Change – It Never Stops

Change never really stops. All of our rural and self-help housing programs change constantly in some way. Some of the change is caused by us and is totally within our control. Some change is outside of our control. Yet we still have to be aware of change, take stock of what it means for us, and manage our programs in such a way that the impacts of change are as positive as possible. 

Take time to think about the change you face that is within your organization's control. Some examples might be the building lots you choose for your next group of families, the size houses you offer participant families, the computer upgrades or new equipment you plan to purchase, or the goals you set for your self-help and other rural housing activities.

Change outside of our control might include a scarcity of land, competition from conventional CRA mortgage programs, greater or lessor demand for self-help in your area, or more strict zoning requirements requiring larger lots and impact fees.

There also can be big picture and small picture change which we all need to be aware of. Small picture change within our geographic area of operation may have an immediate impact that must be addressed. Big picture change may be more national in scope. Perhaps it comes from Rural Development such as self-help funding levels, definitions of modest housing, 502 loan availability, and new 1944-I Instructions. While big picture change may seem more distant, it can have a significant impact.

Obviously, there are many more examples of each that could be listed. The point is that in order to manage changes in and outside of our control, we must first be aware of the changes. We must keep our eyes on the trends, we must be informed, we must track our demographics, we must know what Rural Development and local government are planning. The fact that some change seems outside of our control doesn't mean we sit passively by without a clue. If we do, opportunities will pass fleetingly by, and problems will definitely occur. If you see changes that will impact you, learn as much as you can about them and address them.

Consider having your Boards of Directors discuss change at an upcoming meeting. Perhaps have staff share the trends and changes they see in their day to day work at a future staff meeting. Be aware of change and to the extent you can, manage it to your organization's benefit.

Copyright ©2001 NCALL Research, Inc.