Housing counselors often see people at the best of times – on the verge of fulfilling a dream – but also see people at their most vulnerable times and everywhere in between. “It’s taxing work,” says Ann DiPetta, who has worked in the affordable housing and community development field for over 20 years. “It’s demanding. It can be emotionally difficult. And it’s important to take care of yourself so you don’t burn out.”
NeighborWorks America convened 17 real estate professionals from across the network this week for an in-person training to focus on Advancing Leaders in Real Estate. This is the first time all four regions of the country have been a part of the intensive, 10-month program, which started in the Northeast and has grown over the past three years.

NeighborWorks America Awards Second Tranche of FY 2025 Flexible Impact Grants: More Than $13.9 Million of Investment to Nonprofits Driving Proven, Market-Based Solutions to the Nation’s Housing Supply and Affordability Crisis 

For Immediate Release 

May 22, 2025 

Contact: Douglas Robinson

[email protected]

Network leaders representing 48 states and Puerto Rico gathered in Washington, D.C., last week for the annual NeighborWorks Executive Symposium (NES). The two-day event, Reshaping Tomorrow: Investing in People & Transforming Communities, was a time for candid conversations and peer learning as the leaders talked about the most important issues facing their community development nonprofits.

NeighborWorks America presented two longtime leaders with the 2025 Founders Award this month. Robert “Bobby” Calvillo, president and CEO of Affordable Homes of South Texas, Inc., and Ann Houston, former executive director of The Neighborhood Developers and founder of Opportunity Communities, received the award for their contributions in the community development field and for their legacy in innovation and dedication.

Susan M. Ifill

Susan M. Ifill is executive vice president and chief operating officer for NeighborWorks America, leading programs and staff who support network and field operations. She previously served as chief executive officer of Neighborhood Housing Services of New York City (NHSNYC), a NeighborWorks network organization, working to address affordable housing and fight displacement across New York City. Prior to joining NHSNYC, Ifill was the senior vice president and chief retail officer for Carver Federal Savings Bank in New York.
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