What began as one veteran's journey across America has grown into a lasting partnership helping veterans find housing, access essential services, and build stronger connections in their communities. 

In April 2019, Tommy Zurhellen boarded a one-way flight to Portland, Oregon, with a pair of running shoes, a mailbag, and a determination to make a difference. 

His plan was ambitious: Walk across the United States to raise awareness about veteran suicide and homelessness. 

NeighborWorks ® Community Leadership Institute (CLI): Ignite launched this month with groups of residents gathering to connect and learn. A virtual adaptation of the traditional CLI, which brings together resident leaders for a weekend of training and inspiration, this year’s event is designed to meet people where they live. 

There is a difference between holding an event in a community and allowing that community to become part of the event. 

For NeighborWorks® America, that distinction matters. 

Why would an affordable housing developer own a community art gallery? At NHS Greater New Britain, housing and art aren't separate missions. They're complementary parts of one approach to building community. NHS New Britain President & CEO Chris Sanders explained, “NHS Gallery 66 provides us with a powerful focal point for convening and engaging. It is an important part of our mission of making a community a better place to call home.” 

Nearly 200 NeighborWorks® network organizations celebrated NeighborWorks Weeks this year with activities, groundbreakings, block parties and more. Below, please find stories and snapshots from some of the gatherings, with more to come.

Building a community for seniors in Las Vegas

Nevada HAND, a NeighborWorks network organization in Las Vegas, Nevada, broke ground last week – NeighborWorks Week – on its largest development for older Americans to date.