Dr. Mike Hendricks and the Applied Community Economic Development students in his POL 470: Seminar in Community Development course attended the 2023 Housing Matters Conference in Bloomington, October 19-20. The conference aligned perfectly with the course’s topic on October 19: “Housing, Revitalization, and Gentrification.”
Housing Action Illinois’ Housing Matters Conference this year focused on “Strong Roots, Thriving Communities.” As future community development practitioners, studying housing and housing issues is crucial for these students as it directly impacts the quality of life, social cohesion, and economic stability. Adequate housing fosters a sense of security and well-being, while addressing housing disparities can reduce inequalities and enhance inclusivity. Practitioners can design effective strategies for affordable housing, urban renewal, and sustainable development by understanding housing challenges. Moreover, housing interacts with health care, education, and employment, influencing overall community health. By tackling housing issues, practitioners contribute to holistic community advancement, promoting thriving neighborhoods, and fostering environments where individuals can reach their full potential.
Hendricks and his students would like to thank the Stevenson Center and the Center for Civic Engagement for providing financial support to attend the conference.
