The New York Housing Conference (NYHC) and the National Housing Conference (NHC) hosted the 37th Annual Awards Luncheon, one of the largest gatherings of housing professionals in the nation, on Thursday, December 9, 2010 in Manhattan.
Alfred A. Dellibovi, President of Federal Home Loan Banks of New York, served as Luncheon Chairman and helped raise a record breaking $600,000. Michael Bloomberg, New York City Mayor, provided opening video remarks and Rafael Cestero, Commissioner of the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development, gave special remarks on the importance of affordable housing.
This annual fundraising event, underwritten by corporate sponsor Bank of America Merrill Lynch, honors those who have made New York a better place to live and work.
As the big tent representing the full spectrum of the housing industry, NHC convenes thought leaders and helps educate policy makers on vital reforms so that all in America have a safe, decent and affordable place to call home. Housing is a vital component to our nation’s economy and a stabilizing force for families and communities. The money raised at this year’s luncheon is pertinent to NHC’s goals of moving affordable housing to a first tier issue on the national agenda and further developing and growing our advocacy efforts in line with our five policy priorities.
This year’s honorees are:
• Clara Fox Award for Outstanding Achievement:
William R. Frey, Senior Vice President and Eastern Region Executive, Enterprise Community Partners, Inc.
• Private Developer of the Year: The Bluestone Organization
• Nonprofit Developer of the Year: F•E•G•S Health and Human Services System
• Public Service Award: Marc Jahr, President, New York City Housing Development Corporation
• Special Recognition was given to the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York on the 20th Anniversary of its Affordable Housing Program.
Four policy symposiums were held prior to the event and included panels on tax credits, green development financing, affordable housing post midterm elections and government funding options.
The Luncheon provides essential support for NYHC’s and NHC’s housing policies and programs in New York City, Albany and Washington, DC. These programs are vital to develop and maintain affordable housing for all New Yorkers.