Families are investing not only in physical structures but in their future. They are trading, in a sense, civic detachment for engagement. By supporting the collaborations that help people achieve the goal of home ownership, funders are not only producing affordable housing, they are creating a context from which a whole range of positive behaviors can emerge. By opening the door for those willing to risk and sacrice, the possibility of achievement is enhanced. When achievement is realized, people can begin to create better opportunities for themselves.
Civic fabric requires a sense of belonging.
When people are isolated from the economic mainstream, this sense of belonging is hard to achieve. People perceive that their options are limited. By helping people buy and maintain a home, NHS and the other partners in Santa Fe's Affordable Housing Roundtable are enabling people to connect to the economic mainstream. Santa Fe's comprehensive housing strategies are increasing citizens' sense of belonging. But the impact of these housing strategies extends beyond the families directly assisted.