Friends, With the passing of our tenth year in 2003, I am both humbled by the past accomplishments of Community Housing Initiatives, Inc., and eager to take on the many challenges that lie ahead. In 1993, CHI was formed as an affiliate of Upper Des Moines Opportunity, Inc. to help address affordable housing needs in eight northwest Iowa counties. The goals of the organization were modest in scope and local in nature. CHI staff and Board members had no inclination that the organization would evolve into one of the largest nonprofit housing groups in the state of Iowa. 2003 not only brought with it our tenth year in existence, but also completion of one of the most important projects that we have ever been involved with. The Van Allen and Son Department Store in Clinton, one of the few remaining Iowa historical landmarks, was completed in May. Designed by renowned architect Louis Sullivan, the Van Allen building is a structure with international architectural significance. We were honored to have been given the opportunity to work with a building of this stature. While this Annual Report does look back at some specific CHI accomplishments and projects, it appropriately focuses much attention on our ultimate purpose…forging partnerships to create housing solutions that positively impact peoples lives. CHI fully understands that there is much left do. We can insure all of our partners...past, present and future…that we will continue to work true to our core values, and that is to help insure a decent, safe and affordable home to all. Doug
LaBounty, President |
