AZ Giving Spotlight on Carole Kauffman of NHS Phoenix

Neighborhood Housing Services of Phoenix is dedicated to the revitalization of Phoenix neighborhoods by providing a full range of programs and services to encourage, create and support home ownership. Here, AFM interviews Carole Kauffman, the Vice President and Director of Development of NHS Phoenix.

AFM: Tell us a little more about NHS Phoenix.

CK: We are a non-profit organization whose mission can be described as 'we teach, we build, we learn.' For the past 38 years we have been promoting stable homes and communities by providing housing education, financial lessons, and building single-family homes. Since we are also a mortgage bank, we offer flexible mortgages and other assistance in the payments home-ownership entails.

AFM: Who are your services provided for?

CK: We are dedicated to helping hardworking individuals become financially-stable homeowners through pre-purchase housing counseling and education to help get individuals on the path to home-ownership. Our clients are persevering people who make 80% below the area medium income, which in 2013 in Maricopa County was around $62,200. We build affordable homes in residential subdivisions close to work, school, and public transportation. NHS Phoenix also offers flexible mortgage programs with low interest rates and down payment and closing cost assistance.

AFM: What is the Home Sweet Home Gingerbread House Show and Auction?

CK: A home takes on special meaning during the holidays, a time when stability and comfort and family gatherings are so important. Our Fourth Annual Home Sweet Home Gingerbread House Show and Auction is an event on December 7th that raises money for the programs and services that we offer in order to support first-time homebuyers or those who are struggling to stay in their homes. This event is by ticket only, and offers drinks, treats, and a raffle, in addition to the Gingerbread House Show. In order for it to be a success, we are looking for people who love to bake and are excited about creating an original gingerbread house! They do not have to be experienced bakers, but inspired people who would love to give back to their communities. From local artists, business owners, scout troops, to chefs and architects together featured more than three-dozen crafted homes last year.

AFM: Where can people find more information and sign up for the event?

CK: You can go to our registration page here at NHSPhoenix.org. These gingerbread houses are featured in our free public showing from December 2 to December 6, and the auction is on December 7. Anyone who would like to support this cause is welcome to buy a ticket and participate in a fun, holiday-themed event to give back to Phoenix communities.

For more information on NHS Phoenix please click here.