Neighborhood Housing Services of Baltimore, Inc.

Neighborhood Housing Services of Baltimore, Inc. (NHS Baltimore) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to revitalizing Baltimore communities through homeownership opportunities. Established in 1974, it has been a cornerstone in improving the physical appearance of neighborhoods, stabilizing local real estate markets, and promoting community development.

Mission and Objectives

NHS Baltimore's mission is to spark renewed vitality in neighborhoods by engaging community partners, increasing sustainable homeownership, and advancing innovative capital solutions. The organization believes that homeownership is a key factor in creating wealth, strengthening families, and revitalizing neighborhoods. It also emphasizes the importance of informed homebuyers being equipped to make better decisions in the housing market.

NHS Baltimore operates under the principles that everyone should have the opportunity to achieve homeownership as part of the American Dream. The organization works to remove barriers to sustainable homeownership, particularly for low- and moderate-income households in Baltimore.

Programs and Services

The organization offers a range of services and programs aimed at supporting community development:

• Homebuyer Education and Counseling: Provides guidance and resources to potential homeowners to prepare them for the responsibilities and benefits of homeownership.
• Home Rehabilitation and Renovation: Assists in rehabilitating homes to make them suitable for ownership or rental, enhancing the physical environment of neighborhoods.
• Community Engagement and Leadership Development: Encourages community involvement and leadership to ensure that neighborhoods have active stakeholders in their revitalization.
• Financial Tools and Assistance: Offers specialized financial options for homebuyers, rehabbers, and homeowners, facilitating access to affordable housing solutions.

Collaborations and Partnerships

NHS Baltimore partners with various stakeholders, including residents, financial institutions, community organizations, and local governments, to achieve its goals. It is certified by NeighborWorks America, which supports community development initiatives across the United States. As a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), NHS Baltimore also plays a significant role in providing financial services and access to capital for community development projects.

Impact and Achievements

Over its history, NHS Baltimore has contributed significantly to the revitalization of various neighborhoods in Baltimore. By focusing on sustainable homeownership and community development, the organization has helped stabilize neighborhoods and improve the quality of life for residents. Its efforts have been recognized through its successful partnership model, which has been replicated in other areas.

Organizational Structure and Funding

NHS Baltimore receives support from the State of Maryland, local governments, and private contributions. It operates under a board that includes representatives from local governments and community organizations, ensuring that its activities are aligned with the needs of the communities it serves. Funding includes state grants and matching contributions from local sources, which are used to support operating costs and program development.

By focusing on holistic community development and sustainable homeownership, Neighborhood Housing Services of Baltimore continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing Baltimore's neighborhoods and promoting social and economic justice for its residents.

[1] http://www.clcches.org/about.html [2] https://nhsofnewhaven.org/about/a-brief-history/ [3] https://www.fdic.gov/resources/regulations/federal-register-publications/2020/2020-community-reinvestment-act-regulations-3064-af22-c-295.pdf [4] https://www.idealist.org/en/nonprofit/679315a9227e4c94a229245cca1e5981-neighborhood-housing-services-of-baltimore-inc-baltimore [5] https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Communities/Pages/programs/NHS.aspx