2016-2017 Annual Report

FROM OUR PRESIDENT:
November 28, 2017

As I write this letter, I can’t help but reflect on what an incredibly busy and exciting year we had at HACE.

Throughout fiscal year 2017 (July 1, 2016-June 30, 2017), our staff has been committed to fulfilling the mission of the organization to improving the quality of life for our residents and improving the economic landscape of our neighborhoods. They have worked tirelessly to save homes from foreclosures, provide assistance to avoid utility shut offs, assist small businesses thrive in our corridors, engage residents to get involved in the community rebuilding process, increase homeownership opportunities and preserve affordable rental housing for families. HACE is great because of the hard work and dedication of our Board of Directors and Staff.

One significant accomplishment was the adoption of the Good Lands 2025 Neighborhood Plan by the Planning Commission of the City of Philadelphia. We are very proud that the plan was used in the development of the North District Plan, a component of the City of Philadelphia’s 2025 Plan, and for the development of a comprehensive strategy for addressing the many years of disinvestment along the Conrail viaduct and Gurney Street—an area that has been staggering from crime, drug sales and homelessness.

Another exciting accomplishment was being awarded $750,000 from the Wells Fargo Regional Foundation to implement the first five-years of the Good Lands 2025 Neighborhood Development Plan, representing a new stage in what has been a highly productive partnership between HACE and the Foundation. When the partnership began in 2004, the goal was to stem the deterioration of the area by developing focused zones of investment and safety. After 20 years of work, now the goal is to continue in the transformation of the Fairhill and St. Hugh Neighborhoods to protect investments realized and attract new public and private investments.

As we look to the future, HACE is committed to continuing its mission for developing healthy, vibrant and sustainable neighborhoods. Everything we are able to do is because of the truly remarkable support of our funders, supporters, elected officials, volunteers, corporate partners, community based organizations, and partners like you.

On behalf of the Board of Directors and Staff, thank you for your commitment and support to HACE and our mission.

Sincerely,

President