On Tuesday, August 29, 2006 the Jefferson Affordable Housing Initiative announced a half-million dollar endowment to the Alabama Housing Authorities Education and Enrichment Fund, Inc. ("Fund"). This exciting news brought the crowd of 400 participants attending the Scholarship Luncheon during the 66th Annual Meeting of the Alabama Association of Housing and Redevelopment Authorities (AAHRA) to their feet, with roars of applause and appreciation.

Jefferson County Assisted Housing Corporation CEO, Eric Strong gives the background and history of the joint venture between his organization and the Jefferson County Housing Authority.

The Jefferson Affordable Housing Initiative is the result of a Joint Venture formed between the Jefferson County Housing Authority and the Jefferson County Assisted Housing Corporation (JCAHC) to carry out Performance Based Section 8 Contract Administration activities in Alabama, Mississippi, Virginia and Connecticut. The joint venture is giving back to the community by using proceeds to carry out affordable housing projects and programs in all 4 states.

The "Fund" is a nonprofit organization formed by AAHRA that raises money throughout the year to provide scholarships to residents assisted by Alabama Public Housing Agencies. Its Officers and Board of Directors are comprised of Alabama Public Housing leaders and staff. The "Fund" scholarships are used to obtain trade skills or may be used for higher education.

"This very generous contribution will help those living in Alabama's Public Housing developments and with assistance through Section 8 and Housing Vouchers, seek the training and education they might not otherwise be able to afford" commented Cindy Yarbrough, Birmingham HUD Field Office Director.

Jefferson County Assisted Housing Corporation Board Chairman, Bob Sellers announces the $500,000 endowment to the Alabama Housing Authorities Education and Enrichment Fund, Inc.

"It was a thrill to see six years of hard work by some 85 employees come to fruition with the presentation of a $500,000 check to the Fund", said JCAHC CEO Eric Strong. "Interest earned from the endowment should fund a dozen or so scholarships annually for residents of public housing and Section 8 in the state of Alabama. Education and job training is the key to improving the lives of our residents, and over the next 20 years, these scholarships will help hundreds of residents and families."

Scholarship Winners for 2006 are Kimberly Rhimes and Joann Lynn Kamman - Anniston Housing Authority; Beverly Barber, Emily White and Tondra Venson - Dothan Housing Authority; Aspen Owens - Bessemer Housing Authority; Cassandra Jernigan, Jackie Walker and Sharon Williams - Eufaula Housing Authority; Angela Jackson - Mobile Housing Board; and Shawanna Wright - Elba Housing Authority.

Thanks to the Jefferson Affordable Housing Initiative through the Jefferson County Assisted Housing Corporation and Jefferson County Housing Authority, even more HUD-assisted residents will benefit and be provided opportunities to move to self-sufficiency.