70 Homes, 70 New Beginnings: A Celebration of Hope and Legacy
What National Homeownership Month means at Omaha 100
By Malinda Williams, CEO of Omaha 100
At Omaha 100, we believe homeownership is about more than just buying a house—it’s about building a future. A stable home brings peace of mind, pride, and the chance to grow wealth for generations to come. That’s why National Homeownership Month means so much to us. It’s a time to reflect on what we’ve helped our clients accomplish and look ahead to what’s possible.
Since 1990, we’ve helped individuals and families gain the tools and financing they need to become homeowners. As a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), our mission is to break down barriers and give more people access to fair, affordable home loans—especially in neighborhoods that have been left out for too long.
A Snapshot of Progress
In just the last two years, Omaha 100 has made big strides: (https://bit.ly/4mx3ngu)
268 mortgage applications processed
70 families became homeowners
$10.9 million in mortgage loans closed
$727,000 in down payment support to 35 families
$487,000+ in secondary and city loans processed to close funding gaps
These numbers aren’t just stats. They represent real people—families who now have a place to call home. This is what transformation looks like for parents like Nicole Sandoval, who created a safe and joyful space for her son with autism. For lifelong residents like Bri Parker, it means her home is the next chapter in a three-generation legacy contributing to the vibrancy of North Omaha.
Why It Matters
Owning a home builds confidence, security, and wealth—but not everyone has had the same opportunities. In Nebraska, over 70% of White residents own their homes. For Black residents, that number is closer to 30%. That gap is unacceptable and it’s why our work is so important. (https://archives.hud.gov/local/ne/goodstories/2024-02-22.cfm)
We’re not just offering loans, we’re offering education, support, and a path forward. By designing programs that meet people where they are, we’re helping to close the racial wealth gap and build a stronger Omaha for all.
Looking Ahead
With continued support from our partners and our community, we’re not just getting people into homes, we’re building legacies. We’re helping individuals and families gain not only a fair share in property, but opening doors to opportunity.
As we look to the future, Omaha 100 remains committed to increasing access to capital and empowering the next generation of homeowners. We know that when we invest in people, we strengthen communities. And when we strengthen communities, we build a better Omaha for everyone.
If you’re ready to take your next step toward homeownership—or want to help someone else get there—we’d love to connect.
Email: info@Omaha100.org
Call: (402) 342-3773
Visit: www.omaha100.org