Despite the importance of housing counseling and education, Latino Policy Forum analysis of HUD certified/approved housing counseling organizations reveals that the demand for counselors in predominantly-Latino communities far outpaces supply. In response, the Latino Policy Forum currently coordinates two programs related to housing education:
Fair Housing Ambassadors: To ensure equal access to housing options, the Latino Policy Forum engages and empowers Latino households through its Promotores de Vivienda Justa (Fair Housing Ambassadors). Promotores are community members recruited from local universities who are trained in federal, state, and local fair housing ordinances. They provide leadership, peer education, support, and resources for community empowerment. Promotores travel to various community venues, including Chicago’s Mexican Consulate, to conduct workshops and provide information. Promotores empower the public with knowledge of fair housing rights and responsibilities and expand housing choices for all community members, including Latinos.
TECHO: Given the lack of culturally and linguistically relevant resources that address the distinct needs of the local Latino community, the Latino Policy Forum has created TECHO©, (Training and Education Create Housing Opportunities), a train-the-trainer model designed to develop community-based housing advocates capable of delivering practical housing education. The content is targeted to individuals who experience housing challenges and offers practical knowledge to aid in the acquisition and maintenance of quality housing. The engaging curriculum introduces best practices on major housing topics with an end goal of assisting housing seekers and providers serving the greater Latino community in alleviating challenges associated with limited housing opportunities.
Photo: Olga Lopez