Housing Virginia and the Hampton Roads Housing Consortium (HRHC) have teamed up on a workshop to help affordable housing providers, local government, and advocates with their efforts in overcoming opposition to their projects and policies. Often referred to as NIMBY-ism (Not in My Backyard), NIMBY-ism is the negative reaction to change by community residents and businesses. In the case of affordable housing, it is often caused by misperception, fear and mistrust.

The tools for overcoming NIMBY-ism include transparent communication, dispelling myths with facts, and finding community supporters who understand the benefits that quality housing can bring to their neighborhood. This half day training opportunity aims to provide tools and techniques to help win project support.

What Can You Expect from the Training?

• Stakeholder identification & analysis
• Using data: where to find it and how to present it
• Incorporating compelling materials for success
• Incorporating the right media outreach
• Developing an action plan
• Communication strategies
• Ensuring transparency through good neighbor relations
• Interactive mapping exercise
• Take-home workbook to implement new skills

“Housing Virginia has been an effective partner specializing in providing the best tools and training to the ones on the ground doing the hard work of producing safe, decent and affordable housing,” said Shernita Bethea, HRHC board member and HRPDC Housing and Human Services Administrator.