HDC’s Resident Advisory Council was launched in 2022 as a vehicle to amplify resident voices and create opportunities for HDC residents to have a seat at the decision-making table, providing input to the HDC Board of Directors.
Fifteen residents from across HDC’s footprint volunteered to participate in this Council, discussing important topics, providing feedback on HDC policies and procedures, and sharing experiences with each other. Over the course of the year, the residents met four times via Zoom. They were able to meet in person in August at the Resident Advisory Council Celebration at the S. Dale High Leadership Center in Lancaster, PA. The afternoon was full of acknowledgements and fellowship as members reflected on their time on the Council.
“Today I thank you who made this possible. A thousand thanks for allowing us to reach your homes through the means of technology, for sharing with us your ideas and concerns as residents committed to your community and to the Residents Advisory Council,” Edwin Martinez Feliciano, HDC Board Member, resident of Duke Manor Apartments, and Chair of the Council, shared at the event. “I hope this experience helps you continue to grow as a human being every day; as residents who give everything for their community and the seed continues to spread to all HDC communities.”
Residents were given a certificate commemorating their participation in the Council’s inaugural year.
“It was an honor to participate on the Council,” Joan Sehl, resident at Southgate Apartments in Leesport, PA, shared at the celebration. “There were so many good ideas shared. I really believe, what are we here for if not to help others in life?”
Six residents have decided to stay on the council for the next year. A Review Committee made up of staff and resident council members are currently selecting new participants to serve on the council for the upcoming year.
Learn more about Resident Engagement opportunities here: https://hdcweb.org/resident-engagement/
Every voice matters. At HDC, we are committed to raising up resident voices and opening doors so that residents can actively participate in the democratic process, speak out on issues important to them and their communities, and communicate how policies affect their everyday lives. We believe it is important to make the time and space to listen, and to support resident leaders in effectively using their voices. We support resident advocacy opportunities through our Resident Academy of Leadership & Inspiration, Voter Registration Drives, and holding constituent meetings and tours with elected officials.
Allentown, PA
Fredericksburg, PA
Lancaster, PA
Finding a place to live that meets one’s basic needs and budget can feel like a never-ending challenge. The complexity of lower-income families and individuals extend far beyond simply finding a safe, affordable, and welcoming place to call home. At HDC, we are committed to being an ally in speaking to issues, programs, and policies that improve quality of life of our residents. Issues that we know are important to our residents include:
We know we can’t solve the affordable housing challenge alone. We need champions to help change the conversation around what home means and why it matters. We are committed to educating elected officials to understand the needs and challenges of their constituents. We are here to provide solutions that work and offer affordable housing expertise that demonstrates the impact policy decisions have on lower-income families, seniors and those with disabilities. We work closely with and participate in alliances and coalitions to educate and advance shared policy priorities. Our advocacy partners include:
Wendy Smith serves as the Vice President of Property Management, responsible for the overall strategic direction for HDC’s management portfolio and the organization’s largest staff team. Previously, Wendy served as Asset and Operations Manager for a leading real estate firm based in New York City which owned over 11,000 affordable homes. Since 2008, Wendy has held roles in regional level operations for commercial and for-profit housing agencies. Wendy holds a degree in International Studies.
