In line with our mission to end the #racialwealthgap, we created our First-Time Homebuyers Program (FHP) to support CEF Members in Orange and Durham counties as they build wealth and stability through home-ownership.
We believe our Members making under 50% AMI should have a fair shot at building generational wealth. We also want to set our Members up for success. Because of external income and stability requirements by mortgage lenders and affordable homeownership organizations, within a process that has been shaped and gatekept by racialized capitalism, not every CEF Member who applies to our program will be accepted.
This has been a hard decision for CEF to make. We urgently implore local, state, and federal bodies to make radical strides toward removing any and all barriers to deeply affordable home-ownership for very low and fixed-income community members.
Until then, CEF aims to empower eligible Members with knowledge and tools they need to buy their first home.
Financial assistance with downpayment and closing costs
Thanks to @chapelhillgov and Metlife Insurance, Upon completion of our FHP, CEF Members are eligible for 2:1 savings match in Chapel Hill, and a 3:1 savings match in Durham County, up to $2,000. So, Members buying a home in the Town of Chapel Hill can have up to $6,000 to put toward down-payment and closing costs, and Members buying in Durham can have up to $8,000.
We are grateful to our funders for working to alleviate one of the biggest barriers to homeownership: the upfront costs associated with buying a home.
Want more information? Check out our screening and interest form, linked at: tinyurl.com/FHP2024
Join us in bringing hope and dignity to those in need
Join our donation drive to provide crucial essentials to individuals facing housing insecurity in our community. Your contribution can make a lasting impact by offering comfort and support to those who need it most. Together, we can make a difference. Donate today and help change lives for the better.
What You Can Donate:
Socks
Deodorant
Toothpaste
Toothbrushes
Travel Shampoo/ Conditioner
Sanitary Supplies
Menstrual Products (pads & tampons)
Adult Diapers (men & women)
Baby Wipes
First Aid Kits
Bottled Water
Suncreen
Drop Off Point: CEF CH Office 208 N Columbia St Suite 100, Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Join us in celebrating our CEF Members for Financial Independence Day!
You are invited to CEF’s annual Financial Independence Day, Saturday, July 13th from 3:00pm to 5:00pm at the CEF Chapel Hill Office (208 N Columbia St Suite 100, Chapel Hill, NC 27514)
The purpose of Financial Independence Day is to honor all of the hard work that CEF Members are putting in to achieve financial stability and independence.
Join us for a community cookout with fun activities to acknowledge and celebrate the fight for freedom from financial burden.
A collaborative effort between CEF Staff and Summer ‘24 Interns
As CEF wraps up our yearly observation of PRIDE month, it’s vital to acknowledge that economic disparities persist for the LGBTQIA+ community, exacerbated by discrimination in employment, housing, and healthcare.
It is most crucial to acknowledge the intersecting economic challenges faced by LGBTQ people of color. A “wealth gap” refers to disparities in wealth between different groups, stemming from historical and systemic inequalities. For example, the “racial wealth gap” pertains to economic disparities between different racial and ethnic groups. The “LGBTQ wealth gap” pertains to economic disparities based on sexual orientation and gender identity. For individuals who are both LGBTQ and racial minorities, these gaps compound, exacerbating economic disparity.
Age is another factor that contributes to disparity within the LGBTQ community. The National Colaition For the Homeless reports LGBTQ youth are 120% more likely to experience homelessness than non-LGBTQ youth. The National Network For Youth found that up to 40% of the 4.2 million youth in the US experiencing homelessness identify as LGBTQ, despite being only 9.8% of the youth population.
The AARP found that LGBTQ Elders living in less LGBTQ friendly communites are 700% more likely to experience housing discrimination tied to their identities. 34% of LGBTQ Elders — and 54% of transgender Elders — reported being worried about having to hide their identity to access senior housing.
For LGBTQ+ adults living with a disability, risk of both poverty and unemployment is further compounded. LGBTQ people are 10-20% more likely to be disabled than their non-LGBTQ peers. The Williams Institute found that LGBTQ men with disabilities are roughly 86% more likely to live in poverty than LGBTQ men without disabilities. Likewise, LGBTQ women were about 78% more likely to live in poverty than LGBTQ+ women without disabilities.
Still, structural racism combined with systemic anti-LGBTQ discrimination leads to the most extreme negative outcomes, especially for Black LGBTQ people. We cannot talk about the compounding disparities faced by Black members of the LGBTQ+ community without defining the concepts of misogynoir and transmisogynoir. Both terms are rooted in the concept of intersectionality, which addresses how various social identities such as race, gender, class, and sexual orientation interrelate in systems of oppression.Coined by Black feminist writer Moya Bailey, misogynoir is a term to describe the combined force of anti-Black racism and misogyny Black cisgender women experience under white supremacy and patriarchy. Transmisogynoir is an extension of the word, to include the added oppression of cissexism experienced by Black trans feminine people. Transmisogynoir manifests most commonly as hate-fueled, and often fatal, gender-based violence.
Regardless of gender identity, the National LGBTQ Taskforce found that Black transgender and gender non-conforming (GNC) people face unconscionable levels of discrimination. Black transgender and GNC people have an extremely high unemployment rate, up to 26%. Black transgender and GNC people often live in extreme poverty, with 34% reporting a household income of less than $10,000/year. 41% of Black transgender and GNC people have experienced homelessness, 47% have experienced incarceration, and 50% reported being forced to participate in the underground economy for income, including sex work and drug sales.
Extreme economic disparity for Black trans and GNC members of the LGBTQIA+ community persists as a critical issue that demands immediate attention. This disparity is further compounded by pervasive (and growing) anti-LGBTQ sentiment. Moving forward, it is imperative to advocate for inclusive policies that combat systemic discrimination and ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities for LGBTQ individuals, particularly those facing intersectional marginalizations. By actively supporting these efforts and fostering a culture of acceptance, we can collectively strive towards a future where every member of the LGBTQIA+ community thrives and enjoys opportunities for success and prosperity!
Meet Chloe Wells, Advocate Program Coordinator (CH)
Chloe Wells, Advocate Program Coordinator (CH)
Your Role: In your own words, how would you describe the work you do at the CEF and why is it important?
At CEF, I hold the role of the ‘Advocate Program Coordinator’ (APC). This title generously encapsulates my responsibilities of coordinating, supervising, and providing support to our volunteer Advocates in their impactful endeavors.
Your Background: What experiences, strengths, and skills do you bring to this work at CEF?
I bring a wealth of experiences to my role, ranging from my time as a ‘front office lady’ at a high school to my roles as a Teacher’s Assistant, Peer DEI Educator, Resident Advisor, and Co-Editor in Chief of an undergraduate literary magazine. I have acquired valuable skills and strengths through these diverse experiences, shaping my unique perspective and approach.
Connecting to CEF: What led you to working with CEF generally, and also to this particular role?
As a member of the undergraduate class of 2020, the Pandemic tossed aside my plans, along with those of many peers, for post-graduate-real-adult life. Nevertheless, I firmly believe that everything happens for a reason, and I strive to embrace the notion that I am where I am meant to be at any given moment. Upon deciding to leave my previous role and relocate to the area with my partner, currently enrolled as a Graduate Student at UNC Chapel Hill, I was determined to find a path that allowed me to make a tangible impact on my community. Drawing from my academic passions as a student, I sought to apply them in a real-world setting. My aspiration was to join an organization that fostered creativity, embraced my love for learning, and promoted genuine relationship building, community engagement, and anti-racism at every level. I believe I have found the perfect fit!
Energy: When you think about your work in this role at CEF (and/or in general at CEF) where do you find energy and renewal?
When I reflect on my work in this role at CEF, I draw energy and renewal from our person-centered approach. Our primary focus is on the individual, regardless of who they are or what they bring to the table. This person-centered ethos resonates deeply with me, especially in my interactions with Members and Advocates. I derive immense joy from connecting with our Advocate community, where we have a supportive space to lean on, learn from, and celebrate each other’s successes. Together, we navigate challenging days, uplift each other through laughter and continuous curiosity, and collaboratively devise solutions. Being part of a community where we can openly address our needs, capacity, and well-being fills me with pride, energy, and profound gratitude.
Challenge: When you think about your work in this role at CEF (and/or in general at CEF) where do you find challenges and how do you seek to find the best way forward?
In all honesty, navigating anti-racist, justice-focused community work within the confines of oppressive systems like white supremacy culture presents a myriad of challenges. It’s hardly surprising, considering the extensive lists of obstacles we encounter daily within our CEF community. Thus, I find that the most daunting aspect of my role at times is simply ensuring that everyone feels empowered to engage with the supportive community that CEF has fostered. This involves ensuring that individuals feel capable of supporting others whose experiences may differ from their own, feeling supported enough to actively participate both mentally and physically, and ensuring that each Advocate feels valued and acknowledged. It’s about ensuring that they are equipped to advocate for themselves as well. To all Advocates reading this, know that you are deeply appreciated!
Etc: Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Outside of my role as APC, I thoroughly enjoy spending quality time with my partner, whether it’s at home or exploring new places. I’m currently immersed in creating Spotify playlists, particularly delving into the new-wave funk and disco movements. Exploring culinary delights at new restaurants, discovering hiking trails both nearby and across the state, and preparing meals for my loved ones are some of my cherished activities. I find solace in browsing through local bookstores, especially in search of the latest horror releases and cryptic creature-features. I strongly advocate for the importance of outdoor play and seize any opportunity to indulge myself. Although I appreciate thoughtful cuisine, if I had to pick a favorite food, it would undoubtedly be french fries. Or perhaps ice cream. When I’m up for it, I love attending drag shows, hitting the dance floor with friends, and engaging in spirited competition at local trivia nights!
CEF is saddened by the passing of one of our 2023 Black Queens, Carolyn Suitt. She was a joy and light to her family and community. Rest in power, Black Queen with your beautiful crown.
CEF Chapel Hill is offering both full and part time internship positions for our 10 week summer program. Interns will complete a training “boot camp” and therefore no prior experience with our organization is required to apply. A great applicant for this position would be someone who is committed to anti-racism and housing first efforts, dedicated to direct service work, and passionate about the prosperity of all folks who are part of our community.
This application will be open until March 8th, 2024 at 11:59 PM. More information regarding the internship can be found within the application via a linked job description. Any further questions or concerns can be directed to chloew@communityef.org.
Sophia Thayer, Member Services Coordinator (Durham)
Your Role: In your own words, how would you describe the work you do at the CEF and why is it important?
As the Member Services Coordinator for the Durham office, I work alongside Members and external community partners and service providers, as well as Advocates and staff, to research, develop, and implement relevant resources for Members. Most of the resources center on access to housing, and other crucial elements folks need to thrive. I also help lead New Member Orientation and our food pantry.
Your Background: What experiences, strengths, and skills do you bring to this work at CEF?
My background is in case management, resource navigation, youth development, and food justice. Beyond this background, I try to be as authentic as possible and meet people where they’re coming from. I strive to always be learning and challenge myself to consistently check how my biases affect my perception of experiences and events. Overall, I believe I am an approachable and personable individual hoping to form long term relationships.
Connecting to CEF: What led you to working with CEF generally, and also to this particular role?
CEF’s commitment to justice and equity is what initially drew me to the organization. CEF’s belief that everyone is creative, resourceful, and whole resonates with me and is the basis of the Member-driven work we all do together. In my role as MSC, I attempt to provide a starting point for Members and Advocates to connect. Witnessing and taking part in human connection is a joy that CEF provides and values.
Energy: When you think about your work in this role at CEF (and/or in general at CEF) where do you find energy and renewal?
At CEF, I find energy in relationships – deep conversations about experiences and stressors, celebrations when someone reaches their goal, and connections over a shared favorite. Outside of CEF, I find energy in very similar ways by spending time with loved ones.
Challenge: When you think about your work in this role at CEF (and/or in general at CEF) where do you find challenges and how do you seek to find the best way forward?
CEF and our Members, Advocates, and staff still live and function within systems that are set up for some people to fail and some to thrive. Systemic racism and capitalism are massive opponents. Sometimes, no matter how much work we put in, we cannot solve a problem. I think the way we move forward is first recognizing that the CEF model of long-term community is radical in itself. Secondly, we can utilize this community power to break down systemic barriers as best we can.
2022 was a tremendous year for CEF! Our work was recognized both locally and nationally as we received the highest score on the City of Durham’s American Rescue Plan request for proposals and were honored with GSK’s IMPACT Award and Bank of America’s Neighborhood Builders Award. We were also selected as one of ten organizations to participate in Common Future’s 2023 Accelerator program, which will support our work to expand the first-time homebuyer program (see pg. 4). These recognitions demonstrate the importance of CEF’s work, especially as Members continue to recover from financial hardships related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In addition to recognition for our work, we also invested time and resources into creating a guide for the next five years. CEF’s new Strategic Plan was created with input from more than 65 community partners, Members, staff, board, and volunteer Advocates. We are so excited to share the plan with you.
As we reflect on 2022, we will share stories using our new strategic framework (see pg. 5) as a guide. You will hear from Members about the importance of CEF being a strong & adaptable organization and how impactful organizing and advocacy affects their lives. You will also learn about some emerging programs that respond to Member needs and requests, and how CEF is investing in building a joyful community.
CEF continues to focus on relationship-based care, with Member/Advocate meetings as the primary way for CEF Members to receive support. The Strategic Plan did not change CEF’s commitment to cultivating opportunities, assets, and communities that support the alleviation of homelessness and poverty–but, rather, it helped us hone in on what is important for CEF to be doing vs. what community partners and other service organizations can do to best support CEF Members. Thank you for being part of this journey with us and trusting us to do the work necessary to best support Members in our quest to end the racial wealth gap and empower the community.
