic Equity

ATLANTA, Ga., Feb. 10, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Millionaire Mastermind Academy (MMA), a nationally recognized nonprofit organization, has released its 2023-2024 Annual Impact Report, underscoring its proprietary entrepreneur curriculum and the power of strategic national partnerships in creating pathways to financial independence for minority women entrepreneurs. With a strong presence in Georgia, Texas, Florida, and Arizona, MMA has supported over 8,000 entrepreneurs, empowering them with the education, mentorship, and resources needed to build and scale successful businesses.

Image caption: Millionaire Mastermind Academy Empowers Over 8,000 Minority Women Entrepreneurs.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE IMPACT REPORT – https://millionairemastermindacademy.org/impact-report/

A COMMITMENT TO ENTREPRENEURIAL EDUCATION AND ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT

Millionaire Mastermind Academy remains dedicated to eradicating poverty through entrepreneurship, equipping minority women with business training, financial literacy, and leadership development.

Its proprietary entrepreneur curriculum provides:

Comprehensive business education programs designed to build capacity, foster leadership, and create employer firms.
Hands-on support in accessing procurement and contracting opportunities, enabling women entrepreneurs to transition from sole proprietors to sustainable employer
Targeted mentorship and financial literacy training, ensuring long-term economic stability and wealth creation.
Specialized programs in supplier diversity, real estate investment, and access to capital, bridging systemic gaps in minority business success.

“Ending poverty starts with access—access to resources, education, and opportunities. That’s what we provide at Millionaire Mastermind Academy,” said Dr. Velma Trayham, Founder & Chairwoman of Millionaire Mastermind Academy. “By equipping minority women with the tools to succeed, we are driving economic transformation in historically underserved communities.”

CREATING EMPLOYER FIRMS THROUGH CONTRACTING AND PROCUREMENT SUPPORT

The Annual Report highlights MMA’s commitment to breaking systemic barriers by providing women entrepreneurs with the knowledge, support, and networks needed to secure public and private contracting opportunities.

Through targeted programs, MMA offers:

Capacity-building support to prepare businesses for growth and
Technical assistance in procurement processes and supplier certifications (e.g., MBE, DBE, WBE).
Direct access to contracting and corporate supplier diversity networks.
Strategic mentorship to help minority entrepreneurs scale and create long-term job opportunities.

This work has significantly contributed to job creation and economic revitalization in underserved communities, strengthening minority women-led businesses and accelerating economic mobility.

POWERFUL NATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS DRIVING IMPACT

A key driver of Millionaire Mastermind Academy’s success is its growing network of national funders, investors, and corporate partners, which includes:

JPMorgan Chase
Truist Bank
American Landmark Apartments
Bank of America
M&T Bank

These organizations, among many others, have played a vital role in expanding MMA’s programs, providing funding, mentorship, and access to high-value business networks. The academy remains committed to leveraging these partnerships to create economic equity and remove systemic barriers for minority women entrepreneurs.

NEWS SOURCE: Millionaire Mastermind Academy

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Millionaire Mastermind Academy), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/millionaire-mastermind-academy-expands-national-impact-empowering-over-8000-minority-women-entrepreneurs/

172 new homebuyer assistance programs and 75 new program providers emerged in 2024 to tackle homeownership affordability

Down Payment Resource's Q4 2024 HPI Report finds 2,466 homebuyer assistance programs available to support U.S. homeownership

ATLANTA, Ga., Jan. 21, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions, today released its Q4 2024 Homeownership Program Index (HPI) report. The report saw the number of homebuyer assistance programs increase by 172 and the number of entities offering them increase by 75 year-over-year (YoY), bringing the total number of available programs to 2,466.

Image caption: Down Payment Resource’s Q4 2024 HPI Report.

“We are pleased to see state and local agencies adapting to the current and ongoing housing affordability crisis by adding new programs and expanding their criteria to allow for the purchase of multi-family and manufactured housing,” said Rob Chrane, founder and CEO of DPR. “We’re also seeing more flexibility in how funds can be used — a down payment, closing costs or buying down their interest rate. In a market with few homes for sale and escalating prices, down payment assistance has become vital for many buyers in helping them to become homeowners and start building wealth through equity.”

KEY HPI REPORT FINDINGS

An examination of the existing 2,466 homebuyer assistance programs on January 8, 2025, resulted in the following key findings:

The number of U.S. homebuyer assistance programs increased by 22 over the past quarter. This represents a 1% increase over the previous quarter, and a 7% YoY increase.
Grants accounted for the largest share of program gains YoY. The most substantial YoY gains were seen in grant programs (50), combined assistance programs (49), and below-market-rate (BMR)/resale-restricted programs (21).
Local housing finance agencies added the most programs in 2024. Local housing finance agencies introduced 72 programs in Q4 2024, a 60% YoY increase. Nonprofits added 50 programs, and municipalities added 46 programs during this period.
Rise in multi-family and manufactured housing programs continues: Programs supporting multi-family purchases increased by 17% YoY, rising from 686 in Q4 2023 to 805 in Q4 2024. Similarly, programs for manufactured housing grew by 14% YoY, from 804 in Q4 2023 to 914 in Q4 2024.
2024 concluded with 196 programs offering incentives for special groups. 68 programs offer special funding for educators, 54 programs for protectors, 49 programs for military Veterans, 47 programs for firefighters, 44 programs for healthcare workers, and 47 for Native Americans.

A more detailed analysis of the Q4 2024 HPI findings, including infographics and examples of the programs described in this release, can be found on DPR’s website at https://downpaymentresource.com/professional-resource/2025-kicks-off-with-record-number-of-homebuyer-assistance-programs/.

For a complete list of homebuyer assistance programs by state, visit https://downpaymentresource.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/HPI-state-by-state-data.Q42024-1.pdf.

METHODOLOGY

Published quarterly, DPR’s HPI surveys the funding status, eligibility rules and benefits of U.S. homebuyer assistance programs administered by state and local housing finance agencies, municipalities, nonprofits and other housing organizations. DPR communicates with over 1,300 program providers throughout the year to track and update the country’s wide range of homeownership programs, including down payment and closing cost programs, Mortgage Credit Certificates (MCCs) and affordable first mortgages, in the DOWN PAYMENT RESOURCE® database.

About Down Payment Resource:

Down Payment Resource (DPR) is the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions. With a database that tracks more than 2,400 programs and toolsets for mortgage lenders, multiple listing services (MLSs) and API users, DPR helps housing professionals connect homebuyers with the assistance they need. DPR frequently lends its expertise to nonprofits, housing finance agencies, policymakers, government-sponsored enterprises and trade organizations seeking to improve housing affordability. Its technology is used by seven of the top 25 mortgage lenders, the three largest real estate listing websites and 600,000 real estate agents. For more information, visit https://downpaymentresource.com/.

X: @DwnPmtResource #downpaymentassistance #affordabilitycrisis #housingaffordability #mortgage #housingequity #downpayment

NEWS SOURCE: Down Payment Resource

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Down Payment Resource), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/172-new-homebuyer-assistance-programs-and-75-new-program-providers-emerged-in-2024-to-tackle-homeownership-affordability/

Strategic Benefits Advisors recognized among Atlanta’s top employee benefits and compensation companies for sixth year

ATLANTA, Ga., Nov. 19, 2024 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Strategic Benefits Advisors, Inc. (SBA) has been honored by the Atlanta Business Chronicle as one of Atlanta’s top employee benefits and compensation companies of 2024. This is the sixth consecutive year SBA has made the Chronicle’s annual list, which highlights metro Atlanta’s largest employers of benefits consultants. The accolade underscores SBA’s steady growth and success in delivering expert consulting and benefits delivery services to public and private-sector employers across North America.

Image caption: Strategic Benefits Advisors, Inc.

SBA has operated out of its Atlanta headquarters since 2002, supporting companies with services ranging from plan design and administration to vendor searches and actuarial services. Now, after more than two decades of continuous expansion to its client base, service offerings and team, SBA has outgrown its current office space and will soon relocate nearby to a larger, more modern facility.

“Atlanta has been a fantastic home for SBA, and we’re proud to continue building our business here,” said Mindy Zatto, CEO of Strategic Benefits Advisors. “Being recognized among the city’s top employee benefits companies for six years in a row is a testament to our team’s commitment to excellence.”

About Strategic Benefits Advisors:

Strategic Benefits Advisors, Inc. (SBA) is an independent, full-service employee benefits consulting firm focused on creatively and effectively solving complex benefits issues for clients ranging from 1,000 to over 300,000 employees. Founded in 2002 by veteran consultants Mindy Zatto and Andy Adams, SBA provides practical consulting recommendations and expert implementation of solutions for all types of employee benefits programs, including retirement, health and welfare, financial wellness and employee recognition. With an average of over 25 years in the field, SBA’s team of actuaries, consultants and systems specialists is among the most experienced in the industry.

For more information, visit https://www.sba-inc.com/.

TAGS: @AtlBizChron #EmployeeBenefits #BenefitsConsulting #Top20Companies

NEWS SOURCE: Strategic Benefits Advisors Inc.

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Strategic Benefits Advisors Inc.), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/strategic-benefits-advisors-recognized-among-atlantas-top-employee-benefits-and-compensation-companies-for-sixth-year/

Down Payment Resource highlights 49 homebuyer assistance programs offering up to $117,000 in funds for Veterans and service members

DPR reports on programs from its national down payment assistance database for Veterans Day and Military Family Appreciation Month

ATLANTA, Ga., Nov. 11, 2024 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry’s leading technology for connecting homebuyers with homebuyer assistance programs, is highlighting homebuyer assistance programs to support Veterans, service members and their surviving spouses in conjunction with Veterans Day and Military Family Appreciation Month, both observed in November. While service members are eligible for any of the 2,400-plus U.S. homebuyer assistance programs, DPR found there are 49 programs offering up to $117,000 in assistance specifically developed to help our military community members build, buy or make accessibility-related home renovations.

Image caption: Down Payment Resource (DPR).

“Owning a home is foundational to long-term financial stability, and our goal is to ensure Veterans and their families are aware of the assistance available to them,” said DPR Founder and CEO Rob Chrane. “As we celebrate Veterans Day and Military Family Appreciation Month, we’d like to thank our Veterans, service members and their families. It’s our hope that these programs can unlock the doors to homeownership and all the benefits it brings for them in the coming year.”

An analysis of the 49 programs from DPR’s database showcases the range of assistance available to promote homeownership among Veterans, active-duty service members and their surviving spouses:

Financial assistance range: The programs offer homebuyer assistance ranging from $2,500 to $117,000.
Program types: The homeownership assistance program types consist of 20 second mortgage programs, 15 grants, 12 affordable first mortgage programs, one below market rate (BMR) program, and one other program.
Repayment features: Fifteen programs offer forgivable assistance, provided that all program conditions, such as owner-occupancy, are met. Fifteen are grant programs that do not have to be repaid.
Multi-family support: Twenty-four programs support the purchase of 1-4 unit residential multifamily properties.
Veterans exemptions: In addition to the 49 programs that exclusively serve Veterans, there are 211 homebuyer assistance programs that exempt Veterans from first-time homebuyer requirements.

Individuals can search for their homebuyer assistance program eligibility for free at https://downpaymentresource.com/are-you-eligible/.

Methodology:

DPR produced homebuyer assistance program findings by analyzing its DOWN PAYMENT RESOURCE® database for programs with incentives for people with disabilities. The DOWN PAYMENT RESOURCE® database tracks the funding status, eligibility rules and benefits of all U.S. homebuyer assistance programs using data sourced from more than 1,300 housing finance agencies (HFAs), municipalities, nonprofits and other housing organizations. Homebuyer assistance programs of all types are tracked, including down payment and closing cost assistance, Mortgage Credit Certificates and affordable first mortgages.

About Down Payment Resource:

For more information, visit https://downpaymentresource.com/.

X: @DwnPmtResource #downpaymentassistance #VeteransDay #MilitaryFamilyAppreciationMonth #Veterans

NEWS SOURCE: Down Payment Resource

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/down-payment-resource-highlights-49-homebuyer-assistance-programs-offering-up-to-117000-in-funds-for-veterans-and-service-members/

Real Estate Staging Association® Announces RESA Connect 2025 in Atlanta: A Day of Education and Influencer Celebration Featuring Local Talent

ATLANTA, Ga., Nov. 8, 2024 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — The Real Estate Staging Association® (RESA®), the leading authority in professional real estate staging, is excited to announce RESA Connect 2025, taking place at the Americas Mart in Atlanta on January 14, 2025. This special one-day event offers a full day of high-impact educational sessions open to all ticket holders, followed by an exclusive evening celebration honoring the 2024 Home Staging Industry Awards winners, the Top 100 Most Influential People in Real Estate Staging, and select industry influencers.

Image caption: RESA Connect 2025 in Atlanta.

RESA Connect: Learning, Networking, and Celebrating Atlanta’s Influence

This year’s RESA Connect will spotlight Atlanta’s own, welcoming local talents like Amber Guyton, a home design influencer and speaker, and Clejan, a classically trained trap violinist who will provide unforgettable entertainment during the exclusive Influencer Dinner. RESA Connect 2025 brings together home staging professionals, interior designers, and aspiring influencers for a day of education and networking, followed by an intimate celebration of the industry’s top talent.

Event Highlights:

Educational Sessions at Americas Mart: Open to all ticket holders, featuring top speakers like Atlanta native Amber Guyton, who will share insights on building an authentic brand and creating meaningful connections in the design industry.
Exclusive Influencer Dinner: An invitation-only evening celebration honoring 2024 award winners, Top 100 influencers, and select guests. Local artist Clejan will provide a unique musical experience, blending classical violin with Atlanta’s hip hop spirit.
Interactive Workshop Hands-on financial session designed to help attendees on the brink of 7 figures determine where they can find more profits.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers and industry leaders, building valuable relationships within the staging and design community.
Showroom Tour: Explore the latest in home staging products and services from leading vendors to elevate your projects.

Empowering Stagers to Lead and Grow in 2025

“RESA Connect is about more than just education—it’s a celebration of influence, expertise, and the local community,” said Felicia Pulley, Creative Director of RESA. “We’re thrilled to be hosting this event at the Americas Mart in Atlanta and to feature incredible local talents like Amber and Clejan. Our goal is to bring together award winners, influencers, and stagers to inspire and empower our industry for a successful year ahead.”

About the Real Estate Staging Association

The Real Estate Staging Association is the trade association for professional home stagers, dedicated to advancing excellence and professionalism in the industry through education, networking, and resources. Learn more: https://www.realestatestagingassociation.com/.

Registration and Additional Information

For more information on RESA Connect, including ticket options, sponsorship opportunities, and the event schedule, please visit RESA Connect’s official website – https://resaconnect.com/ – or contact Shell Brodnax, CEO, at shell@resa-hq.org or 209-623-5809.

NEWS SOURCE: Real Estate Staging Association

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Real Estate Staging Association), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/real-estate-staging-association-announces-resa-connect-2025-in-atlanta-a-day-of-education-and-influencer-celebration-featuring-local-talent/

Down Payment Resource finds 2,444 down payment assistance programs nationwide in its Q3 2024 data analysis

DPR's Q3 2024 HPI Report finds 29 homebuyer assistance programs were added this quarter

ATLANTA, Ga., Oct. 21, 2024 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions, today released its Q3 2024 Homeownership Program Index (HPI) report. The Q3 report saw the number of national homebuyer assistance programs increase by 29 to 2,444.

Image caption: Q3 2024 Homeownership Program Index.

Notably, the report showed a 5% increase in programs for first-generation buyers. First-generation homebuyers have been singled out by the Harris Presidential campaign, which along with building 3 million affordable housing units for rent and ownership, proposes to provide $25,000 down-payment assistance to first-time homebuyers who have paid rent on time for two years, with more generous support for qualifying first-generation homeowners.

“We are pleased to see a growing number of these programs, and think they are becoming a targeted way to help first-time and first-generation homebuyers struggling to save for a down payment get into a home they can afford,” said Rob Chrane, founder and CEO of DPR. “Our data show the average DPA benefit is roughly $17,000. That can be a nice jump-start for saving for a down payment and other costs of homeownership.”

KEY HPI REPORT FINDINGS

An examination of the existing 2,444 homebuyer assistance programs on October 1, 2024, resulted in the following key findings:

The number of U.S. homebuyer assistance programs increased by 29 over the past quarter. This represents a 1.2% increase over the previous quarter.
There was an 8% increase in below market rate/resale programs and 7% increase in grant-funded programs, and 6% increase in other homebuyer assistance from Q2 2024. Below market rate or BMR homes are affordable homes sold at a lower price than the market average and are intended for low- to moderate-income buyers. When a BMR homeowner wants to sell, they must sell the home to an income-eligible buyer.
949 municipalities offered DPA programs. Municipalities represented the majority of funding sources in Q3 2024 at 39%, which is virtually unchanged from last quarter. Nonprofits were the second highest funding source, 21% in Q3 2024, followed by state HFAs at 19%. A few of these programs have seen increases from federal program resources, including the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
777 programs supported multifamily purchases, up 7% from the previous quarter. Of those, 526 allowed for 3-unit properties, up 7% from Q2 2024, while 501 allowed for four-unit properties, up 8% from Q2 2024.
195 programs offer incentives for special groups. 35% offer special funding for educators, 29% for protectors, 26% for firefighters, 24% for healthcare workers, and 24% for Native Americans, and 22% for military homebuyers.

A more detailed analysis of the Q3 2024 HPI findings, including infographics and examples of the programs described in this release, can be found on DPR’s website at: https://downpaymentresource.com/professional-resource/the-down-payment-resource-q3-2024-homeownership-program-index-report/.

For a complete list of homebuyer assistance programs by state, visit (PDF): https://downpaymentresource.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/HPI-state-by-state-data.Q32024.pdf.

Methodology

About Down Payment Resource:

X: @DwnPmtResource #downpaymentassistance #affordabilitycrisis #housingaffordability #mortgage #housingequity #downpayment

NEWS SOURCE: Down Payment Resource

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/down-payment-resource-finds-2444-down-payment-assistance-programs-nationwide-in-its-q3-2024-data-analysis/

Georgia Black Women’s Roundtable Mobilizes Women and Youth to ‘Overload the Polls’ on First Day of Early Voting

ATLANTA, Ga., Oct. 17, 2024 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — In a powerful show of civic engagement, state and local leaders converged upon the C.T. Martin Recreation Center polling location on Tuesday for a press conference in support of “Overload the Polls,” a statewide voter mobilization effort kicking off the first day of early voting. Spearheaded by Georgia Black Women’s Roundtable (BWR), Georgia Coalition for the People’s Agenda (People’s Agenda), RISE, Black Youth Vote, and other advocacy organizations, the initiative rolled out in 32 counties across the state, aiming to drive a surge in voter participation.

Photo caption: Organizational leaders and volunteers mobilizing voters at the C.T. Martin polling location pose for a photo in front of their GOTV tour bus during Georgia Black Women’s Roundtable’s “Overload the Polls,” a voter mobilization effort happening in 32 counties across Georgia.

This widespread effort underscored the growing influence of women and young voters, and surely contributed to the historic turnout, with over 300,000 people casting their ballots on the first day of early voting—more than double the record set in 2020.

Helen Butler, executive director of People’s Agenda and convener of GA BWR, energized the crowd with her passionate call to action. “We are here today to overload the polls. We’re here to make sure our voices are heard, Black women and women in general are the highest voting demographic in Georgia. Today, we have 32 counties of women participating in this event across Georgia, and we’re all overloading those polls,” Butler declared. “Our ‘Power of the Ballot’ bus will continue touring the state to encourage voter participation.”

Former Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin emphasized the urgency of the moment. “Now it’s time to do what we said we’re going to do. It’s time to show up, stand up, and to vote – and to get everyone else out to vote. We’re starting on day one and going to finish on Nov. 5. We’re not leaving any stone unturned,” Franklin said.

Atlanta City Councilwoman Andrea Boone encouraged community involvement saying, “We want our neighbors to pick up their neighbors, text their church members, and ask businesses if they’ve voted. Then, we’re going to party at the polls.”

Highlighting the stakes of the election, Congresswoman Nikema Williams exclaimed, “Our freedoms are on the ballot. Our future is on the ballot. Today we are gathered with 32 counties across the state to overload the polls because we understand that when we vote, we win,” said Williams. “That means winning for our future and winning for our freedom.”

State Rep. Inga Willis, representing the Divine Nine, reflected on the legacy of the civil rights movement. “I stand before you today as the daughter of a 97-year-old father who walked across the Edmund Pettus Bridge. I stand before you today as the fruit of an HBCU,” Willis said. “We are here to overload the polls, vote early, and ensure that everyone in our communities does the same.”

Warning voters about potential challenges on Election Day, State Rep Shelia Jones, representing DeIta Sigma Theta Inc, asserted, “I encourage all of you to early vote because we don’t know what is going to happen to our votes on Election Day.”

Civil rights activist and attorney, Rose Sanders, who traveled from Selma, Alabama to help mobilize voters, galvanized the crowd by leading the crowd in freedom songs. She was joined by Betty Boynton and other foot soldiers who marched across the Edmund Pettus Bridge on Bloody Sunday, symbolizing the ongoing fight for voting rights.

The event concluded with a critical reminder from Butler about checking voter registration and knowing where to vote. “Check your status at MVP.sos.ga.gov, and if you need a ride to the polls, visit ridetothepoll.com or call 1-877-524-8683,” Butler urged.

The People’s Agenda (thepeoplesagenda.org) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to year-round voter registration, education, and mobilization in Black communities throughout Georgia. Founded by the late civil rights leader Dr. Joseph Lowery, the organization is led by board chair Rev. J. A. Milner and executive director, Helen Butler. It operates with headquarters in Atlanta and offices in Athens, Albany, Macon, Augusta, LaGrange, Rome and Savannah. The organization’s women’s initiative, Georgia Black Women’s Roundtable, is an affiliate of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation’s Black Women’s Roundtable.

MULTIMEDIA:

Press conference video (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bV49eHEFrkU&t=2s

PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/24-1017-s2p-gacoalition-300dpi.jpg

PHOTO CAPTION: Organizational leaders and volunteers mobilizing voters at the C.T. Martin polling location pose for a photo in front of their GOTV tour bus during Georgia Black Women’s Roundtable’s “Overload the Polls,” a voter mobilization effort happening in 32 counties across Georgia.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Edrea Davis
edmedia@dogonvillage.com
818.613.9521

NEWS SOURCE: Georgia Coalition for the Peoples Agenda

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Georgia Coalition for the Peoples Agenda), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/georgia-black-womens-roundtable-mobilizes-women-and-youth-to-overload-the-polls-on-first-day-of-early-voting/

Down Payment Resource highlights 48 Native American homebuyer assistance programs in honor of Native American Heritage Month

Analysis finds 48 programs in 13 states offering up to $90,000 in assistance designed to help Native Americans purchase a home

ATLANTA, Ga., Oct. 16, 2024 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry’s leading technology for connecting homebuyers with homebuyer assistance programs, is highlighting 48 U.S. homebuyer assistance programs in 13 states that are specifically designed to support Native Americans (American Indians and Alaska Natives) in conjunction with Native American Heritage month in October. While Native Americans may be eligible for all of the 2,400-plus U.S. homebuyer assistance programs, these 48 programs were specifically developed to provide help with down payments and other home-buying costs.

Image caption: Down Payment Resource.

The Native American homeownership rate is around 56% which is significantly lower than the national average, with a gap of roughly 15 percentage points compared to white households. The Native American-white homeownership gap exceeds 30 percentage points in five states.

While the federal government is responsible for providing funding for housing programs on tribal lands, historically this funding has been insufficient, especially in rural areas, according to the National Indian Council on Aging. These communities have many substandard housing units, including dilapidated homes, and many continue to struggle with overcrowding. Nearly 16% of households across tribal lands live in overcrowded conditions, compared to 2.2% nationally, notes the Council.

An analysis of the 48 programs showcases the range of assistance available to promote Native American homeownership.

Eligibility: Most programs are limited to members of federally recognized tribes for purchasing homes on reservations or within specified service areas.
Financial assistance range: The programs offer homebuyer assistance ranging from $2,125 to $90,000.
Income requirements: Fifteen programs have no income requirements. Thirty-one programs have income requirements that range from 80% to 120% of the Area Median Income.
Availability: Assistance programs are offered in 13 states. The states with the most programs are Oklahoma (12), Michigan (9), California (6) and Washington (5). Twenty programs are statewide and 28 are local.
Program types: The homeowner assistance programs encompass various types, including 33 second mortgage programs, nine grant programs, four matched savings programs, and two first mortgage programs. Twenty-six programs are for first-time homebuyers only, and 22 programs can be accessed by repeat buyers.
Forgivable assistance: Thirty-eight of the programs offer forgivable assistance, provided that all program conditions, such as owner-occupancy, are met, further alleviating the financial burdens for aspiring homeowners.
Housing types: All programs allow for purchase of single-family homes. Twenty-eight allow for the purchase of modular or manufactured homes.

“We welcome the growing number of programs for Native American homebuyers. We feel homeownership is an important pathway to economic prosperity and community development,” said DPR Founder and CEO Rob Chrane. “I would encourage Native American homebuyers to search our complete database of all 2,444 down payment assistance programs in the United States — the most complete such resource anywhere — to find those specific to their tribe and region that can help them achieve homeownership and start building generational wealth.”

Individuals can search for their homebuyer assistance program eligibility for free at https://downpaymentresource.com/are-you-eligible/.

Methodology:

About Down Payment Resource:

For more information, visit https://downpaymentresource.com/.

X: @DwnPmtResource #downpaymentassistance #homeownership #housingaffordability #nativeamericanheritagemonth

NEWS SOURCE: Down Payment Resource

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/down-payment-resource-highlights-48-native-american-homebuyer-assistance-programs-in-honor-of-native-american-heritage-month/

Voting Rights Groups Mobilize Voters on First Day of Early Voting in 25 Georgia Counties, Including Fulton, Bibb, Chatham, Muscogee, Bulloch, DeKalb, Henry, and Fayette

In Atlanta Congresswoman Nikema Williams, Former Mayor Shirley Franklin, Helen Butler, and MaryPat Hector will Lead Atlanta Women to 'Overload the Polls' at C.T. Martin Recreation Center at 12 NOON

ATLANTA, Ga., Oct. 15, 2024 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — At 12 PM and 4 PM on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 the first day of early voting, the Georgia Coalition for the People’s Agenda, RISE, Georgia Black Women’s Roundtable, GA Black Youth Vote, Equity for All, and other women’s and youth groups are launching “Overload the Polls,” an initiative mobilizing women and students in 25 counties across Georgia to turn out to vote en masse.

Image caption: Georgia Coalition for the Peoples’ Agenda.

In an effort to send a powerful message, women and students from urban and rural communities, as well as college campuses, are organizing their friends and families to show up and vote in large numbers. The goal is to demonstrate the collective strength of women and young voters, underscoring their ability to influence the democratic process from the very start of the voting period in Georgia.

WHO:

Georgia Coalition for the People’s Agenda, RISE, Georgia Black Women’s Roundtable, GA Black Youth Vote, and Equity for All and other groups including fraternities and sororities, women’s groups and youth organizations.

WHAT:

“Overload the Polls,” women and students will mobilize groups to vote on the first day of early voting.

HOW:

To contact a coordinator in one of the cities listed below call or text: Edrea Davis edmedia@dogonvillage.com.

WHEN/WHERE:

DATE: Tuesday Oct 15, 2024

ATLANTA — TIME: 12 NOON – 3 PM

LOCATION: C.T. Martin Recreation Center, 3201 M.L.K. Jr Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30311

STONECREST — TIME: 4 PM

LOCATION: Former Sam’s Club Building, 2994 Turner Hill Road. Stonecrest, GA 30038

Call or text 818.613.9521 or email edmedia@dogonvillage.com to locate coordinators that will Overload the Polls at 12 NOON and 4 PM in the following counties that (there are multiple locations in most counties):

Baldwin
Barrow
Bibb
Bulloch
Burke
Carroll
Chatham
Cherokee
Clarke
Clayton
Cobb
Coffee
Columbia
Coweta
Crisp
Dekalb
Dooly
Dougherty
Douglas
Elbert
Fayette
Floyd
Forsyth
Fulton
Greene
Gwinnett
Harris
Hatham
Henry
Houston
Jackson
Liberty
Locust Grove
Lowndes
Madison
Muskogee
Newton
North Fulton
Oglethorpe
Paulding
Peach
Polk
Rockdale
Rockdale
Screven
South Fulton
Thomas
Tift
Troup
Union
Upson
USA
Walton
Washington
Wilkes

ABOUT THE PEOPLE’S AGENDA/GA BLACK WOMEN’S ROUNDTABLE:

The People’s Agenda is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to year-round voter registration, education, and mobilization in Black communities throughout Georgia. Founded by the late civil rights leader Dr. Joseph Lowery, the organization is led by board chair Rev. J. A. Milner and executive director, Helen Butler. It operates with headquarters in Atlanta and offices in Athens, Albany, Macon, Augusta, LaGrange, and Savannah. The organization’s woman’s initiative, Georgia Black Women’s Roundtable, is an affiliate of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation’s Black Women’s Roundtable. This intergenerational leadership development, mentoring, and empowerment arm focuses on advocating for justice and equitable public policies for Black women and girls. Learn more: Learn more: https://thepeoplesagenda.org/.

ABOUT RISE:

Founded in 2017, RISE is a college student and youth-led nonprofit fighting to make higher education accessible and affordable for all by building students’ political power. Rise creates campaigns to advance policies and strategies to make college more accessible and affordable, and mobilizes students and young people to become lifelong voters. Rise track record of major wins includes: launching or scaling free college for thousands of students across states including California, Georgia, New Mexico, and Wisconsin, and contacting a combined 1 million youth voters since 2018.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Edrea Davis
edmedia@dogonvillage.com
Phone/Text: 818.613.9521

NEWS SOURCE: Georgia Coalition for the Peoples Agenda

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/voting-rights-groups-mobilize-voters-on-first-day-of-early-voting-in-25-georgia-counties-including-fulton-bibb-chatham-muscogee-bulloch-dekalb-henry-and-fayette/

HBCU Green Fund Presents GreenFest 2024: A Celebration of Sustainability, Culture, and Community Unity

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- The HBCU Green Fund is proud to announce GreenFest 2024, a vibrant celebration of sustainability, culture, and the power of unity within the Black community on Saturday, September 7, at Truly Living Well Farm in Atlanta, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The free, public event will feature food, live performances, eco workshops, activities for children, and an opportunity to meet V-103s Big Tigger who will broadcast live from the event.

GreenFest 2024 is not just an event - it's a movement. As an integral component of the HBCU Green Fund's commitment to environmental justice and sustainability, GreenFest offers attendees a chance to enjoy delicious plant-based, zero-waste food options and engage in demonstrations that highlight sustainable living practices. Whether you're working on environmental, climate, or democracy issues, eager to learn, or simply looking for a great time, GreenFest has something for everyone.

Popular comedian De'Anthony Turner will join Comedy Hype's CEO, Jon Aba, along with DJ Dolph, DJ Cavem (Dr. Letef), and performances by Ras Kofi, Bodile Balams, and Mausiki Scales & The Common Ground Collective. The family will enjoy a Kids Zone with storytelling, face painting, and a petting zoo. For our Facebooking seniors, we've created a Cool Zone where they can relax, while social media enthusiasts find plenty of Instagram-worthy moments to capture the day's excitement.

A special treat throughout the day is the HBCU Green Fund's presentation of the GreenFest 2024 Environmental Champion Awards, honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to creating a greener, healthier, and more equitable community in Atlanta. This year's honorees include Daniel Blackman, Renaissance94; Auna Tyson, Strive Transit; Chandra Farley, City of Atlanta; Adrienne Rice, Sustainable Georgia; Raina Turner-Greenlea, Black Sustainability; and Jasmine Crowe; Goodr.

Truly Living Well Farm is conveniently located at 324 Lawton St. SW, within walking distance of the Atlanta University Center. For those driving to GreenFest, ample free parking will be available, and HBCU Green Fund's partner, Strive Transit, will provide free shuttles to and from the event.

About the HBCU Green Fund:

Based in Atlanta, GA, with an office in Washington, DC, the HBCU Green Fund is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and active leader in the Greening American Cities initiative in Atlanta. Working with historically black colleges and universities and in their surrounding communities, to advance environmental justice, the organization promotes student engagement in initiatives to address climate change and trains the next generation of global green leaders in the US and Africa through programs like the Atlanta University Center Clean Energy Fellows Program.

For more information visit https://hbcugreenfund.org/ or email info@hbcugreenfund.org.

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHAckP02WuA

Image link for media: https://www.instagram.com/p/C_JWN4VJvam/

MEDIA CONTACT:
Edrea Davis, Jazzmyne PR
Email: edmedia@dogonvillage.com
Phone/Text: 818.613.9521

The HBCU Green Fund is proud to announce GreenFest 2024, a vibrant celebration of sustainability, culture, and the power of unity within the Black community on Saturday, September 7, at Truly Living Well Farm in Atlanta, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The free, public event will feature food, live performances, eco workshops, activities for children, and an opportunity to meet V-103s Big Tigger who will broadcast live from the event.

Related link: https://hbcugreenfund.org/

Mortgage industry veteran Brad Cardwell joins Down Payment Resource as vice president of sales and business development

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry's leading technology for connecting homebuyers with homebuyer assistance programs, today announced 20-year mortgage industry veteran Brad Cardwell has joined DPR as its vice president of sales and business development.

In his new role, Cardwell will lead DPR's enterprise sales, growing both its sales team and partner network, with the goal of making more housing professionals and consumers aware of the availability and benefits of DPA for a range of homebuying expenses and property types.

"We are very excited to have someone of Brad's stature and experience join DPR to extend our sales efforts at a very critical time for our company," said DPR Founder and CEO Rob Chrane. "In the midst of an ongoing affordability crisis, we're seeing more program providers and more down payment assistance options than ever and it's our mission to get DPA into the hands of more homebuyers through their lender or real estate professional. There's never been a time when DPA is more important and we're looking to Brad to help us spread the word."

Cardwell started his mortgage career as a loan officer and team leader at Embrace Home Loans, where he worked for 19 years, most recently as vice president of innovation for revenue and sales enablement. In this position, he launched the Sales Enablement Product Owner role, providing oversight of sales and marketing operations, including crafting go-to-market strategies and managing its technology stack to elevate organizational productivity. As the bridge between the executive team and sales, he led improvements in systems and processes, mitigating risks for loan officers and attaining a 3.5-day reduction in Embrace's lead-to-close timeline.

He also previously served on the executive advisory board of nCino (formerly SimpleNexus, an nCino Company), providing feedback for the product and roadmap.

"I'm especially grateful for this opportunity to contribute to a company that is truly making a difference," Cardwell said. "DPR is at the forefront of helping homebuyers access down payment assistance programs making homeownership more attainable for many. I'm inspired by their mission and can't wait to dive in and collaborate with such an innovative and dedicated team."

About Down Payment Resource:

Down Payment Resource (DPR) is the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions. With a database that tracks more than 2,400 programs and toolsets for mortgage lenders, multiple listing services (MLSs) and API users, DPR helps housing professionals connect homebuyers with the assistance they need. DPR frequently lends its expertise to nonprofits, housing finance agencies, policymakers, government-sponsored enterprises and trade organizations seeking to improve housing affordability. Its technology is used by seven of the top 25 mortgage lenders, the three largest real estate listing websites and 600,000 real estate agents. For more information, visit https://downpaymentresource.com/.

X/Twitter: @DwnPmtResource #downpaymentassistance #affordablehousing #downpayment

Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry's leading technology for connecting homebuyers with homebuyer assistance programs, today announced 20-year mortgage industry veteran Brad Cardwell has joined DPR as its vice president of sales and business development.

Related link: https://www.downpaymentresource.com/

Federal funds fuel quarterly growth in U.S. down payment assistance programs, which now number 2,415

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions, today released its Q2 2024 Homeownership Program Index (HPI) report. The Q2 report saw the national homebuyer assistance programs increase by 42 to 2,415 - the highest count on record. Much of this quarter's increase in program count was due to local agencies pulling more heavily from federal funding to support homebuyer assistance.

"It's very encouraging to see more state HFAs allocating American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) funds to support homeownership. We think this indicates that local municipalities are increasingly viewing affordable homeownership as a stabilizing force that fosters prosperity within communities," said Rob Chrane, founder and CEO of DPR. "We are also particularly encouraged by the rise in programs targeting first-generation homebuyers to ensure more Americans can achieve the dream of homeownership."

Key HPI Report Findings

An examination of the existing 2,415 homebuyer assistance programs on July 1, 2024, resulted in the following key findings:

* The number of U.S. homebuyer assistance programs increased by 42 quarterly. This represents a 2% increase over the previous quarter and 213 more programs than in Q2 2023.

* 29 more program providers supported homebuyer assistance in Q2 2024 than the previous quarter.

* Federally-funded programs are on the rise.

o 24 programs are now funded by the ARPA, a 26% increase from the previous quarter and a 200% increase year-over-year (YoY). The ARPA authorized $350 billion in 2021 to help state, local, and tribal governments respond to and recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. APRA-funded homebuyer assistance programs are on the rise because governments must return funds to the Treasury Department if they are not allocated by December 31, 2024, and spent by December 31, 2026.

o The number of programs funded by HHS increased by 19% quarterly and 121% annually to 31 programs. Many studies have shown that stable housing positively impacts the health of individuals and families. This understanding is likely why HHS is increasingly supporting affordable housing.

* 21 programs target first-generation buyers, a 133% increase from 9 in Q1 2024. First-generation homebuyers are less likely to receive financial assistance from their parents for a downpayment and other upfront home-buying costs. "This is a recent trend we are seeing in the past year or so that started with a few pilot programs and is now being replicated by agencies throughout the country," said Chrane.

* 970 programs allow for repeat buyers, while 1,445 are restricted to first-time buyers. "While the majority of programs are for first-time buyers, we've seen a steady uptick in the number of programs that allow for repeat buyers," said Chrane, noting that the YoY change is 11%.

A more detailed analysis of the Q2 2024 HPI findings, including infographics and examples of the programs described in this release, can be found on DPR's website at https://downpaymentresource.com/professional-resource/the-down-payment-resource-q2-2024-homeownership-program-index-report.

For a complete list of homebuyer assistance programs by state, visit https://downpaymentresource.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HPI-state-by-state-data.Q22024.pdf.

Methodology

Published quarterly, DPR's HPI surveys the funding status, eligibility rules and benefits of U.S. homebuyer assistance programs administered by state and local housing finance agencies, municipalities, nonprofits and other housing organizations. DPR communicates with over 1,300 program providers throughout the year to track and update the country's wide range of homeownership programs, including down payment and closing cost programs, Mortgage Credit Certificates (MCCs) and affordable first mortgages, in the DOWN PAYMENT RESOURCE® database.

About Down Payment Resource:

Down Payment Resource (DPR) is the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions. With a database that tracks more than 2,400 programs and toolsets for mortgage lenders, multiple listing services (MLSs) and API users, DPR helps housing professionals connect homebuyers with the assistance they need. DPR frequently lends its expertise to nonprofits, housing finance agencies, policymakers, government-sponsored enterprises and trade organizations seeking to improve housing affordability. Its technology is used by seven of the top 25 mortgage lenders, the three largest real estate listing websites and 600,000 real estate agents. For more information, visit https://downpaymentresource.com/.

X: @DwnPmtResource #downpaymentassistance #affordabilitycrisis #housingaffordability #mortgage #housingequity #downpayment

Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions, today released its Q2 2024 Homeownership Program Index (HPI) report. The Q2 report saw the national homebuyer assistance programs increase by 42 to 2,415 - the highest count on record. Much of this quarter's increase in program count was due to local agencies pulling more heavily from federal funding to support homebuyer assistance.

Related link: https://www.downpaymentresource.com/

Luvme Hair Celebrates Success with Atlanta Pop-Up Shop

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Luvme Hair, a leading brand in the human hair wigs industry, successfully hosted its first pop-up shop in Atlanta, Georgia from July 12th to 14th, building on the success of previous events in New York City and Houston. The event celebrated beauty, innovation, and community. Attendees had the chance to discover Luvme hair's best-selling collections and products and indulge in personalized, exclusive experiences.

The pop-up shop showcased Luvme Hair's commitment to bringing quality and style to every customer. Wig lovers had the opportunity to explore Luvme Hair's signature offerings, including 7x6 PartingMax Glueless Wigs, 13x5 Ready To Go Frontal Wigs, PreMax Wigs, 360/Full Lace Wigs, Wig Renewal System, and more, all renowned for their quality and styles. Guests were able to get their favorite wig products at unbeatable prices.

The event was further enhanced by professional hairstylists onsite, offering complimentary 1-on-1 styling sessions to customers who purchased wigs in the pop-up shop. This personalized service allowed attendees to discover new looks and techniques under expert guidance, reinforcing Luvme Hair's dedication to customer care and satisfaction. As a token of appreciation, over 5,000 complimentary gifts were distributed throughout the event.

Reflecting on the success of the event, Helena, the founder of Luvme Hair, expressed her gratitude to the loyal supporters and new customers who attended: "Hosting our first pop-up shop in Atlanta was an incredible milestone for Luvme Hair. We're thrilled to have shared our best-selling collections and personalized experiences with our customers, reinforcing our dedication to quality and style. Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating the power of self-expression."

For those who missed the event, Luvme Hair invites customers to explore their extensive range of products online at https://shop.luvmehair.com/ and stay tuned for future pop-up events!

About Luvme Hair:

Luvme Hair is a reputable brand in the hair industry, known for its high-quality human hair wigs, glueless wigs, headband wig, lace front wigs, PreMax Wigs, Bob Wigs, Bundles With Closure and clip in hair extensions that allow individuals to effortlessly switch up their looks. With a focus on innovation, creativity, quality, and customer satisfaction, Luvme Hair has garnered a loyal customer base globally, with over 2 million satisfied customers all over the world. For more information about Luvme Hair and its products, please visit their official website at https://shop.luvmehair.com/.

Luvme Hair, a leading brand in the human hair wigs industry, successfully hosted its first pop-up shop in Atlanta, Georgia from July 12th to 14th, building on the success of previous events in New York City and Houston. The event celebrated beauty, innovation, and community.

Related link: https://shop.luvmehair.com/

Alliance Group’s Carlos Vazquez Elected to The University of Georgia’s Latino Alumni Council

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Alliance Group is proud to announce that Carlos Vazquez, its esteemed Marketing Coordinator, has been elected to the University of Georgia's Latino Alumni Council. Carlos will serve a two-year term, spanning July 2024 to July 2026.

The University of Georgia Alumni Association extended their heartfelt congratulations to Carlos, recognizing his outstanding commitment to the university and his readiness to serve as an ambassador for the UGA community. His selection to this prestigious council underscores his dedication to fostering connections among UGA alumni and advancing the university's mission.

"Being elected to the University of Georgia's Latino Alumni Council is a profound honor for me," said Carlos Vazquez. "The personal and professional success I've achieved are deeply rooted in the connections I made and the foundation I built in Athens, Georgia. I'm excited to give back and support initiatives that enrich the experience for our Latino students and alumni."

Carlos joins a distinguished group of individuals serving on one of UGA's four esteemed Affinity Councils, which include the Black Alumni Leadership Council, the Latino Alumni Council, the Women of UGA, and the Young Alumni Leadership Council. These councils play a crucial role in building a vibrant community among specific alumni populations, promoting engagement and support for the university.

In his new role, Carlos will have the opportunity to contribute his talents, insights, and passion to initiatives that enrich the UGA experience for all Latino alumni. As a proud representative of the University of Georgia, he will embody the Bulldog spirit, furthering the mission and values of UGA through his dedicated service.

Alliance Group congratulates Carlos Vazquez on this achievement and looks forward to the positive impact he will undoubtedly make on the Georgia Latino Alumni Council and the broader UGA community.

About Alliance Group:

As "The Living Benefits IMO," Alliance Group provides independent agents and agencies across the United States with superior marketing and training solutions. Since 1998, Alliance Group has been helping its partners spread awareness about Living Benefits life insurance, while also helping them solve their clients' puzzles regarding tax-free retirement, mortgage protection, small business planning, estate planning needs, and more.

For more information, please visit https://www.alliancegrouplife.com/.

Alliance Group is proud to announce that Carlos Vazquez, its esteemed Marketing Coordinator, has been elected to the University of Georgia's Latino Alumni Council. Carlos will serve a two-year term, spanning July 2024 to July 2026. The University of Georgia Alumni Association extended their heartfelt congratulations to Carlos.

Related link: https://www.AllianceGroupLife.com/

The Legacy of Civil Rights Leader Rev. Fred Taylor to be Honored with a March, Tribute and Celebration of Life – Public Invited to Attend

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) National, Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda, AD King Foundation, Rosa Parks Consortium, and other organizations in the civil rights community will convene for a two-day celebration of the life of Rev. Frederick Douglass Taylor, a revered leader in the civil rights movement and former lieutenant to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Rosa Parks.

Rev. Timothy McDonald III and Rev. Dr. T. DeWitt Smith, Jr. will preside, with remarks from Ambassador Andrew Young. The public is encouraged to attend.

CONTACT: MEDIA please RSVP to Edrea Davis via edmedia@dogonvillage.com or text 818.613.9521. Local leaders are available to talk about the tribute and Rev. Taylor's life of service.

:: THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024

Lying in Repose:

Time: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Location: Ebenezer Horizon Sanctuary, 101 Jackson St, Atlanta, GA 30312

March Assembly:

Time: 5:00 PM

Starting Location: SCLC Headquarters, 320 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30303

Route: The celebration will commence with a march from SCLC National Headquarters to Ebenezer Horizon Church. Participants will assemble at 5:00 PM at SCLC, proceed to The King Center, pausing in front of Martin and Coretta Scott King's grave site, and then continue to Ebenezer Horizon Sanctuary.

Memorial Service:

Time: 7:00 PM

Location: Ebenezer Horizon Sanctuary, 101 Jackson St, Atlanta, GA 30312

Presiding: Rev. Timothy McDonald III, Senior Pastor of First Iconium Baptist Church and former SCLC staffer

Remarks by: Ambassador Andrew Young

:: FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2024

Public Viewing:

Time: 10:00 AM

Location: West Hunter Street Baptist Church, 1040 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd SW, Atlanta, GA 30310

Celebration of Life Service:

Time: 12:00 PM

Location: West Hunter Street Baptist Church, 1040 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd SW, Atlanta, GA 30310

Presiding: Rev. Dr. T. DeWitt Smith, Jr.

ABOUT REV. FRED D. TAYLOR:

Rev. Fred D. Taylor was born on October 23, 1942, in Autauga County, Alabama, and spent his early years on a plantation. At age thirteen, he met Dr. Ralph David Abernathy and became actively involved in the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Rev. Taylor graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1961, earned his undergraduate degree at Alabama State College, and received his Master of Divinity from the Morehouse School of Religion at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia.

In 1969, he joined the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) and served in various roles over four decades, working closely with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Coretta Scott King, Dr. Joseph Lowery, and Rev. James Orange, among others. Even after retiring from the SCLC in 2007, Rev. Taylor remained a vocal advocate during the Black Lives Matter Movement, helped get out the vote (GOTV) in Georgia, and volunteered with Georgia Stand Up and Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda. Rev. Taylor died June 21, 2024 at the age of 81-years-old.

Note: In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honor of Rev. Taylor to:

A.D. King Memorial Fund

Memo: Rev. Fred Taylor Memorial Fund

2505 Creel Road, Suite A, Atlanta, GA 30349

About Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda:

Learn more about the Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda at: http://thepeoplesagenda.org/

The Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) National, Georgia Coalition for the People's Agenda, AD King Foundation, Rosa Parks Consortium, and other organizations in the civil rights community will convene for a two-day celebration of the life of Rev. Frederick Douglass Taylor, a revered leader in the civil rights movement and former lieutenant to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Rosa Parks.

Related link: https://www.thepeoplesagenda.org/

Eighteen homebuyer assistance programs offering up to $117,000 are available to help people with disabilities and family caregivers purchase or modify a home

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- In celebration of Disability Pride Month in July, Down Payment Resource (DPR) is highlighting 18 U.S. homebuyer assistance programs that are specifically designed to support people with disabilities and their family caregivers on their journey toward homeownership. While people with disabilities may be eligible for any of the 2,300-plus U.S. homebuyer assistance programs in DPR's database, 18 are specifically developed to promote accessibility and inclusivity for aspiring homeowners with disabilities.

People with disabilities represent about 15% of the world's population, spanning all ages, races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religions and socio-economic backgrounds. Disability Pride Month originated in the U.S. to commemorate the passing of the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in July 1990. The observance seeks to change the way people think about and define disability, to promote the idea that being disabled is a natural part of human diversity and raise awareness of the challenges that people with disabilities face every day.

Program funds can be used for a variety of purposes such as down payments or closing costs. Many of the programs can be combined with other homebuyer assistance programs, providing individuals with disabilities additional financial support and resources.

An analysis of the 18 programs showcases the range of assistance available to promote homeownership for people with disabilities:

* Financial assistance range: The programs offer homebuyer assistance ranging from $2,000 to $117,000.

* Availability: The programs are offered regionally in eight states and the District of Columbia. A financial assistance program is offered nationally by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

* Accessibility modifications: Funding from two programs can be utilized to support accessibility modifications, ensuring homes are tailored to the unique needs of individuals with disabilities.

* Program types: By type, the homeownership assistance programs available are three affordable first mortgages, 12 second mortgage programs, two grant programs and one combined assistance program.

* Homebuyer status: Four assistance programs are open to repeat buyers and four first-time buyer programs offer an exemption for Veterans so they can apply regardless of previous homeownership.

"We believe all Americans should have access to safe, affordable housing and these targeted programs are making homeownership possible for disabled buyers who otherwise thought they couldn't afford to buy, or renovate, their home," said DPR Founder and CEO Rob Chrane. "These programs can help buyers qualify for a mortgage and make changes to the home, like installing handrails, a chair lift or ramps, to make it easier for them to live there."

About Down Payment Resource:

Down Payment Resource (DPR) is the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions. With a database that tracks more than 2,300 programs and toolsets for mortgage lenders, multiple listing services (MLSs) and API users, DPR helps housing professionals connect homebuyers with the assistance they need. DPR frequently lends its expertise to nonprofits, housing finance agencies, policymakers, government-sponsored enterprises and trade organizations seeking to improve housing affordability. Its technology is used by five of the top 10 retail mortgage lenders and MLSs, three of the four largest real estate listing websites and 600,000 real estate agents. For more information, visit https://downpaymentresource.com/.

X/Twitter: @DwnPmtResource #downpaymentassistance #DisabilityPride

In celebration of Disability Pride Month in July, Down Payment Resource (DPR) is highlighting 18 U.S. homebuyer assistance programs that are specifically designed to support people with disabilities and their family caregivers on their journey toward homeownership. While people with disabilities may be eligible for any of the 2,300-plus U.S. homebuyer assistance programs in DPR's database, 18 are specifically developed to promote accessibility and inclusivity for aspiring homeowners with disabilities.

Related link: https://www.downpaymentresource.com/

Down Payment Resource expands team to keep pace with a rising number of DPA programs and increasing demand

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry's leading technology for connecting homebuyers with homebuyer assistance programs, today announced the addition of three new team members to support growing demand for down payment assistance (DPA) programs.

"We've been in this business since 2008 and have never seen more interest in - and frankly more need for - DPA from both homebuyers and lenders. In response, DPA administrators are growing the number of DPA programs available and expanding the inventory box with programs that support funding for purchases of manufactured homes and multi-family properties," said DPR Founder and CEO Rob Chrane.

"Accordingly, demand for DPR's lender suite, which supports DPA origination from lead generation to processing and underwriting to secondary sales, has grown. Combined with our recent integration with the ICE Encompass® loan origination system, DPR has a very bright future, and we're happy our team is growing to meet market needs."

DPR's three hires are:

:: Veronica Chapa, sales engineer

As sales engineer, Veronica Chapa will accelerate customer acquisition, revenue growth and market penetration at Down Payment Resource. Chapa has an extensive mortgage industry background, having served in various roles at mortgage lenders and mortgage technology companies, including Optimal Blue and Ellie Mae (now ICE Mortgage Technology).

:: Lorrie Johnson, customer success specialist

As a customer success specialist, Lorrie Johnson works on the frontlines with our lender and real estate clients to coordinate customer success initiatives including onboarding, adoption and retention efforts. Johnson has an extensive background in real estate, customer service and sales.

:: Lisa Rhodes, DPA program specialist

As a program specialist, Lisa Rhodes will support collecting, monitoring and managing detailed eligibility data and program requirements for more than 2,300 DPA programs from 1,200 providers. By maintaining regular contact with program providers, Rhodes will ensure the integrity of DPR's DPA Directory, the only tool to track every DPA program in the U.S. Before joining DPR, Rhodes served in various positions, including as HFA program administrator, for 17 years at U.S. Bank.

About Down Payment Resource:

Down Payment Resource (DPR) is the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions. With a database that tracks more than 2,200 programs and toolsets for mortgage lenders, multiple listing services (MLSs) and API users, DPR helps housing professionals connect homebuyers with the assistance they need. DPR frequently lends its expertise to nonprofits, housing finance agencies, policymakers, government-sponsored enterprises and trade organizations seeking to improve housing affordability. Its technology is used by five of the top 10 retail mortgage lenders and MLSs, three of the four largest real estate listing websites and 600,000 real estate agents.

For more information, visit https://downpaymentresource.com/.

Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry's leading technology for connecting homebuyers with homebuyer assistance programs, today announced the addition of three new team members to support growing demand

Related link: https://www.downpaymentresource.com/

Depth promotes Johnna Szegda to vice president role

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Depth, a leading provider of consultative B2B marketing, public relations and reputation management services for technology companies within the residential mortgage finance, financial technology (fintech) and regulatory technology (regtech) industries, announced the promotion of Johnna Szegda to vice president.

"Since joining Depth in 2018, Johnna has made a durable impression that contours our client service approach," said firm Founder and President Kerri Milam. "As client services director since 2021, Johnna has delivered uncontested value to brands that rely on our firm to help build reputation and to guide key aspects of their marketing communication initiatives.

"A high-profile client recently went out of her way to cite Johnna's 'intellect and judgment' as a significant element of its marketing efforts, which speaks volumes as to why we knew the time was right for this well-earned promotion. Johnna's leadership and strategic instincts are powerful elements of the Depth mission to deliver unparalleled outcomes for its treasured clients and partners in the industries we serve," Milam said.

Szegda earned her bachelor's degree in English from Georgia State University and, prior to joining Depth, held roles in community relations where strategic communications were a core skill.

"Since 2006, Depth has demonstrated its commitment to the U.S. mortgage industry and its fintech innovators, where we have established a reputation for our consultative service delivery model prioritizing immediate and long-range strategy, project management and thought-provoking content that drives action," said Milam. "Johnna Szegda is the model practitioner for how we execute our client commitments."

Depth's business model was conceived to fill a knowledge and service gap for growth-focused technology innovators driving the modernization and digitization of housing finance. Combining unrivaled strategic insights with top-shelf content development and native digital marketing acumen, Depth has a track record of success fueling adoption solutions and services across the mortgage lifecycle, from customer relationship management (CRM), appraisal and loan origination technology to innovations in mortgage servicing, quality control (QC) and capital markets.

Learn more about our team: https://depthpr.com/team/

About Depth:

Depth is a leading independent provider of consultative B2B marketing, public relations and reputation management services for the mortgage lending and residential finance industries. Since 2006, the firm has represented a clientele of established and emerging brands serving mortgage lenders, mortgage servicers, real estate professionals and appraisers. Depth is committed to serving the cause of digital innovation and to practicing the pay-it-forward principle alongside The Golden Rule. A woman-owned business, Depth is a member and supporter of the Mortgage Bankers Association, Housing Finance Strategies and The Mortgage Collaborative.

Learn more at: https://depthpr.com/

Depth, a leading provider of consultative B2B marketing, public relations and reputation management services for technology companies within the residential mortgage finance, financial technology (fintech) and regulatory technology (regtech) industries, announced the promotion of Johnna Szegda to vice president.

Related link: https://www.DepthPR.com/

Down Payment Resource integration with ICE Mortgage Technology embeds down payment assistance program support into core mortgage origination software

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry's leading technology for connecting homebuyers with homebuyer assistance programs, today announced a new integration using the latest API framework from Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) for mortgage technology. Available via the Encompass Partner Connect™ API Platform, the integration makes it easier for lenders to support homebuyers with the nation's 2,300-plus down payment assistance (DPA) programs.

DPR's integration with Encompass embeds support for DPA programs directly into core loan production systems, arming lending staff with the information they need to confidently deliver DPA. Borrowers are automatically matched with eligible company approved DPA programs based on declarations and loan application data. LOs are presented with program information, such as benefit amounts and eligibility requirements, so they can advise borrowers on their DPA options and guide them through program-specific processes. DPA program selection is automatically communicated downstream to underwriters by translating program requirements into importable loan conditions, making them easier to manage.

Using DPA can lower the loan amount for a more favorable debt-to-income ratio or provide cash to meet the necessary cash-to-close, helping more low-to-moderate income (LMI) borrowers qualify for a mortgage. A study conducted by Down Payment Resource and the Urban Institute that examined the impact DPA could have had on buyers in the top 10 United States metropolitan statistical areas found that almost half (43.6%) of originated purchase mortgages were eligible for DPA. As far as loan types, 79.8% of FHA loans and 81.9% of USDA loans could have been eligible for DPA.

Moreover, the study found that DPA could have potentially salvaged 30.7% of denied applicants - a gap that affects a significant portion of LMI and minority applicants. Increasing pull-through not only benefits homebuyers, it also offers lenders a much-needed opportunity to grow loan volume in a tight market.

"DPA programs are crucial for promoting homeownership accessibility, particularly for first-time homebuyers, LMI homebuyers and homebuyers of color. Unfortunately, most loan officers don't pursue DPA on behalf of their clients because they don't know about existing programs or are hesitant to try something unfamiliar," said Rob Chrane, founder and CEO of Down Payment Resource. "Embedding Down Payment Resource's lender solutions in Encompass helps LOs overcome those apprehensions. Folding DPA functionality in the core origination gives LOs confidence that they can effectively originate DPA and make borrowers happy. We're giving lending staff everything they need to know the moment a loan needs to be created."

DPR maintains a comprehensive, up-to-date database of every DPA program in the nation. According to DPR's Q1 2024 HPI report, there are 2,373 homebuyer assistance programs available nationwide. All 3,143 U.S. counties have at least one DPA program, more than 2,000 counties have 10 or more programs, and the average DPA benefit is $17,000.

"We hope that by making mortgage staff 'instant experts' on DPA, more homebuyers can benefit from DPA," concluded Chrane.

For more information, visit the Down Payment Resource profile on the Marketplace™ by ICE Mortgage Technology® - https://marketplace.icemortgagetechnology.com/s/marketplaceprofileversion/aDe6g000000LQUfCAO/1566

Encompass Partner Connect enables the integration of key third-party products and services with ICE mortgage technology solutions. ICE does not own, control, nor endorse any specific industry participant or the product/service provided. Loan originators and servicers are responsible for vetting, selecting, and contracting with the providers of their choosing.

About Down Payment Resource:

Down Payment Resource (DPR) is the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions. With a database that tracks more than 2,200 programs and toolsets for mortgage lenders, multiple listing services and API users, DPR helps housing professionals connect homebuyers with the assistance they need. DPR frequently lends its expertise to nonprofits, housing finance agencies, policymakers, government-sponsored enterprises and trade organizations seeking to improve housing affordability. Its technology is used by five of the top 10 retail mortgage lenders, three of the four largest real estate listing websites and 600,000 real estate agents.

For more information, visit https://downpaymentresource.com/.

Twitter: @DwnPmtResource #downpaymentassistance @ICEMortgageTech

Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry's leading technology for connecting homebuyers with homebuyer assistance programs, today announced a new integration using the latest API framework from Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) for mortgage technology. Available via the Encompass Partner Connect™ API Platform, the integration makes it easier for lenders to support homebuyers with the nation's 2,300-plus down payment assistance (DPA) programs.

Related link: https://www.downpaymentresource.com/

WellVisor Partners with FlexCare Digital Health to Expand Services for Clients

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- WellVisor, a nationwide leader in Integrated Health & Wellbeing, announced today its partnership with FlexCare, LLC, to provide employers and benefit plans the most comprehensive, integrated health and wellness solution available. This partnership allows WellVisor's employers and their members to benefit from FlexCare's comprehensive solution. WellVisor and FlexCare will start their partnership immediately to further simplify the delivery of employee benefit tools for improving lives and lowering costs.

"WellVisor is excited to welcome FlexCare to our integrated suite as we continue to simplify the employee benefits experience with all the best health and wellbeing solutions available in one place," said WellVisor Co-founder and CEO, Patrick Cooper.

Approximately 85% of employees are confused about their employee benefits (*note 1), and 62% of employees lose 32 days per year navigating workplace apps (*note 2). The growing trend of disconnected benefits not only increases costs and lowers engagement, it also further complicates the delivery and use of solutions that improve lives and lower healthcare costs for everyone. With WellVisor and FlexCare seamlessly working together in the WellVisor solution, employees and their family members now have one less app to learn to fully take advantage of their employee benefits.

"FlexCare is excited to partner with WellVisor to expand our opportunities in the employer market. We view this as a tremendous opportunity to simplify the delivery of our valuable benefit to employers and their employees," said FlexCare Founder & CEO Lee Shoemake.

"While FlexCare already has one of the highest utilization rates among virtual care providers, we are always looking for new ways to simplify delivery and increase utilization. Through this partnership and WellVisor's ability to educate members on the benefits and services available to them, we predict members will be even more aware of their FlexCare options and more likely to take advantage of our quicker, cost-saving, virtual care services."

About WellVisor:

WellVisor is the nation's only fully integrated health and wellbeing solution for employers, benefit plans, and health systems. Our single solution approach and unique AI personalized one-step-at-a-time guidance bring the best possible care to employees and their family members.

Website: https://www.wellvisor.com/

About FlexCare:

FlexCare, LLC is a leading digital health provider of online and on-demand healthcare delivery services to private and public employers, associations, brokers, school systems and more. By using digital health services instead of more expensive urgent care and ER visits, FlexCare's digital health services cuts unnecessary costs and keeps members smiling (instead of waiting).

In addition to telemedicine and the WellVisor health and wellbeing tools, FlexCare also provides Virtual Primary Care, Dermatology, TeleDentistry, Behavioral Health and Telespine benefits.

Using their proprietary online administrative system, FlexCare seamlessly provides multiple employee benefits either bundled or unbundled which makes for ease of administration for employers.

Resource Links:

Website: https://flexcare.com/

Dashboard: https://www.myflexcare.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlexCarePlus

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flexcare-telemedicine/?viewAsMember=true

Facebook: https://facebook.com/FlexCarePlus

Instagram: https://instagram.com/FlexCarePlus

Notes / Sources:

*1 https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbeshumanresourcescouncil/2023/04/26/personalization-is-the-future-of-employee-benefits/?sh=1da78f475335

*2 https://www.ringcentral.com/whyringcentral/company/pressreleases/pressreleases-2018/report_app_overload_is_creating_chaos_at_work_and_costing_businesses_billions.html

WellVisor, a nationwide leader in Integrated Health & Wellbeing, announced today its partnership with FlexCare, LLC, to provide employers and benefit plans the most comprehensive, integrated health and wellness solution available. This partnership allows WellVisor's employers and their members to benefit from FlexCare's comprehensive solution. WellVisor and FlexCare will start their partnership immediately to further simplify the delivery of employee benefit tools for improving lives and lowering costs.

Related link: http://flexcare.com/

Down Payment Resource brings its award-winning homebuyer assistance software to The Mortgage Collaborative as a preferred partner

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry's leading technology for connecting homebuyers with homebuyer assistance programs, today announced that it has joined The Mortgage Collaborative (TMC), the nation's largest independent cooperative network serving the mortgage industry. As a member of TMC's Preferred Partner Network, DPR will provide its software, which provides operational support for utilizing its database of more than 2,300 down payment assistance (DPA) programs, at a discounted rate to TMC members.

"Partnering with TMC is strategically aligned with our efforts to raise awareness that DPR's suite of lender tools supports DPA origination from product management and lead generation to processing and underwriting," said DPR Founder and CEO Rob Chrane. "Borrower demand for affordability solutions is at a fever pitch, and our software makes it easy for lenders to operationally support DPA programs and meet the financing needs of the communities they serve."

DPR is the only organization to track the eligibility and benefits information of every DPA program in the country. DPR offers a united suite of four key solutions for lenders:

* DPA Directory - a comprehensive and searchable directory of homeownership programs that serves as a central information hub, reducing the need for manual research and enabling competitive positioning with optimal programs.

* Loan Officer Portal - an automated tool that matches borrowers with approved homeownership programs, streamlining the matching process, minimizing errors and enhancing loan approval rates.

* Underwriter Portal - provides underwriters with direct access to updated program details, ensuring adherence to approved DPAs and enhancing operational efficiency.

* Consumer Portal - designed to engage prospective homebuyers with a user-friendly, mobile-optimized experience and generate leads for lenders.

Using DPA can lower the loan amount for a more favorable debt-to-income ratio or provide cash to meet the necessary cash-to-close requirements, helping more low-to-moderate income (LMI) borrowers qualify for a mortgage. A study conducted by DPR and the Urban Institute that examined the impact DPA could have had on buyers in the top 10 United States metropolitan statistical areas found that almost half (43.6%) of originated purchase mortgages were eligible for DPA. As far as loan types, 79.8% of FHA loans and 81.9% of USDA loans could have been eligible for DPA.

Founded in 2013, TMC empowers mortgage lenders across the country with networking and professional development opportunities, and by sharing best practices and technologies that drive market growth, efficiency and profitability.

"We've been long-time fans of DPR and their advocacy for mortgage lenders using DPA to help qualify more people so they can achieve homeownership and start building generational wealth. Their mission to expand affordable homeownership, especially with low-income and minority homeowners, aligns well with our mission of helping lenders expand their business in underserved communities and meet CRA lending guidelines," said TMC President and CEO Melissa Langdale. "We're pleased to bring the DPA experts into our fold to help encourage and educate lenders who may be on the fence or not understand the impact DPA could have on their business."

About Down Payment Resource:

Down Payment Resource (DPR) is the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions. With a database that tracks more than 2,300 programs and toolsets for mortgage lenders, multiple listing services (MLSs) and API users, DPR helps housing professionals connect homebuyers with the assistance they need. DPR frequently lends its expertise to nonprofits, housing finance agencies, policymakers, government-sponsored enterprises and trade organizations seeking to improve housing affordability. Its technology is used by five of the top 10 retail mortgage lenders and MLSs, three of the four largest real estate listing websites and 600,000 real estate agents. For more information, visit https://downpaymentresource.com/.

About The Mortgage Collaborative:

The Mortgage Collaborative was founded in 2013 by four notable industry leaders and is the nation's largest independent mortgage cooperative network. TMC is singularly focused on creating an environment of collaboration and innovation for small to midsize mortgage lenders across the country to reduce cost, increase profitability, and better serve the dynamic and changing consumer base in America. For more information, visit https://www.mortgagecollaborative.com.

X/Twitter: @DwnPmtResource @MtgCoop #downpaymentassistance

Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry's leading technology for connecting homebuyers with homebuyer assistance programs, today announced that it has joined The Mortgage Collaborative (TMC), the nation's largest independent cooperative network serving the mortgage industry. As a member of TMC's Preferred Partner Network, DPR will provide its software, which provides operational support for utilizing its database of more than 2,300 down payment assistance (DPA) programs, at a discounted rate to TMC members.

Related link: https://www.downpaymentresource.com/

Down Payment Resource reports highest annual down payment assistance program count growth on record

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions, today released its Q1 2024 Homeownership Program Index (HPI) report. In a quarter where year-over-year (YoY) home prices jumped 6%, the YoY national down payment assistance count increased by 204, the largest annual jump since DPR began reporting on this data in Q3 2020. There are now 2,373 homebuyer assistance programs available nationwide, with at least one program in every U.S. county and 10 or more programs available in 2,000 counties.

"A lot of down payment assistance (DPA) goes untapped simply because buyers, lenders and agents are unaware it exists or have misconceptions about how it works and who can qualify. In reality, most DPA program providers calibrate eligibility requirements to area median income and local median housing prices, enabling them to support homeownership in both low and very high cost of living markets," said Rob Chrane, founder and CEO of DPR.

Key HPI Report Findings

An examination of the existing 2,373 homebuyer assistance programs on April 3, 2024, resulted in the following key findings:

* The national homebuyer assistance program count saw a quarterly increase of 79. This represents a 3% increase in program count over the previous quarter.

* Below Market Rate (BMR)/resale programs are up 7% quarterly and 108% annually and now total 77. Local jurisdictions set sale prices on BMR/resale eligible homes and may offer additional financial assistance to make them more accessible and affordable to low- and moderate-income individuals and families.

* 497 DPA programs are available through nonprofits, up 15% from the previous quarter. 450 programs are offered through state Housing Finance Agencies, unchanged from the previous quarter.

* 947 programs are available through municipalities, up 5% from the previous quarter. There has been steady growth in programs from municipalities, especially states with high home prices like California, where many homebuyers struggle with affordability.

A more detailed analysis of the Q1 2024 HPI findings, including infographics and examples of the programs described in this release, can be found on DPR's website at https://downpaymentresource.com/professional-resource/the-down-payment-resource-q1-2024-homeownership-program-index-report/.

For a complete list of homebuyer assistance programs by state, visit https://downpaymentresource.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/HPI-state-by-state-data.Q12024.pdf.

Methodology

Published quarterly, DPR's HPI surveys the funding status, eligibility rules and benefits of U.S. homebuyer assistance programs administered by state and local housing finance agencies, municipalities, nonprofits and other housing organizations. DPR communicates with over 1,300 program providers throughout the year to track and update the country's wide range of homeownership programs, including down payment and closing cost programs, Mortgage Credit Certificates (MCCs) and affordable first mortgages, in the DOWN PAYMENT RESOURCE(r) database.

About Down Payment Resource:

Down Payment Resource (DPR) is the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions. With a database that tracks more than 2,300 programs and toolsets for mortgage lenders, multiple listing services (MLSs) and API users, DPR helps housing professionals connect homebuyers with the assistance they need. DPR frequently lends its expertise to nonprofits, housing finance agencies, policymakers, government-sponsored enterprises and trade organizations seeking to improve housing affordability. Its technology is used by five of the top 10 retail mortgage lenders and MLSs, three of the four largest real estate listing websites and 600,000 real estate agents. For more information, visit https://downpaymentresource.com/.

Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions, today released its Q1 2024 Homeownership Program Index (HPI) report. In a quarter where year-over-year (YoY) home prices jumped 6%, the YoY national down payment assistance count increased by 204, the largest annual jump since DPR began reporting on this data in Q3 2020.

Related link: https://www.downpaymentresource.com/

Alliance Group Promotes Travis Grenier to Vice President of Marketing

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Alliance Group, a leader in the life insurance and annuity sectors, is thrilled to announce the promotion of Travis Grenier to Vice President of Marketing. Grenier, a ten-year veteran at Alliance Group, has been instrumental in developing the company's internal video marketing production studio and program, setting a new standard in the independent marketing space within the life insurance and annuity industries.

Under Grenier's leadership, Alliance Group's video marketing initiatives have not only significantly enhanced the company's brand visibility but have also played a pivotal role in educating and engaging their target audience in innovative and impactful ways. His efforts have solidified the company's reputation as a forward-thinking and customer-centric organization.

Lee Duncan, CEO of Alliance Group, expressed his enthusiasm about Grenier's promotion, stating, "Travis has been a key player in our success story, bringing unparalleled creativity and dedication to our marketing strategies. His vision for our video marketing has truly set us apart in the industry. We are incredibly proud of his achievements and are excited to see him take on this new role."

Samuel Howe, Chief Marketing Officer at Alliance Group, also praised Grenier's contribution and leadership. "Travis's work ethic, combined with his innovative approach to video marketing, has been nothing short of transformative for our company. He is more than deserving of this promotion, and I am confident that he will continue to drive our marketing efforts to new heights."

Grenier's promotion to Vice President of Marketing is effective immediately. In his new role, he will work with Howe to oversee the company's marketing program, which focuses on developing marketing tools for use by Alliance Group's more than 5,000 contracted independent agents in more than 65 independent agencies across the U.S.

"I am deeply honored and excited for the opportunity to continue contributing to Alliance Group's success," said Grenier. "It's been an amazing career here so far and I can't wait to see what kind of impact we can make in the next ten years."

About Alliance Group:

As "The Living Benefits IMO," Alliance Group provides independent agents and agencies across the United States with superior marketing and training solutions. Since 1998, Alliance Group has been helping its partners spread awareness about Living Benefits life insurance, while also helping them solve their clients' puzzles regarding tax-free retirement, mortgage protection, small business planning, estate planning needs, and more.

For more information, please visit https://www.alliancegrouplife.com/

Alliance Group, a leader in the life insurance and annuity sectors, is thrilled to announce the promotion of Travis Grenier to Vice President of Marketing. Grenier, a ten-year veteran at Alliance Group, has been instrumental in developing the company's internal video marketing production studio and program, setting a new standard in the independent marketing space within the life insurance and annuity industries.

Related link: https://www.AllianceGroupLife.com/

Carlos Vazquez Enters New Role as Marketing Coordinator at Alliance Group

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Alliance Group, a leading IMO in the life insurance and annuity sectors, is pleased to announce Carlos Vazquez's transition to a full-time role as Marketing Coordinator within the company's esteemed marketing team. After an impactful 15 months serving as a Special Assistant to the CEO, Vazquez will now lend his talents to the coordination, prioritization, and execution of daily tasks for the marketing team, further enhancing the support and resources available to Alliance Group's independent agents, agencies, and partners.

The Alliance Group marketing team is renowned for its world-class capabilities, providing unparalleled marketing tools in the independent space. From customized websites and award-winning in-house marketing videos that educate clients and prospects on various concepts and products, to engaging social media content, print marketing, and event planning, the team is at the forefront of empowering the company's partners with innovative marketing solutions.

Lee Duncan, CEO of Alliance Group, expressed his confidence in Vazquez's new role, stating, "Carlos has shown remarkable intelligence, skillset, and initiative in his time with us. His contributions have been invaluable, and I am proud to see him take on this new challenge. I have every confidence that his talents will greatly benefit our marketing team and, in turn, our agents and partners."

Samuel Howe, Chief Marketing Officer at Alliance Group, also shared his enthusiasm for Vazquez's transition. "Carlos's ability to tackle complex tasks and his innovative approach to problem-solving have already made him an asset to our team. As we continue to evolve and enhance our marketing efforts, I am excited to see the impact of his skills and dedication. His understanding of our mission and his alignment with our values make him the perfect fit for this role."

In his new position, Vazquez will play a pivotal role in ensuring the marketing team's initiatives are executed efficiently and effectively, contributing to the overall success and growth of Alliance Group and its partners.

"I am thrilled to join the marketing team and to have the opportunity to contribute to our collective goals in a new capacity," said Vazquez. "The chance to work closely with such a talented group of professionals and to support our agents and partners with top-tier marketing tools is incredibly exciting. I look forward to the challenges and successes that lie ahead."

About Alliance Group:

As "The Living Benefits IMO," Alliance Group provides independent agents and agencies across the United States with superior marketing and training solutions. Since 1998, Alliance Group has been helping its partners spread awareness about Living Benefits life insurance, while also helping them solve their clients' puzzles regarding tax-free retirement, mortgage protection, small business planning, estate planning needs, and more.

For more information, please visit https://www.alliancegrouplife.com/

Alliance Group, a leading IMO in the life insurance and annuity sectors, is pleased to announce Carlos Vazquez's transition to a full-time role as Marketing Coordinator within the company's esteemed marketing team. After an impactful 15 months serving as a Special Assistant to the CEO, Vazquez will now lend his talents to the coordination, prioritization, and execution of daily tasks for the marketing team, further enhancing the support and resources available to Alliance Group's independent agents, agencies, and partners.

Related link: https://www.AllianceGroupLife.com/

Chrissy Disco Promoted to Alliance Group VP of Agent Experience

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Alliance Group, a leading national IMO in the life insurance industry, recently announced the promotion of Chrissy Disco to Vice President of Agent Experience. Having dedicated nine years to the company, Disco has been a cornerstone in establishing a cohesive style and brand identity for Alliance Group in her previous role as Creative Director. Her significant contributions have been pivotal in crafting the exceptional agent experience that has become synonymous with the Alliance Group name.

Disco's influence extends deeply into the planning and execution of Alliance Group's signature onsite events, most notably the Alliance Group Leaders Conference. This annual gathering of top Alliance Group producers in various exotic locales has flourished under her guidance. Her meticulous attention to detail in scouting locations, liaising with hotel and resort staff, managing budgets, coordinating qualifier and guest registration and travel arrangements, and ensuring seamless event execution has been instrumental in providing consistently world-class experiences for Alliance Group agents and partners.

In her new role as VP of Agent Experience, Disco will continue to shape the "look and feel" of Alliance Group, further enhancing the company's branding and agent engagement strategies. Her leadership will also extend to the continued curation and design of unique experiences that reward the success of Alliance Group agents and partners.

Lee Duncan, CEO of Alliance Group, praised Disco's contributions and her new role, stating, "Chrissy has been a driving force behind the unparalleled agent experience that sets Alliance Group apart in the independent marketing organization (IMO) space. Her vision and dedication over the past nine years have played a crucial role in our growth and success. This promotion is not only well-earned but also a reflection of her impact on our company. I am eager to see how she continues to innovate and elevate the experiences of our agents and partners in her new role."

Disco's promotion to Vice President of Agent Experience is effective immediately, marking a new chapter in her journey with Alliance Group. Her leadership and innovative approach promise to further distinguish Alliance Group as a leader in providing exceptional service and opportunities to its agents and partners.

"I am incredibly honored and excited to step into this new role," said Disco. "Creating meaningful and memorable experiences for our agents and partners has always been my passion. I look forward to continuing to build on our success and further enhancing the Alliance Group brand and agent experience."

About Alliance Group:

As "The Living Benefits IMO," Alliance Group provides independent agents and agencies across the United States with superior marketing and training solutions. Since 1998, Alliance Group has been helping its partners spread awareness about Living Benefits life insurance, while also helping them solve their clients' puzzles regarding tax-free retirement, mortgage protection, small business planning, estate planning needs, and more.

For more information, please visit https://www.alliancegrouplife.com/

Alliance Group, a leading national IMO in the life insurance industry, recently announced the promotion of Chrissy Disco to Vice President of Agent Experience. Having dedicated nine years to the company, Disco has been a cornerstone in establishing a cohesive style and brand identity for Alliance Group in her previous role as Creative Director. Her significant contributions have been pivotal in crafting the exceptional agent experience that has become synonymous with the Alliance Group name.

Related link: https://www.AllianceGroupLife.com/

Can We Reverse Record Overdose Deaths? Foundation for a Drug-Free World Says ‘Yes’ and the Key Is Prevention

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- This year's Rx and Illicit Drug Summit highlighted a grim fact of life: "Overdoses and deaths involving synthetic opioids have reached record rates, and every community across our nation is feeling the impact." According to the CDC, more than half of opioid overdose deaths in 10 states studied tested positive for fentanyl. It's time to slam the pedal down on prevention, says Foundation for a Drug-Free World.

"It's time to realize prevention is the only viable solution to the overdose crises," says Drug-Free World Executive Director Jessica Hochman. "Fentanyl has changed the dynamic of drug abuse." The CDC reports that more than half of opioid overdose deaths in 10 states studied tested positive for fentanyl. A 2022 New York Times exposé pointed out "an alarming" portion of overdose deaths among youth came from "counterfeit pills tainted with fentanyl that teenagers and young adults bought over social media."

"The solution is to educate youth so they don't start taking drugs in the first place," says Hochman. "Empower them with confidence that they are doing the right thing in not taking drugs, period."

With more than 4,000 attending the 4-day Rx and Illicit Drug Summit for 2024 in Atlanta, Drug-Free World reached out with a booth to provide their drug education materials and curriculum free of charge to anyone wishing to take effective action.

Based on Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard's research finding "the single most destructive element present in our current culture is drugs," Scientology Churches and Scientologists support Foundation for a Drug-Free World whose materials are provided free of charge to schools, civic groups, governments, law enforcement, and individuals and institutions in the private sector.

Watch the Drug-Free World public service announcements and The Truth About Drugs-Real People, Real Stories documentary on the Scientology Network, and episodes of Voices for Humanity to see the program in action. The Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and streams at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps, and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.drugfreeworld.org

MULTIMEDIA:

https://www.drugfreeworld.org/news/

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/the-truth-about-drugs.html

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/they-said-they-lied.html

This year's Rx and Illicit Drug Summit highlighted a grim fact of life: "Overdoses and deaths involving synthetic opioids have reached record rates, and every community across our nation is feeling the impact." According to the CDC, more than half of opioid overdose deaths in 10 states studied tested positive for fentanyl. It's time to slam the pedal down on prevention, says Foundation for a Drug-Free World.

Related link: https://www.drugfreeworld.org/

Heartland Multiple Listing Service implements Down Payment Resource to raise homebuyer awareness about down payment assistance programs in the Greater Kansas City community

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry's leading technology for connecting homebuyers with homebuyer assistance programs, today announced that Heartland Multiple Listing Service (MLS) has implemented its tools to notify real estate agents when homebuyers may be eligible for down payment assistance. According to a DPR analysis, 87% of Heartland MLS's listings are eligible for one or more homebuyer assistance programs.

Founded in 1993, Heartland MLS serves more than 12,000 real estate agents in the Greater Kansas City area. The MLS's partnership with DPR flags listings eligible for down payment assistance (DPA) so agents can help make homeownership more accessible in their communities. DPR reports that 27 agencies support 39 homebuyer assistance programs in the Heartland MLS footprint. Assistance amounts range from $3,000 to $37,000 and can be used by homebuyers who earn as much as $143,000 per year toward homes priced up to $766,550, though income and price limits are even higher in certain targeted areas. On average, homes in the Heartland MLS's service region are eligible for roughly $15,000 in assistance.

"Kansas City is seeing a 4% increase in home prices over this time last year, and salaries are just not keeping pace. It's imperative for real estate agents to inform homebuyers about DPA opportunities so more people can qualify for a mortgage and begin building generational wealth through homeownership," said Rob Chrane, founder and CEO of DPR. "We are proud to share our comprehensive database of homebuyer assistance programs - including down payment assistance, grants, affordable first mortgages and more - to help Heartland MLS subscribers better serve their communities, and especially low-to-moderate income (LMI) and minority buyers, with the financial resources that help make homeownership achievable."

"Our MLS subscribers have been long-term champions of the Kansas City community and dedicated to helping homebuyers gain access to safe and sustainable homeownership," said Rob Wagoner, senior vice president, MLS director at Kansas City Regional Association of REALTORS(r) and Heartland MLS. "Our partnership with DPR will help our subscribers better serve homebuyers by shedding light on homebuyer assistance available in our region. Heartland MLS looks forward to further supporting homeownership in our region with DPR's support and user-friendly digital tools."

For more than seven years, Kansas City Regional Association of REALTORS(r), which owns Heartland MLS, has given agent members access to a widget that empowers consumers to search for their homebuyer assistance eligibility.

About Heartland MLS:

Since its inception in 1993, Heartland MLS has been the trusted source for the most complete and accurate real estate information across the Kansas City region. Heartland MLS currently provides services to more than 12,000 subscribers and participants across 39 counties in Kansas and Missouri. Heartland MLS provides real estate professionals with reliable, cost-effective access to a suite of state-of-the-art MLS technology services and products to serve their business needs in today's fast-paced industry. Heartland MLS helped facilitate over 37,000 real estate transactions valued at nearly $12.6 billion in 2023. Heartland MLS is owned and operated by the Kansas City Regional Association of REALTORS(r). For more information, visit the Heartland MLS website.

About Down Payment Resource:

Down Payment Resource (DPR) is the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions. With a database that tracks more than 2,200 programs and toolsets for mortgage lenders, multiple listing services (MLSs) and API users, DPR helps housing professionals connect homebuyers with the assistance they need. DPR frequently lends its expertise to nonprofits, housing finance agencies, policymakers, government-sponsored enterprises and trade organizations seeking to improve housing affordability. Its technology is used by five of the top 10 retail mortgage lenders and MLSs, three of the four largest real estate listing websites and 600,000 real estate agents. For more information, visit https://downpaymentresource.com/.

Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry's leading technology for connecting homebuyers with homebuyer assistance programs, today announced that Heartland Multiple Listing Service (MLS) has implemented its tools to notify real estate agents when homebuyers may be eligible for down payment assistance. According to a DPR analysis, 87% of Heartland MLS's listings are eligible for one or more homebuyer assistance programs.

Related link: https://www.downpaymentresource.com/

A 16-year-old’s first job at Chick-fil-A® who learned ‘second-mile service’ saves operators an estimated $35 million over the years

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- James Finlinson, co-founder of OneClickApp.com™, develops a software solution for his restaurant's director at 16 years old. In 2017, James Finlinson was a busy high schooler in Ammon, Idaho. His cheerful attitude made him a perfect fit for his first job at the local Chick-fil-A® restaurant. One day James noticed his director, Jessica, spending several hours daily transcribing schedules from her computer to paper. He offered to help fix the problem and that is how OneClickApp™ was born.

Encouraged by his father, Jan Finlinson, to learn software programming, James began to code after school, nights, and weekends to fix Jessica's problem. Jessica paid James $75 per month to improve the system.

Seeking inspiration, James and his dad visited the Chick-fil-A® Support Center in Atlanta, GA. While on a tour they met two software engineers who encouraged James to continue. However, James was stuck. He had one paying customer but didn't know how to start or grow a business and was leaving on a service mission for his church in two weeks.

James was then introduced him to Michael Alvarez, a successful entrepreneur and mobile apps pioneer, including being the first to launch a national restaurant search app named "Munch." Michael quickly published a website and organized a webinar. When leaders of 50 restaurants attended, Michael recognized that there was a need and this concept deserved further testing.

A year later when James completed his mission, he returned home to a thriving business serving over 80 Chick-fil-A® restaurants under Michael's direction as CEO and Jan Finlinson as CTO.

Today, the value OneClickApp™ has provided Chick-fil-A® Operators is estimated at over $35 Million by increasing employee retention, communication, and efficiencies. Serving over 40,000 team members and leaders daily, now nearly one in five Chick-fil-A® Operators of standalone stores are connected to OneClickApp™.

"I feel blessed to be able to serve so many of the great team members and leaders for the company that I owe my success to, Chick-fil-A," said James Finlinson.

About OneClickApp:

Serving nearly one-in-five Chick-fil-A® Operators of stand-alone stores, www.OneClickApp.com™ is a leading VendorBridge approved all-in-one workforce management app. The application provides the following time saving features: shift management, training, breaks, create checklists, accountability infraction points, positive reward points, messaging and more.

Learn more at: https://www.oneclickapp.com/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/hC8bUOE2ML0?si=SxeE6Ce9juorPN5q

Video caption: Short Demo showing the Overview of the features we have on OneClickApp

Copyright & Trademark Disclaimer: OneClick is not affiliated with Chick-fil-A® or HotSchedules® and do not claim to own or have rights to the trademarked and copyrighted brands Chick-fil-A® or HotSchedules®. OneClick is Chick-fil-A® VendorBridge approved and our focus is Chick-fil-A®.

James Finlinson, co-founder of OneClickApp.com™, develops a software solution for his restaurant's director at 16 years old. In 2017, James Finlinson was a busy high schooler in Ammon, Idaho. His cheerful attitude made him a perfect fit for his first job at the local Chick-fil-A® restaurant. One day James noticed his director, Jessica, spending several hours daily transcribing schedules from her computer to paper. He offered to help fix the problem and that is how OneClickApp™ was born.

Related link: https://www.oneclickapp.com/

Down Payment Resource’s Veronica Khandelwal named to National Mortgage Professional’s 2024 Women of Inspiration list

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry's leading technology for connecting home buyers with homebuyer assistance programs, today announced that Vice President, Housing Finance Authority (HFA) Relations, Veronica Khandelwal, has been named to the 2024 Women of Inspiration list by National Mortgage Professional, an American Business Media publication.

Khandelwal combines her passion for affordable lending with broad mortgage product development experience to help lenders connect consumers with homebuyer assistance programs nationwide. She was brought on by DPR to manage its HFA relationships, and she has since been promoted twice for her exemplary leadership. More recently, Khandelwal has helped hire, train and manage DPA and HFA experts dedicated to taking the industry-first homebuyer assistance platform to the next level, nearly doubling the size of the team.

Prior to Down Payment Resource, Khandelwal worked in mortgage product development at Fifth Third Bank, where she was the go-to subject matter expert for all affordable lending programs.

"We are extremely proud of Veronica and agree wholeheartedly that she's an exemplary woman of influence on many fronts," said Rob Chrane, CEO of Down Payment Resource. "Her passion for helping historically underserved homebuyers is only matched by her passion for helping lenders uplift buyers by training them on programs designed to help consumers afford the upfront costs of a mortgage loan - one of the most significant financial barriers to homeownership."

"Being recognized on the Women of Inspiration list is a profound honor and a testament to the collective effort of our team at Down Payment Resource," said Khandelwal. "This accolade not only highlights my personal commitment to making homeownership more accessible but also shines a light on the importance of affordable lending programs in empowering consumers and transforming lives. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this mission and to be part of a movement that champions inclusion and equality in the mortgage industry. Together, we are breaking down barriers to homeownership and paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future."

About Down Payment Resource:

Down Payment Resource (DPR) is the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions. With a database that tracks more than 2,200 programs and toolsets for mortgage lenders, multiple listing services and API users, DPR helps housing professionals connect homebuyers with the assistance they need. DPR frequently lends its expertise to nonprofits, housing finance agencies, policymakers, government-sponsored enterprises and trade organizations seeking to improve housing affordability. Its technology is used by five of the top 10 retail mortgage lenders by volume, three of the four largest real estate listing websites and 600,000 real estate agents. For more information, visit https://downpaymentresource.com/.

Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry's leading technology for connecting home buyers with homebuyer assistance programs, today announced that Vice President, Housing Finance Authority (HFA) Relations, Veronica Khandelwal, has been named to the 2024 Women of Inspiration list by National Mortgage Professional, an American Business Media publication.

Related link: https://www.downpaymentresource.com/

Down Payment Resource CEO Rob Chrane honored as 2024 RISMedia Newsmaker

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry's leading technology for connecting home buyers with homebuyer assistance programs, today announced that its Founder and CEO Rob Chrane has been named a RISMedia 2024 Real Estate Newsmaker. Newsmakers are recognized for their contributions to the real estate industry and their efforts to positively impact the consumers and communities they serve.

Chrane was honored in the Crusader category for his relentless commitment to "championing a better way." By developing technology that helps housing professionals connect homebuyers with homebuyer assistance programs, he has profoundly impacted the lives of countless individuals and families striving to achieve homeownership.

Chrane is a 30-year veteran of the housing industry. In 2008, he founded DPR to help people clear the largest hurdle to their homeownership dreams: down payment and closing costs. With his team, Chrane has built the only comprehensive database of homebuyer assistance programs in the nation. To date, DPR has connected more than 6 million unique users with homebuyer assistance program information.

"Sustainable homeownership feels out of reach for many, especially those in underserved communities," said Chrane. "Connecting potential homebuyers with lenders and programs that can help them build wealth and stability is one of the most fulfilling goals I have chased, and I look forward to continuing to support equitable homeownership across the country."

"From the creativity and innovation being implemented through the shifting and challenging 2023 market, to industry records being broken, to the wonderful charitable work being done across the nation, we continue to be amazed by the ingenuity and success of these real estate professionals," said John Featherston, founder, CEO and publisher of RISMedia.

To learn more about RIS Media's 2024 Newsmakers, visit https://www.rismedia.com/newsmaker/rob-chrane-2024/

About Down Payment Resource:

Down Payment Resource (DPR) is the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions. With a database that tracks more than 2,200 programs and toolsets for mortgage lenders, multiple listing services and API users, DPR helps housing professionals connect homebuyers with the assistance they need. DPR frequently lends its expertise to nonprofits, housing finance agencies, policymakers, government-sponsored enterprises and trade organizations seeking to improve housing affordability. Its technology is used by five of the top 10 retail mortgage lenders by volume, three of the four largest real estate listing websites and 600,000 real estate agents. For more information, visit https://downpaymentresource.com/.

X/Twitter: @DwnPmtResource #downpaymentassistance

Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry's leading technology for connecting home buyers with homebuyer assistance programs, today announced that its Founder and CEO Rob Chrane has been named a RISMedia 2024 Real Estate Newsmaker. Newsmakers are recognized for their contributions to the real estate industry and their efforts to positively impact the consumers and communities they serve.

Related link: https://www.downpaymentresource.com/

Down Payment Resource presents Housing and Education Alliance Founder and Executive Director Sylvia Alvarez with 2023 Beverly Faull Affordable Housing Leadership Award

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry's leading technology for connecting home buyers with homebuyer assistance programs, today announced that it selected Sylvia Alvarez, founder and executive director of Housing and Education Alliance (HEA), as the winner of its 2023 Beverly Faull Affordable Housing Leadership Award.

Now in its sixth year, the Beverly Faull Affordable Housing Leadership Award recognizes an individual or organization that has exhibited a steadfast commitment to expanding access to affordable homeownership. DPR created the award program in memory of one of its first employees, Beverly Faull, for her wholehearted dedication to the company's mission to improve access to homebuyer assistance programs.

Long-time housing advocate and HUD-certified Housing Counselor Alvarez founded HEA in 2002 to serve residents of Tampa Bay, Fla. HEA has delivered more than $126 million in down payment assistance to low- and moderate-income (LMI) families in support of 12,000+ home purchases. The non-profit has received many awards including the coveted "NonProfit of the Year" through PBS's national program the Be More Awards.

Alvarez is a highly respected housing advocate and has worked with the U.S. Treasury, HUD, the Department of Agriculture and has been invited to the White House six times to consult on housing issues. She is the co-author of The American Nightmare: Strategies for Preventing, Surviving and Overcoming Foreclosure, which chronicles both the judicial and non-judicial processes, phases, options and consequences of foreclosure and how homeowners can rebuild their credit to purchase a home again. Alvarez has become an advocate and voice for homeless families and is frequently interviewed in local and national media on housing issues.

"We have been a proud partner and admirer of HEA for many years and look toward a brighter future in working together to help even more Tampa families become homeowners," said DPR CEO Rob Chrane. "I see a lot of Beverly [Faull] in Sylvia's determination and leadership style. We are thrilled to recognize her in Beverley's memory."

"I am honored DPR has recognized our efforts to help more than 55,000 Tampa Bay residents secure affordable housing. Our team has been passionate about this issue for more than two decades and continues to help LMI renters in Tampa make the move to homeownership to start to create generational wealth," Alvarez said. "We will continue to work hard to help every deserving applicant have a place to call home."

In recognition of Alvarez's achievements, DPR will make a $5,000 donation to HEA.

To learn more about HEA, visit https://www.heausa.org/.

About Down Payment Resource:

Down Payment Resource (DPR) is the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions. With a database that tracks more than 2,200 programs and toolsets for mortgage lenders, multiple listing services and API users, DPR helps housing professionals connect homebuyers with the assistance they need. DPR frequently lends its expertise to nonprofits, housing finance agencies, policymakers, government-sponsored enterprises and trade organizations seeking to improve housing affordability. Its technology is used by five of the top 10 retail mortgage lenders by volume, three of the four largest real estate listing websites and 600,000 real estate agents.

For more information, visit https://downpaymentresource.com/.

Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry's leading technology for connecting home buyers with homebuyer assistance programs, today announced that it selected Sylvia Alvarez, founder and executive director of Housing and Education Alliance (HEA), as the winner of its 2023 Beverly Faull Affordable Housing Leadership Award.

Related link: https://www.downpaymentresource.com/

Divergent CRO Announces Launch of New Contract Research Organization

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Divergent CRO, a leading provider of clinical services to biotech and device companies, is pleased to announce the official launch of its new Contract Research Organization (CRO). This new venture aims to revolutionize the research and development process by offering comprehensive and tailored clinical services to meet the unique needs of the biotech and device industries.

With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Divergent CRO provides a wide range of services, including clinical trial management, regulatory affairs, data management, biostatistics, and medical writing. By leveraging our extensive expertise, we are dedicated to helping our clients accelerate the development of innovative biopharmaceuticals and medical devices.

Our team of highly skilled professionals, including experienced clinical researchers, project managers, and regulatory specialists, is dedicated to delivering the highest standards of quality and efficiency throughout each stage of the clinical trial process. We understand the challenges faced by biotech and device companies and are committed to providing flexible and cost-effective solutions to meet their specific needs.

Divergent CRO is equipped with cutting-edge technology and infrastructure to ensure the smooth execution of clinical trials. Our advanced data management systems and secure facilities ensure the confidentiality and integrity of study data, while our robust quality assurance processes guarantee compliance with regulatory requirements.

"We are thrilled to launch our new Contract Research Organization and partner with biotech and device companies to advance the development of life-changing therapies," said Divergent CRO's Owner-Partners. "Our team is dedicated to delivering exceptional results and providing the highest level of service to our clients. With our expertise and commitment to excellence, we are confident that we can make a significant impact on the success of their clinical programs."

Divergent CRO is now accepting inquiries and is available to discuss collaboration opportunities with biotech and device companies seeking to enhance their clinical research capabilities.

For more information, please visit Divergentcro.com or contact our business development team at Customerservice@divergentcro.com or (888) 342-1447.

About Divergent CRO:

Divergent CRO is a leading provider of clinical services to biotech and device companies. With a focus on innovation and quality, we strive to accelerate the development of life-changing therapies through our comprehensive and tailored clinical services. We thrive on leaving our clients and patients satisfied by improving human health and wellness. Our team of experts is dedicated to delivering exceptional results and providing the highest level of service to our clients. At Divergent CRO, we don't just manage clinical trials; we craft personalized solutions, striving to be the difference by transforming challenges into triumphs in the pursuit of groundbreaking healthcare innovation.

Learn more at: https://divergentcro.com/

Social Links:

LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divergentcro/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divergent.cro/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divergentcro1

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DivergentCRO

Featured Podcasts:

The Jali Podcast - Melyssa Barrett/DivergentCRO - https://melyssabarrett.com/the-jali-podcast/

Episode Thirty-one - AMY HUTTO, PRODUCTIVITY COACH - https://amyhutto.com/podcast/s1ep30

Divergent CRO, a leading provider of clinical services to biotech and device companies, is pleased to announce the official launch of its new Contract Research Organization (CRO). This new venture aims to revolutionize the research and development process by offering comprehensive and tailored clinical services to meet the unique needs of the biotech and device industries.

Related link: https://divergentcro.com/

Down Payment Resource reports 135 homebuyer assistance programs were introduced in 2023 to combat the least affordable housing market in decades

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions, today released its Q4 2023 Homeownership Program Index (HPI) report. During a year when home affordability hit a nearly four-decade low, housing agencies introduced 135 homebuyer assistance programs and expanded eligible inventory to make homeownership more accessible.

"As the housing market grappled with historic affordability challenges in 2023, our HPI report reveals a critical response: the introduction of 135 innovative homebuyer assistance programs - a six-percent increase over the previous year. This surge in programs, which now totals 2,294 nationwide, represents a concerted effort by housing agencies to expand opportunities and break down barriers to homeownership," said Rob Chrane, Founder and CEO of DPR. "With a significant increase in programs for manufactured homes, multi-family properties, and specific buyer demographics like service members and Native Americans, this year's report underscores a growing commitment to diversify housing solutions and empower a broader spectrum of aspiring homeowners."

Key HPI Report Findings

An examination of the existing 2,294 homebuyer assistance programs on January 8, 2024, resulted in the following key findings:

* 804 programs allow for the purchase of a manufactured home, up 20% from the previous year. Housing agencies are expanding program eligibility to include more property types. Manufactured housing has a lower entry point than other types of homes and is helping many buyers get their foot in the door. DPR expects to see the number of programs that allow for manufactured housing continue to grow.

* 686 programs allow for the purchase of a multi-family property, up 8% from the previous year. Using DPA to purchase a multi-family property has become increasingly popular. This allows people to become homebuyers as well as investors - a strategy that has been called "house hacking" in recent years. In addition to completing a homebuyer education class, borrowers purchasing a multi-family home with homebuyer assistance typically have to go through classes on being a landlord to ensure long-term sustainability.

* 448 programs are funded by state Housing Finance Agencies (HFAs), up 2% from the previous year. Programs from state HFAs account for 20% of all programs.

- 86 programs are offered through Florida's State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP), up 12 programs from Q4 2022. Florida Housing's SHIP program funds are distributed on an entitlement basis to all 67 counties and 55 Community Development Block Grant entitlement cities in Florida. SHIP dollars may be used to fund emergency repairs, new construction, rehabilitation, down payment and closing cost assistance, impact fees, construction and gap financing, mortgage buy-downs, acquisition of property for affordable housing, matching dollars for federal housing grants and programs, and homeownership counseling.

* 922 programs are available through municipalities, up 5% from the previous year. There has been steady growth in programs from municipalities, especially states with high home prices like California, where many homebuyers struggle with affordability.

* 475 DPA programs are available through nonprofits, up 15% from the previous year.

* 194 programs are "incentive" programs, meaning they target a segment of homebuyers by profession or ethnicity. In Q4 2023, there was a 47% increase in programs YoY for service members and Veterans and a 13% increase in programs targeting Native American homebuyers.

A more detailed analysis of the Q4 2023 HPI findings, including infographics and examples of the programs described in this release, can be found on DPR's website at: https://downpaymentresource.com/professional-resource/the-down-payment-resource-q4-2023-homeownership-program-index-report/.

For a complete list of homebuyer assistance programs by state, visit: https://downpaymentresource.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/HPI-state-by-state-data.Q42023.pdf.

Methodology

Published quarterly, DPR's HPI surveys the funding status, eligibility rules and benefits of U.S. homebuyer assistance programs administered by state and local housing finance agencies, municipalities, nonprofits and other housing organizations. DPR communicates with over 1,300 program providers throughout the year to track and update the country's wide range of homeownership programs, including down payment and closing cost programs, Mortgage Credit Certificates (MCCs) and affordable first mortgages, in the DOWN PAYMENT RESOURCE(r) database.

About Down Payment Resource:

Down Payment Resource (DPR) is the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions. With a database that tracks more than 2,200 programs and toolsets for mortgage lenders, multiple listing services and API users, DPR helps housing professionals connect homebuyers with the assistance they need. DPR frequently lends its expertise to nonprofits, housing finance agencies, policymakers, government-sponsored enterprises and trade organizations seeking to improve housing affordability. Its technology is used by five of the top 10 retail mortgage lenders by volume, three of the four largest real estate listing websites and 600,000 real estate agents. For more information, visit https://downpaymentresource.com/.

Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions, today released its Q4 2023 Homeownership Program Index (HPI) report. During a year when home affordability hit a nearly four-decade low, housing agencies introduced 135 homebuyer assistance programs and expanded eligible inventory to make homeownership more accessible.

Related link: https://www.downpaymentresource.com/

Down Payment Resource’s Executive Vice President Sean Moss honored in National Mortgage Professional’s 2024 Industry Titans awards program

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry's leading technology for connecting home buyers with homebuyer assistance programs, today announced its Executive Vice President of Product and Operations Sean Moss has been selected as an Industry Titan by National Mortgage Professional (NMP) magazine. The award recognizes experienced professionals who show exceptional dedication, compassion and integrity who are improving the mortgage industry for both industry professionals and the clients they serve.

NMP recognized Moss for more than a decade of dedication to making homeownership possible for low-to-moderate income (LMI) homebuyers. Moss guides DPR to simplify, standardize and expand access to important but underutilized homebuyer assistance programs, including down payment assistance (DPA). With his laser focus on evolving DPR's products to empower professionals and homebuyers nationwide, Moss embodies the compassion and advocacy of an Industry Titan.

"I am deeply honored to be recognized as an Industry Titan by National Mortgage Professional magazine. This accolade is not just a reflection of my personal commitment, but it is a testament to the collective efforts of our team at Down Payment Resource," said Moss. "Our mission has always been to make homeownership more accessible, especially for low-to-moderate income families. By simplifying and expanding access to homebuyer assistance programs, we are not just offering financial solutions but are empowering dreams and building stronger communities. I am proud of the impact we've made and am excited to continue our work in revolutionizing the housing industry for the betterment of homebuyers and professionals alike."

Sean Moss has more than 18 years of experience in the real estate and finance industry. As DPR's executive vice president of product and operations, Moss oversees product strategy and development and collaborates with customers and partners to implement new solutions for affordable lending challenges. DPR keeps tabs on every homebuyer assistance program in the country by communicating with over 1,300 program providers year-round and keeping more than 2,200 programs up to date in its DPA Directory.

The full list of 2024 Industry Titans honorees can be viewed on the National Mortgage Professional website.

About Down Payment Resource:

Down Payment Resource (DPR) is the housing industry authority on homebuyer assistance program data and solutions. With a database that tracks more than 2,200 programs and toolsets for mortgage lenders, multiple listing services and API users, DPR helps housing professionals connect homebuyers with the assistance they need. DPR frequently lends its expertise to nonprofits, housing finance agencies, policymakers, government-sponsored enterprises and trade organizations seeking to improve housing affordability. Its technology is used by five of the top 10 retail mortgage lenders by volume, three of the four largest real estate listing websites and 600,000 real estate agents. For more information, visit https://downpaymentresource.com/.

Down Payment Resource (DPR), the housing industry's leading technology for connecting home buyers with homebuyer assistance programs, today announced its Executive Vice President of Product and Operations Sean Moss has been selected as an Industry Titan by National Mortgage Professional (NMP) magazine. The award recognizes experienced professionals who show exceptional dedication, compassion and integrity who are improving the mortgage industry for both industry professionals and the clients they serve.

Related link: https://www.downpaymentresource.com/

Depth 2023 growth drives key hires in strategic marketing and content development as residential mortgage and real estate industries poise for reboot

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Depth, a leading provider of consultative B2B marketing, public relations and reputation management services for technology companies in the residential mortgage finance, financial technology (fintech), real estate technology (REtech) and related regulatory technology (regtech) industries, will close 2023 with a significantly larger internal team and client roster in anticipation of continued rebound for mortgage and real estate volume.

The Georgia-based agency welcomed three new team members in the second half of 2023:

* Adria Riley, client services manager, joined Depth in December after a six-year role as marketing design specialist for mortgage document prep vendor International Document Services (acquired by Wolters Kluwer in 2022).

* Senior Content Writer Laura Lang joined Depth in August, bringing more than 35 years' experience as a writer, including 15 years in the mortgage industry with roles at Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae.

* Roxanne Greeson, Depth's operations engineer and problem solver extraordinaire, joined the team officially after nine years of behind-the-scenes support, spearheading the firm's internal systems and client collaboration platforms.

In addition, Depth announced the promotions of Lindsey Neal and Leslie Colley to executive vice president in October.

"2023 has been a serendipitous year for our firm," said Depth President and Founder Kerri Milam. "We added several new clients, often intersecting again with businesses and business leaders we've served over the last 17 years - each of them eager to have a strategically meaningful impact on their industry. When we hire, we make their needs a priority. We've been fortunate this year to find exceptional, versatile personnel with applicable expertise, including strong backgrounds in fintech, mortgage lending, REtech and real estate transactions to deepen and broaden our services."

Depth has worked shoulder-to-shoulder with the fintechs driving the modernization and digitization of housing finance since its founding in 2006. Since adding several new clients in 2023, the firm now serves almost two dozen technology trailblazers and services innovators spanning grassroots, family-financed startups to global, publicly traded enterprises.

"Our focus on doing business in a truly client-centric way is validated by the value our clients place on our services, even during off-cycle years," said Milam. "I attribute our success this year both to our far-sighted clients and our disciplined client-first approach. For that, we have our staff to thank and recognize."

About Depth:

Depth is a leading independent provider of consultative B2B marketing, public relations and reputation management services for the mortgage lending and residential finance industries. Since 2006, the firm has represented a clientele of established and emerging brands serving mortgage lenders, mortgage servicers, real estate professionals and appraisers. Depth is committed to serving the cause of digital innovation and to practicing the pay-it-forward principle alongside The Golden Rule. A woman-owned business, Depth is a member and supporter of the Mortgage Bankers Association, Housing Finance Strategies and The Mortgage Collaborative.

For more information, visit https://depthpr.com/

Depth, a leading provider of consultative B2B marketing, public relations and reputation management services for technology companies in the residential mortgage finance, financial technology (fintech), real estate technology (REtech) and related regulatory technology (regtech) industries, will close 2023 with a significantly larger internal team and client roster in anticipation of continued rebound for mortgage and real estate volume.

Related link: https://www.DepthPR.com/