Part Two of Katie's conversation with Carmen Romero dives deeper into APAH's innovative partnerships with local churches to create affordable housing opportunities. Carmen shares details on their recently opened Central United Methodist Church project, co-locating 144 affordable homes with a new church facility, daycare center, and commercial kitchen. You'll hear the powerful story of how this church partnership extended beyond just the real estate transaction, providing critical support like rent relief for residents impacted by the pandemic. Carmen emphasizes the incredible mission alignment and community impact when affordable housing nonprofits collaborate with congregations. The discussion then turns to APAH's bold new strategic plan goals, including tripling their portfolio to 7,500 units within four years to meet the region's daunting affordable housing deficit. Carmen outlines their focus on scaling resident services, piloting programs to break cycles of poverty through savings matches and college funds, and advocating for policies addressing the true scope of need. You'll gain insight into APAH's priorities around being an "employer of choice" by supporting their team's mental health and compensation in this high-stress field. Throughout, Carmen shares her candid perspective on the urgency required and on innovating sustainable solutions as the affordable housing crisis deepens across the region. Tune in for this inspiring example of a nonprofit taking an expansive, holistic approach to the affordable housing challenge.