Housing is an extraordinary need but also basic human right. Due to unforeseen circumstances, Mr. McKee had to abruptly uproot from his previous residence to find new rental housing. After spending half his life in Oak Park, Mr. McKee had a need and a desire to remain in this community where his roots had been planted. Mr. McKee had used the Housing Center for services in the past. He was excited to learn that the services offered by the Oak Park Regional Housing Center were still available. He recalled the helpfulness of the Housing Center staff and the willingness to ensure that he would receive the assistance needed to secure housing in the community he loves. Mr. McKee was seeking a new rental residence that would welcome him and his dog Duke. Gretchen, the Housing Center Residential Coordinator, worked with Mr. McKee to help him find a location that was suitable for him and his dog Duke. Gretchen soon found a studio apartment that would accommodate Mr. Mckee with his budget and his furry friend. Mr. McKee has stated that this process put his mind at ease about what his next housing opportunity would be. Mr. McKee has stated he would and continues to recommend the services of the Oak Park Regional Housing Center.
Meet Deborah Williams, Associate Director- HUD programming, of the Oak Park Regional Housing Center. Deborah has more than 10 years of experience assisting and educating individuals to become homeowners, manage their finances and to sustain their homeownership. Deborah makes a “statement” as she provides services to each of the clients that participate in the Oak Park Regional Housing Center’s West Cook Homeownership program. Her most recent impact was the assistance she provided to client Allie. Allie is a housing choice voucher holder who is seeking to become a homeowner. Allie has always wanted to become a homeowner. However, she never received the support she felt she needed when she would talk to other social service providers of other agencies. She was nervous, however, when she met Deborah, she found someone who would help her with every step of the way. Despite needing assistance with the basics of technology, Deborah helped her. When she needed to understand terms, Deborah took the time she needed to provide Allie with the information to assist her. “I didn’t feel like I was being rushed or burdened, which is not what a lot of people exercise nowadays. It was very refreshing getting to know her and knowing that I will be working with her to hopefully become a homeowner soon. I feel better equipped and more adequate when I talk to her. She is an asset to your company.”- Allie, 2024 pre-purchase homeownership client.
