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Meet the Host
Marietta Rodriguez
President & CEO
NeighborWorks America
Marietta Rodriguez is the President & CEO of NeighborWorks America, but she started out just like many of you – a first-time homebuyer needing a little guidance. After experiencing the power of community support firsthand, she dedicated her career to helping others achieve their homeownership dreams.
Now, she is in charge of creating innovative solutions for affordable housing, economic opportunity, and thriving communities. Named one of the NonProfit Times' Top 50 Power & Influence leaders, Marietta is a true champion for change, and she's here to share her passion and expertise with you on The Community Effect podcast.
Episode Notes and Summary
Season 1: Episode 1
Laying Out the Blueprint: This is NeighborWorks America
How can we create equitable pathways to homeownership and build stronger communities? Join the conversation with Marietta Rodriguez, Joanie Straussman Brandon, and Steve Tuminaro as they explore the past, present, and future of community development.
Release Date: October 9, 2024
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Season 1: Episode 2
Thriving Together: Comprehensive Community Development
Discover how this resident-driven approach fosters collaboration, builds strong partnerships, and promotes equity to create lasting change. Hear inspiring success stories and gain valuable insights into the future of community development. Join Marietta Rodriguez and Elizabeth Druback Celaya as they delve into the power of Comprehensive Community Development (CCD). Don't forget to check out the Case Studies Elizabeth mentioned during the episode!
Release Date: October 23, 2024
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Season 1: Episode 3
Turning the Key: Bridging the Wealth Gap in Homeownership
Navigating the path to homeownership can be challenging, especially in today's market. In this episode of The Community Effect, Marietta Rodriguez and Jason Peterson delve into the hurdles first-time homebuyers face, including rising costs and racial disparities. Discover how NeighborWorks provides vital resources like down payment assistance programs and financial counseling to empower individuals and families on their journey to homeownership.
Release Date: November 5, 2024
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Season 1: Episode 4 
Dreams to Deeds: Real People, Real Homeownership Stories
Homeownership can transform lives and communities. This episode of "The Community Effect" explores the challenges and opportunities surrounding homeownership. Learn how organizations like Housing Resources Inc. provide vital support and advocacy to make this dream a reality for more people.
BONUS - Hear from Lawanda Chambers from Housing Resources Inc. about her inspiring personal journey to becoming a homeowner.
Release Date: December 4, 2024
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Season 1: Episode 5 
The Future Now: Forecasting Strategies for Community Building and Affordable Housing in 2025 and Beyond (Part 1)
In this insightful episode of The Community Effect, host Marietta Rodriguez, President & CEO of NeighborWorks America, is joined by Chris Herbert from the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies and Michael Butchko of NeighborWorks America to explore the trends and challenges shaping the future of housing and community development. Reflecting on 2024’s milestones, they discuss the growing affordability crisis, innovative policy responses, and NeighborWorks’ impactful initiatives, including partnerships and training programs. Tune in to gain valuable insights and strategies to navigate the complexities of 2025, and don’t miss Part 2 for a deeper dive into NeighborWorks' strategic vision for lasting change.
Release Date: January 15, 2025
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Season 1: Episode 6 
The Future Now: Forecasting Strategies for Community Building and Affordable Housing in 2025 and Beyond (Part 2)
In the second installment of “The Future Now,” Marietta Rodriguez continues her conversation with Chris Herbert of the Harvard Joint Center on Housing and Michael Butchko of NeighborWorks America. They discuss NeighborWorks’ new strategic plan, the pressing need for affordable housing, and emerging innovations in supply, financing, and cross-sector partnerships. From social housing to modular construction and shared equity, the episode explores what’s next for housing and community development in 2025 and beyond.
Release Date: January 29, 2025
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Season 1: Episode 7 
Building Community and Opportunity: A Conversation with Darryl Smith
In the second installment of “The Future Now,” Marietta Rodriguez continues her conversation with Chris Herbert of the Harvard Joint Center on Housing and Michael Butchko of NeighborWorks America. They discuss NeighborWorks’ new strategic plan, the pressing need for affordable housing, and emerging innovations in supply, financing, and cross-sector partnerships. From social housing to modular construction and shared equity, the episode explores what’s next for housing and community development in 2025 and beyond.
Release Date: February 12, 2025
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Want to get in contact with us?
To reach a member of the Community Effect team, please contact us by email at [email protected].
This Podcast is Produced by NeighborWorks America©
