It’s been a minute since we did staff highlights, 2 years in fact. A lot has changed since our last post so we thought it would be fitting to start another staff highlight series to let you know what we’ve been up to! First up, is none other than our words connoisseur, Director of Communications & Stakeholder Engagement, Jennifer McCarron!
What is your role with AHC and how has it evolved over the years?
I am AHC’s director of communications and stakeholder engagement. My role has changed quite a bit over the years. As home prices began to increase in Calgary over recent years, we were driven to find ways we could offer homeownership at prices lower than what’s available through our down payment assistance program. To do so, requires government assistance. Since AHC began in 2009 (November marks our 14th birthday by the way!), we have proudly operated independently without government financial support. But, if we want to have a deeper impact on affordability, we’re going to need assistance. My job now involves liaising with government representatives as we attempt to seek funding wherever we can find it. Last, we are working to create more of our own housing stock in many areas of the city. My role now involves engaging with the various stakeholders connected to developments. It’s my job to ensure neighbours understand that AHC builds quality communities while providing the affordability so desperately needed in Calgary.
What excites you the most about being a part of the AHC team?
Working with a team of people who deeply care about the hundreds of people who register with our program each month! Every person on our team knows Calgary is in a housing crisis and we are motivated by this every day.
What are your thoughts on AHC introducing a new rental program and our vision for the next 5 years?
I think many of our colleagues in the non-profit housing sector are likely surprised to hear that we will be offering rental housing; I don’t blame them, we’ve been an attainable homeownership organization for 14 years! I don’t think there’s anything wrong with expanding as the need presents itself. The explanation is easy. Construction costs have skyrocketed and because we operate without government subsidy, we need to cover our costs. If we sold apartment condominiums for the amount they cost to construct, our clients wouldn’t be able to afford them! But, through an attainable rental model, they work and they will help. Homes are needed in Calgary, through ownership and rental. If, over the next five years, we can provide homes below nearby market rental rates, we will help to fill a growing void in Calgary’s housing continuum.
What are you hidden talents?
I can blow bubbles off the end of my tongue. What a “talent”!
If you could have one superpower what would it be?
Definitely flight. I’d like to travel the world, but without the cost and carbon footprint of airplanes!
Stay tuned for our next staff highlight!
