The National Association of Developmental Organizations honoring UCDD for its construction of transitional housing in Carthage and Smithville.
Executive Director Mark Farley said the award recognizes developmental district projects considered forward-thinking. Farley said the district’s work assures vulnerable demographics in the community can regain stability.
“People in recovery, or senior population, or disabled population. Anytime we can lead the way and try to make sure they have a good quality of life, and are successful in this life,” Farley said. “I’m very proud of the work that we do, especially when we are touching a group of citizens who need a little extra help to get back on their feet.”
Farley said the organization wants to build additional transitional housing across the Upper Cumberland, looking at specific counties of need.
“What we want to do is look at the statistics that are out there in our region,” Farley said. “Identify gaps in services, areas where there are no transitional homes, and see if we can just kinda step in and fill that.”
Farley said further funding is needed to grow the program. Farley said grants fund the program. Farley said the organization is looking into state and federal grants.
Farley said real estate plays a large role in where they are able to build, as they can only build on a viable location. Farley said they can only build on a plot of land that makes sense for the community as a whole.
Farley said the agency hopes to provide a place to live to help those in active recovery re-enter the workforce.
“Obviously we think these are good first steps,” Farley said. “We have one home that is dedicated for women and the other home is dedicated to men.”
Farley said the projects have been evolving over the last few years and the transitional houses would be a good resource for the community. Farley said his housing staff works with at-risk individuals every day. Farley said his staff provides additional resources, going above and beyond for residents.
“I’m very proud of the dedication they show each and every day,” Farley said.
UCDD received the Aliceann Wohlbruck Impact Award.
