Fiscal Year 2022 Annual Report Building a Strong Financial Future
2022: Building a Strong Financial Future
RICHARD F. BURNS
KENNETH D. WHITE
FOR RENTERS in our affordable housing communities, achieving financial stability is paramount. In 2022, we are proud of several efforts residents have participated in to achieve this goal, but first a little context: According to the Aspen Institute, financial stability means having enough of a financial cushion, broadly defined, to cope with everyday financial shocks, while still progressing towards financial goals. Residents focus on improving financial status by taking part in a number of programs developed by Operation Pathways (OP). These include: • Financial Education: Financial literacy workshops provided opportunities for residents to learn about credit, insurance, investment and savings. Operation Pathways produced over 700 workshops in 2022. An additional 436 residents across 18 properties participated in America Saves Week vowing to open bank accounts, decrease debt, and save over $23,000. • Workforce Development: Residents use Operation Pathways-provided computers at every property in which we operate. The organization offers technology workshops, job search assistance, GED support, resume writing assistance, and interview prep. In 2022, over 500 residents enjoyed computer access and took part in trainings. • A nnual Summer Work Internship Program: This important program providing hands-on learning about the affordable housing industry grows each year with 163 interns taking part since its inception. Young people work in and learn about careers in property management, acquisitions, development, construction management, accounting, and more. They finish their internships with a presentation reflecting on their summer learning and their aspirations for their futures. • B enefits Support and Assistance: This past year, more than 1,300 residents availed themselves of the strong, proactive benefits enrollment aid provided by Operation Pathways. An additional 1000+ received eviction prevention support and services making this robust offering one of the most important that the organization provides.
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“We should remember that good fortune often happens when opportunity meets with preparation.” —THOMAS A. EDISON
Our commitment to residents gaining financial literacy, and security is unwavering. This is also demonstrated via our partnership with Esusu, the leading technology platform leveraging data to empower renters and improve property performance. The platform unlocks financial access and stability for renters and property owners. We are proud to report that in 2022, 730 residents established their first credit scores and 69% of residents increased their credit scores by their on-time rent payments. And the work does not stop there, providing “opportunity and preparation” for residents to achieve financial and other goals is the mission of Operation Pathways and we remain steadfast and grateful to partners, donors, and staff who are helping us along the way.
Sincerely,
Richard F. Burns
Kenneth D. White
President,
Executive Director & Chief Operating Officer,
Operation Pathways, Inc.
Operation Pathways, Inc.
FOXWOOD MANOR, LEVITTOWN, PENNSYLVANIA
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Resident Voices: Snapshots from 2022
Restoring Irma’s Benefits
In late summer of 2022, Irma, a resident at Plaza Borinquen, called RSC Karina Molina in some distress. Irma had just come home from the hospital following a double leg amputation. She was upset and crying on the phone because all her benefits had been discontinued while she was in the hospital—her SNAP, SSI, and Medicaid were all cancelled. The next day Karina immediately conducted an in-home visit with Irma. The two spoke about Irma’s health troubles which had led to the surgeries and eventual amputation. The conversation left Irma distraught so Karina provided compassion and comfort, letting her know that everything would be alright. During the home visit, Irma asked Karina if she could assist with reinstating her services. Karina leapt into action, happy to take the lead with outreach so
IRMA WITH RSC KARINA MOLINA, PLAZA BORINQUEN, BRONX, NEW YORK
Irma could concentrate on healing. In addition to the recent health troubles, Irma also deals with diabetes, high blood pressure, and a host of other health issues, treatment of which is dependent upon Medicaid. With her Medicaid benefits in limbo, Irma would not be able to pay for the important medications that Medicare covered. Later that same week, with a signed consent document from Irma, Karina began to reach out to the benefit providers. She also contacted Lincoln Hospital where the surgery took place and the nursing rehab home where Irma moved after the surgery. Additionally, Karina called the Social Security Administration and the New York City Human Resources Agency. Although progress was slow, Karina’s dogged determination never flagged as she kept Irma informed and continued to meet other needs for her. Finally, in November, Karina was able to have Irma’s full benefits restored—her SNAP, SSI, and Medicaid. Irma was so relieved and grateful for the on-site support she received enabling her services to be restored without having to leaving her home. Karina was happy to be able to help and be a part of a story with a very happy ending—restoring all of Irma’s benefits.
Where Irma lives matters.
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CIN’CERE HUNTLEY AT THE 6TH ANNUAL NHPF SYMPOSIUM, ONE PAYCHECK AWAY FROM HOMELESSNESS: BUILDING POPULAR SUPPORT FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING
Cin’cere Huntley: A Hollander Ridge Summer Intern Story Cin’cere Huntley, a resident of Hollander Ridge in Baltimore, Maryland, took part in Operation Pathways’ Summer Internship Program. As part of the summer program students were asked to imagine a real estate project, with a budget, that they would want to design. Cin’cere’s vision for a social and cultural community center was borne out of her own research and lived experience which showed that in a city of over 700,000, Baltimore has only 44 recreation centers. Cin’cere’s research showed that low-income areas of Baltimore, suffering from years of structural racism and blight, were particularly lacking in safe places for people to gather but also had a surplus of abandoned buildings and vacant lots. This inspired Cin’cere to put her internship training to use in developing a proposal for a site. During her internship Cin’cere and her peers learned about property development, budgeting skills, profit and loss, and basic real estate knowledge. The vision for the Cin’cere Social and Cultural Community Centre included a swimming pool, gymnasium, kitchen, and ballet center. The center would offer childcare and be a warm and welcoming space to bring the community together. Cin’cere delivered her presentation at the 6th Annual NHPF Symposium in Washington, DC to an audience of hundreds. Her heartfelt earnestness and sincerity moved many to tears.
The future looks bright for Cin’cere Huntley.
Where Cin’cere Huntley lives matters.
OPERATION PATHWAYS, INC. | FISCAL YEAR 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 5
Operation Pathways By the Numbers 2022
Resident Participation & Services
4,634 Residents participated in healthier living programs and services.
3,807 Residents participated in civic and community engagement programs. 2,236 Youth participated in youth education and development programs. 1,359 Residents received benefits enrollment support and assistance. 1,302 Residents received household management support services. 1,015 Residents received eviction prevention support and services. 946 Residents received financial education and financial support services. 504 Residents received computer access and training services. 314 Residents participated in family-centered coaching. 1,650 Residents received essential donations.
Success in 2022 was only possible because of the hard work and commitment of our staff and the collaboration and support from property management teams, communities, volunteers, corporate partners, foundation friends, and individual supporters.
5,913 Residents participated in programs and services.
3,695 Households served.
310 Partner organizations.
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Resident Engagement In 2022, Operation Pathways made a commitment across our portfolio to increase resident engagement and agency. This included efforts to create opportunities for residents to inform, plan, lead, evaluate, and participate in community events or programs. This was facilitated through OP Resident Advisory Council Meetings, OP resident feedback surveys, residents meetings with property management teams, and with the help of resident leaders and volunteers. 2,038 Residents attended resident engagement events. 1,900 Residents participated in neighbor relations activities. 427 Residents attended neighborhood planning events. 164 Residents joined OP Advisory Councils. 421 Residents volunteered in their communities.
Housing Stability Housing stability is one of the hallmarks of OP programming. This year, our RSCs worked with community members, and partnered with a number of private, non-profit, and government organizations.
R esidents received rental assistance and were able to stay in their homes due to this support. This included applying cost saving initiatives, which for some had immediate impact.
1,000
$608,851
Total rent savings for residents.
Resident Outcome Surveys This year, OP staff conducted biennial Resident Outcome Surveys. These voluntary surveys are conducted in coordination with our partner organization, Stewards of Affordable Housing for the Future (SAHF) and capture demographic, community engagement as well as health and wellness information from the residents. Findings are used internally to evaluate and inform on-site programming and externally to advocate for resident centered policy changes in affordable housing.
Digital Access & Equity In 2022, OP continued its work with Digital Access & Equity. Residents were connected to computer repair programs, computer support open-hours sessions were hosted on-site, and special on-site computer programs were also provided for seniors.
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Operation Pathways By the Numbers 2022
Healthier Living In 2022, mental and emotional well-being of residents was a focal point for OP programming. 4,600 Residents received health-related services. 11,000 Healthy meals were provided to residents. 2,900 Food bank referrals were obtained. 4,500 Healthy food deliveries were coordinated across our properties.
Financial Stability
In 2022, OP continued its participation in “America Saves Week.” Residents were offered opportunities to open savings accounts, participate in financial literacy workshops, and learn how to budget.
436 Residents across 18 properties made pledges to open bank accounts, decrease debt, and to save over $23,000. 663 Residents participated in financial literacy and money management workshops. 324 Banking, savings, and investment account sessions were hosted. 134 Credit counseling and credit repair sessions were held. 316 Budget workshop sessions were held.
Residents reported increasing their fruit and vegetable intake owing to their exposure to these healthy living initiatives.
1,600
Residents were provided opportunities to participate in on-site exercise, nutrition, and health programs. Residents received assistance with health insurance, Medicaid and Medicare, and benefit program enrollments. Residents were connected to community drug and alcohol programs, mental health and health counseling services.
Youth Programming In 2022, 883 youth community members participated in education programs and 1,290 participated in youth development. We distributed 6,800 afternoon snacks, 1,359 breakfasts and 2,261 lunches for youths. Youth community members were provided access to a mix of afterschool, arts and music, literacy, and youth leadership programs. Summer camp services provided students the opportunity to receive tutoring, engage in career exploration, and enjoy fun field trips. Youth community members were given counseling and guidance related to life skills, bullying, and selecting and preparing for college.
Essential Supplies We partnered with local organizations to provide residents with essential supplies. 2,300 Hygiene items were distributed. 465 Residents received school supplies. 900 Household goods donations were made.
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Resident Appreciation In 2022, OP hosted appreciation events to thank residents for making our communities vibrant places to live. Among the events were “Older American Month” celebrations to recognize senior residents for their contributions to the community. Food drives, birthday parties, and holiday celebrations create a festive atmosphere for residents. Residents also participated in “National Night Out Against Crime” events, a community-building campaign aimed at promoting police-community partnerships, held to promote safer communities and neighborhood camaraderie.
Internship Program This year, 19 teens participated in the Operation Pathways Affordable Housing Internship program. Teens gained work experience and participated in a variety of professional learning opportunities. These included training in career exploration, financial education, affordable housing sector classes, and more. From a survey conducted following the program:
of interns reported they felt better prepared to achieve future educational, career, and personal goals. reported having a plan in place to obtain the career they wanted after completing school compared to 78% at the start of the program. reported having a better understanding of how to budget, save, and manage money compared to 42% at the start of the program.
90%
Staff Feedback & Appreciation This year, OP leadership recognized staff members who contributed meaningfully to the to the success of its programs and services. In a staff survey conducted in 2022, RSCs reported feeling satisfied with their work and feeling valued, inspired, and supported by the OP team. 88% of staff members felt they are valued by OP.
92%
92%
82% of staff members were inspired and motivated by the work of OP. 88% of staff members felt a sense of
accomplishment from their work as an RSC.
INTERNS REFLECT “The most important thing I learned about this summer was the importance of my credit score. I did not realize how important it was and how easy it is to mess things up for your score.” “The most important takeaway for me was learning more about me and what I want for myself in the future.”
of staff members believed they received the support they needed from the OP leadership team to achieve their goals.
82%
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Our Mission Operation Pathways seeks to transform affordable housing communities through innovative programs that engage, empower, and support residents to achieve the future they desire.
Our Vision Through our work, we envision vibrant, collaborative communities where neighbors help neighbors and families thrive.
122 EAST 42ND STREET, SUITE 4900, NEW YORK, NY 10168 1090 VERMONT AVENUE, NW, SUITE 400, WASHINGTON, DC 20005 159 N SANGAMON STREET, SUITES 200 & 300, CHICAGO, IL 60607 1501 ST. PAUL STREET, SUITE 128, BALTIMORE, MD 21202 operationpathways.org
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