The Coalition for Home Repair Announces 14th Annual ReFrame Community Event

The Coalition for Home Repair announces its 14th Annual ReFrame Conference, set to take place on November 12th to 15th at the Westin Southfield Detroit, with the theme "Revving Up Home Repair for Resilient Communities." This event aligns with the premier nonprofit organization's mission of promoting and supporting home repair and rehabilitation efforts nationwide. 

The setting for this year's annual conference reflects the Coalition's commitment to extending its reach and impact from the Appalachian State of Tennessee and beyond. Detroit's rich history of innovation and ongoing revitalization efforts make it an ideal setting for the conference. Its urban neighborhoods and single-family homes present a compelling case for addressing urgent home repair needs on a national scale. The Coalition invites homeowners from Detroit to the stage to amplify their voices and include them in the decision-making processes for the rehabilitation plans for their homes. 

Freyja Harris, the Executive Director, explained, "From this point forward we will host our yearly events in different cities because we want to put the spotlight on communities in need of home repair and rehabilitation. Doing so also allows us to share their narratives to funders and legislators who could help our cause." With this, attendees eagerly anticipate the opportunity to explore new perspectives, engage with fresh voices, and build connections in a bustling setting.  

Attendees of the 14th Annual ReFrame Conference can expect a lineup of sessions designed to help them acquire the knowledge and tools they need to address home repair challenges effectively. The conference covers various topics, such as best practices in repair and construction and insights into nonprofit management.  

One focus area of the conference is building a skilled volunteer pool, which is essential for nonprofits operating in rural settings where resources may be scarce. Sessions revolving around this topic delve into strategies for recruiting and retaining volunteers and navigating grant funding and administration. They also include insights into federal grant opportunities. 

The conference also addresses broader issues surrounding home repairs, such as public health implications and the impact of repair interventions on household dynamics. It highlights the importance of leveraging information for advocacy and policy change. This is set to empower attendees to make appealing cases for increased funding and support. 

"This year, we're introducing two new components to enhance the attendee experience while addressing the needs in the field. For the first time, there will be a pre-conference session specifically targeting homeowner beneficiaries. We aim to provide valuable insights into post-repair maintenance and help them learn how to ensure the longevity of repair interventions. There will also be a guided tour of Detroit's revitalized neighborhoods. Attendees will be able to see the outcomes of ongoing repair and renovation efforts this way," Harris shared.  

The 14th Annual ReFrame Conference welcomes attendees from various sectors and disciplines who share the same interest in home repair and affordable housing preservation. The Coalition opens its doors to individuals and organizations from a similar landscape, like those involved in affordable rental advocacy.  

This year, it is doubling its efforts in encouraging homeowners to attend to become more aware of the resources and support available to them. In addition, the conference appeals to a broader audience interested in understanding and addressing housing challenges. It is also bound to attract professionals from health and social service fields who encounter housing issues firsthand while providing care to vulnerable populations. The involvement of these professionals in the conference would bridge the gap between healthcare and housing. 

The 14th Annual ReFrame Conference serves as a platform to exchange ideas, encourage collaboration, and drive positive change in home repair and rehabilitation. It contributes to the movement toward nurturing resilient communities nationwide.