Wrapping Up 2024 and Building Momentum for 2025

Dear Readers,

As we approach the end of 2024, I’m reminded of the incredible journey we’ve taken together this year. From groundbreaking discussions and impactful stories to the launch of key initiatives, this newsletter is not just a wrap-up—it’s a testament to the progress we’ve made and the exciting foundation we’re building for the future. While this issue highlights some key moments, it’s just a glimpse of the work that has set the stage for a transformative 2025.

Exclusive Stories Coming Soon

Two investigative stories are on the horizon:

1. Affordable Housing Accessibility Issues: Reports have surfaced about ongoing accessibility challenges in a Chicago high-rise affordable housing development. Residents, including those reliant on wheelchairs, have faced repeated disruptions due to elevator outages, leading to difficult and sometimes undignified solutions. Residents has shared their experiences over the past year, shedding light on a situation that highlights the intersection of infrastructure and tenant well-being. Before publishing the full story, I’ve committed to speaking with leadership to ensure all perspectives are considered. Stay tuned for more on this developing issue.
2. A Heartbreaking Christmas Without Her Children: The holiday season can be a time of joy and togetherness, but for one mother, it’s a stark reminder of what’s missing: her children. Despite her best efforts and a long battle within the child welfare system, her case remains unresolved, leaving her family separated during a time meant for connection and love. This story sheds light on the human side of systemic challenges—where policies and processes can inadvertently keep families apart. While I continue to investigate the broader implications of this case, my focus right now is on the resilience of this mother and her hope for a reunion in the coming year.

These stories are still under investigation and will be published in early 2025. Stay tuned for these impactful exclusives.

Recap: Sanford Health Rural Summit

The Sanford Health Rural Summit provided valuable insights into how technology, particularly telehealth, is transforming rural healthcare. However, the key takeaway for me was the undeniable connection between housing and health.

Housing is a critical social determinant of health. While telehealth has made it easier for rural residents to access care, the root causes often lie in environmental factors, including inadequate housing. Moving forward, healthcare and housing must collaborate to address these systemic challenges. Partnerships between the healthcare sector and housing advocates could drive meaningful improvements in rural health outcomes.

Extended Stay Living: A Crisis to Address

Extended stay motels and hotels are often a last resort for families facing housing instability. Beyond being prohibitively expensive, these environments have become breeding grounds for crime, discrimination, and health concerns.

Living in such conditions poses significant risks, particularly for children and vulnerable adults. Issues like overcrowding, lack of proper nutrition, and exposure to unsafe environments demand urgent attention. This is an issue I plan to focus on extensively in 2025, and I invite policymakers and advocates to join me in addressing this growing crisis.

2025 Focus: Team Building

As I look to 2025, my theme is clear: team building. Previously, the process for appointing board members to the Apartment and Housing Rentals Foundation (AHRF) was closed, but in the spirit of collaboration and growth, I am now opening it to welcome fresh perspectives and expertise.

Board Member Responsibilities

• Governance: Provide oversight to ensure AHRF operates ethically and effectively.
• Fundraising: Contribute to or help raise funds to support our programs.
• Strategic Guidance: Shape the direction of AHRF’s initiatives, including eviction prevention, housing affordability, tenant advocacy, and community development.
• Advocacy: Champion AHRF’s mission in your networks and communities.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience in housing policy, finance, law, or nonprofit management.
• Commitment to supporting underserved communities.
• Ability to dedicate time to quarterly board meetings and ongoing initiatives.

Mission Statement The Apartment and Housing Rentals Foundation Inc (AHRF) is dedicated to promoting housing stability through innovative solutions in eviction prevention, housing affordability, tenant advocacy, and community development. We empower tenants by fostering strong unions, supporting families through programs like the DCFS Parent Advocacy initiative, and creating sustainable developments that uplift communities.

If you or someone you know is interested in joining this effort, please reach out.

Lashondra Graves Enterprises (LGE): Consulting for Change

At Lashondra Graves Enterprises LLC (LGE), we’re committed to partnering with federal, state, and local governments, NGOs, and advocates to create innovative housing solutions. From consulting on the Neighborhood Sustainability Framework to developing programs like Rentcurity, which offers rental concierge services for short- and long-term housing worldwide, LGE is positioned to drive transformative change.

If you’re looking for a consultant or partner for your housing projects, I’m here to collaborate.

A Note of Thanks

As we wrap up this year, I want to thank you for your continued support and engagement. Your voices and insights inspire the work I do. Together, we can make 2025 a year of growth, collaboration, and meaningful impact.

Stay tuned for more updates and exclusives, and I look forward to connecting with you in the new year.

Warm regards, Lashondra Graves The Apartment Lady?? Founder, Apartment and Housing Rentals Foundation CEO, Lashondra Graves Enterprises LLC