Housing Board Training
November 28 - November 29, 2012
San Antonio, TX
Course Description
This is a two-day training course designed for those who sit on tribal housing boards/housing committees and/or tribal council members charged with overseeing their housing programs. Attendees will be provided with valuable information regarding the basics of the Native American Housing Assistance and Self Determination Act (NAHASDA), as well as their roles and responsibilities under NAHASDA; short- and long-range planning; how to maximize revenues from non-HUD sources; how a tribal housing entity should operate; why policies are vital to success; parliamentary procedures; and, how to run a productive board meeting.
Objectives
- Understand Board of Commissioners (BOC) roles and responsibilities.
- More clearly understand the legal foundation for the tribal housing entity.
- Understand the major points of NAHASDA.
- Realize the importance of partnering with the executive director.
- Know the importance of operating as a policymaking board rather than as a management board.
Who should attend?
The course has been developed for members of tribal housing boards/tribal housing department committees, and tribal council members responsible for overseeing their housing program operations. Other housing staff interested in learning more about housing board/committee functions are also encouraged to attend as well.
Supervisory Management
November 05 - November 08, 2012
San Francisco, CA
Course Description
Whether you manage the work performance of one or twenty employees, or whether you are a project team leader, a newly promoted supervisor, or a seasoned professional manager, developing and improving your skills as a ‘people’ manager may be the critical link to your success or failure in delivering quality housing services. During this four-day course, students will have the opportunity to reflect on and assess their individual strengths and weaknesses as a supervisor. Participants will leave with a personal action plan that helps capitalize on their strengths and turn weaknesses into agents for growth, both personally and within their organizations.
Objectives
- Clearly understand and articulate the roles and responsibilities as a supervisor or manager within your organization.
- Assess and analyze your communication skills and understand your management style.
- Understand keys to hiring and retaining top talent.
- Explore how to realign your approach to performance appraisals to make them more effective and relevant to your employees.
- Learn the myths and truths about conflict including the positive role of constructive conflict.
- Understand the stages of conflict escalation and the communication skills needed to defuse them.
- Identify the characteristics of the difficult employee and explore techniques and methods for better managing their work performance.
- Understand what values must be applied and modeled by the supervisor to build teams that work together effectively and accomplish tasks.
- Understand causes for dissatisfaction in the workplace.
- Survey the principles and theories of motivation and develop your own model for how you will motivate your employees to excel in their work performance.
- Assess your leadership style and how you best influence and lead others.
Who Should Attend?
This course is designed for any housing staff person who is charged with the supervision and/or performance management of one or more staff members: such as first line supervisors, program managers, and directors.
Maintenance Program Management
October 30 - November 02, 2012
Albuquerque, NM
Course Description
The Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA) requires the continued maintenance of existing housing units and that policies be in place providing for the maintenance. Tribal housing maintenance programs must balance operating within their current budgets while providing for the long-term maintenance and viability of the housing stock. This course will provide participants with ideas and methods to develop and improve the effectiveness of the housing maintenance operation. Preventive maintenance, routine, non-routine, and deferred maintenance will all be addressed, as well as the laws, regulations, leases, and other documents that effect maintenance. Particular emphasis is placed upon providing good customer service.
Objectives
- Develop short- and long-term maintenance plans.
- Learn how to develop a maintenance budget.
- Learn how federal procurement requirements play an important role in the maintenance program.
- Understand the importance of an inventory system.
- Understand the importance of working with other tribal housing departments.
- Learn how to plan for preventive, routine, and non-routine maintenance.
- Understand the relationship between maintenance and modernization.
- Discuss communication issues.
- Understand work order systems.
Who Should Attend?
Maintenance managers, maintenance staff, housing directors, board members, occupancy staff and finance staff.
Drugs of Abuse: Identification and Abatement in Tribal Housing Communities
November 14 - November 15, 2012
Phoenix, AZ
Course Description
The Drugs of Abuse: Identification and Abatement in Tribal Housing Communities Training Program is a two‐day detailed education and prevention session. This highly interactive training program provides all housing employees with the vital recognition of substance abuse such as methamphetamine, prescription drugs, over‐the‐counter drugs, synthetic drugs, and heroin. Attendees will review actual cases and videos of substance abuse and paraphernalia to help identify potential issues in tribal housing. Attendees will learn effective abatement strategies to combat this growing problem. This training session is interactive and includes videos, photographs and contemporary crime prevention strategies.
Objectives
- Examine the overall substance abuse issues and impacts in tribal housing communities.
- Learn how to identify legal and illegal substance abuse.
- Learn how drugs are endangering the tribal housing environment.
- Learn effective problem‐solving strategies to take back home with you.
- Gain familiarity with next‐step resources that are available to you.
Who should attend?
Housing employees, housing board/committee members, tribal council members, tribal law enforcement, social services, and others involved or interested in combating drugs of abuse in tribal housing are encouraged to attend.
Admissions & Occupancy Program Management
October 23 - October 26, 2012
San Diego, CA
Course Description
Admissions & Occupancy Program Management is a four-day, interactive course designed to enhance the job performance of occupancy specialists and other tribal housing professionals working on admissions and occupancy issues. Successful completion of this course, including a passing grade on the final examination, is a requirement of the NAIHC Certified Occupancy Management Specialist Track.
This newly revised course will cover Admissions and Occupancy program management topics to include the application and selection process, Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA) eligibility, calculating annual income, determining monthly rental or homeownership payments, occupancy standards, collections practices and compliance, effective communication techniques with residents, and lease agreement compliance. Participates should bring copies of their own program’s admissions and occupancy policies so that they can practice applying them to case studies and role playing exercises presented to them during the course. The course will also examine how maintaining high standards in their admissions and occupancy program affects the overall management of tribal housing programs. Participants are encouraged to bring calculators.
Objectives
- Improved job performance of occupancy specialists and other tribal housing staff working with admissions and occupancy issues.
- Learn how the application and admissions process for tenants and residents works.
- Learn how NAHASDA and tribal housing policies impact admissions and occupancy programs.
- Understand what requirements should be included in admissions, continued occupancy, collection, and grievance policies.
- Learn how to apply eligibility criteria.
- Learn how to calculate annual income and how to compute monthly house payments and rents.
- Understand the importance of verifying applicant information.
- Understand the political, legal and financial implications of collections and compliance.
- Practice strategies for effective communications with residents.
- Understand the importance and benefits of effective collections and compliance with policies and procedures.
Who should attend?
Admissions and occupancy staff, resident services staff, executive directors, deputy directors, housing management staff, housing board members, or others interested in learning about the admissions and occupancy program.
Financial Management
October 16 - October 19, 2012
Tulsa, OK
Course Description
This course covers the administrative requirements that pertain to the use of Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG) funds distributed to tribes and tribal housing programs in accordance with the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA). During this course, students will learn how to develop financial planning strategies for a tribal housing program, the basics of developing an operational budget for a tribal housing program, and how to budget for various projects under NAHASDA. Students will discuss the skills required to perform the responsibilities related to sound financial management and the methods for complying with 24 CFR Part 85, Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circulars A-87, and A-133–all of which govern tribal housing finances. Students will also participate in skill building exercises and case studies.
Objectives
- Provide an overview of the business environment and operation and relevance to financial management.
- Present an overview of concepts and basics of financial management.
- Increase the understanding of management functions, job roles and responsibilities in the field of finance.
- Improve capabilities and proficiency of job skills in the performance of financial functions of the local housing entity.
- Provide for a forum of technical assistance and group (peer) assistance by sharing experiences.
Who Should Attend?
Housing finance officers, housing finance managers, accountants, accountant technicians, bookkeepers, controllers, executive directors, deputy directors, housing managers, and other interested housing staff. Housing committee members and housing board members are also encouraged to attend.
Pathways Home: A Native Homeownership Guide
October 15 - October 19, 2012
Omaha, NE
Course Description
Participants will learn how to deliver a comprehensive homebuyer education program designed to help educate prospective native homebuyers on how to become successful homeowners. The curriculum is specifically tailored for Native American communities.
Participants will also learn the most effective methods to help potential homebuyers determine what is best for them; to build a new home or to buy an existing one. Other areas covered in this curriculum include understanding the mortgage loan process, how to prepare a family budget, how to improve credit profiles, how to avoid the pitfalls of predatory lending, foreclosure prevention strategies, and how the family can maintain the home and their personal finances after the purchase.
Instructors specialize in homebuyer education and include culturally relevant teaching techniques in the classroom.
Objectives
- The Native American Housing Assistance and Self‐Determination Act (NAHASDA) impacts the use of private sector financing for purchasing homes in Indian Country.
- To explore the various aspects of homeownership.
- To consider mortgage‐based homeownership.
- To evaluate credit for homeownership.
- To correlate the credit report and credit score to homeownership potential.
- To assist folks in finding a home and applying for a home loan.
- To teach your folks how to meet their financial obligations.
- To prevent foreclosure and locate assistance for foreclosure prevention.
- To protect your investment.
- Various training techniques can be used in your community.
- To keep your attendees involved and interested in seeking other resources.
- To become familiar with basic terminology used in the lending/mortgage industry.
Who should attend?
Occupancy specialists, collections staff, resident services counselors, and homebuyer educators. Tribal council members, board members, tribal housing committee members, and other housing staff interested in learning more about the homebuyer process are also encouraged to attend.
PLEASE NOTE: Pathways Home certification is effective for 3 years after the student has attended the course and been awarded a certificate. Pathways Home Instructors must have a current certificate to order Pathways Home student and instructor manuals for community based homebuyer education sessions.
NAIHC is developing a “Pathways Home Recertification” course, which will be offered September 5-7 in Denver, CO. If your certification has expired, please make plans to attend this course. More details will be posted as they become available.
Hands-On Tribal Housing Maintenance
October 09 - October 12, 2012
Traverse City, MI
Course Description
Electrical - During this session, students will learn the basics of electricity (i.e., understanding wattage, voltage, and amperage) and then have the opportunity for some real hands on experience as we go over the basics of electrical repair and basic trouble shooting techniques. Following demonstrations by the instructor, students will have the opportunity to replicate the techniques demonstrated by using tools of the trade, actual electrical wiring, and actual electrical parts. More specifically, students will have the opportunity to learn how to replace a circuit breaker, replace outlets, switches, and light fixtures, install or replace ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), and wire a 3-way switch.
Locks - The Locksmithing Workshop will teach maintenance personnel the techniques used in the re-pinning of tumbler locks. This procedure of re-pinning locks by your in house personnel can save your agency the high cost of having to bring in outside locksmith people. They will also learn why keys break off in locks and proper preventive maintenance for all types of locks. This is a hands-on workshop, so participants will have an opportunity to re-pin a lock. Additionally, a binder with handouts showing the re-pinning of lock procedures will be given out to each participant.
Plumbing – During the plumbing portion of this workshop, maintenance personnel will learn the basic concepts of plumbing, discover the proper methods to use when soldering copper tubing, discuss trouble shooting techniques for toilet problems, and learn techniques for the proper maintenance of water heaters. As with the previous sessions on electricity and locksmithing, maintenance personnel will have the opportunity to actually work with copper, PVC, and other plumbing materials as they replicate what the instructor has demonstrated.
Objectives
Electrical
- Gain a better understanding of the inter-workings of various electrical parts.
- Gain a better understanding of the distribution of electricity through various electrical parts.
- Learn how to use electrical test equipment during everyday maintenance activities.
- Reinforce safety issues related to working with electricity.
Locks
- Learn what the various types of locks used are.
- Learn how to remove cylinders from different types of locks.
- Learn what the tools of the trade are for re-keying locks.
- Learn how to determine what pins are required for the various key cuts.
- Learn how to re-key and re-pin tumbler locks.
- Learn how to shim pin tumbler locks.
- Learn how to extract a broken key from a lock.
Plumbing
- Learn the basic concepts of plumbing.
- Learn the proper methods to use when soldering copper tubing.
- Learn trouble shooting techniques for toilet problems.
- Learn the techniques needed for the proper maintenance of hot water heaters.
Who should attend?
Maintenance supervisors, managers, maintenance foreman, maintenance mechanics, maintenance staff, project managers, and others interested in learning more about basic maintenance techniques and procedures are encouraged to attend.
NAHASDA-LIHTC Compliance for Professional Certification
October 02 - October 05, 2012
Missoula, MT
Course Description
This intensive, three and one half-day training course is designed to provide tribal housing professionals with an overview of the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program, and how the program can complement other tribal housing initiatives. The course provides both a general explanation of the program and describes detailed procedures and requirements for continuing operational compliance under the LIHTC and the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA) programs.
The class addresses the fundamentals of tax credit compliance from a global perspective and explains how compliance can be integrated into an existing property management regimen. Participants will also learn about tenant compliance requirements and the costs and penalties associated with non-compliance. How NAHASDA fits into the LIHTC program will also be discussed, and in particular, admissions and occupancy requirements.
Objectives
- Obtain a basic understanding of the LIHTC program and its relationship to tribal housing initiatives.
- Understand critical dates and other factors associated with the development process.
- Learn the compliance requirements and obligations associated with participation in the LIHTC program together with an understanding of the costs and penalties associated with non-compliance.
- Discuss ongoing tenant compliance requirements of the LIHTC and NAHASDA programs and related issues.
- Understand how NAHASDA factors into the admissions and compliance aspect of this program when funds from both programs are used.
Who should attend?
Housing directors, housing managers, resident service staff, and LIHTC compliance officers/managers, and other housing staff interested in learning more about LIHTC/NAHASDA Compliance issues are encouraged to attend.
Developing Sustainable Tribal Housing
September 26 - September 27, 2012
Seattle, WA
Course Description
This two-day course will explore sustainable building strategies for housing developments in Indian Country. The course is designed to inspire participants to consider energy efficient and sustainable designs. The first day of training will include a series of topics that describe the value of using sustainable building techniques, including practical examples of successful sustainable build projects in Indian Country. Topics on the second day will provide students with the nuts and bolts of building using sustainable methodology and products. Specific sustainable building materials and methods will be discussed and alternative power sources will be explored. Other topics to be covered include water conservation, indoor air quality, and building envelope components.
Objectives
- Help tribes increase their capacity and knowledge base to be better prepared to build sustainable, energy efficient, and affordable housing development projects in their communities.
- Help clarify core sustainable building elements and why they should be incorporated into every new affordable housing construction project in tribal communities.
- Learn how to use sustainable technology so that tribal housing programs will be able to meet the new sustainable industry standards that are becoming essential to securing new home construction funds.
Who should attend?
Housing directors, maintenance supervisors, planners, and others interested in learning more about sustainable building trends in the tribal housing industry are encouraged to attend.
Development, Modernization, and Force Account Construction
September 18 - September 21, 2012
Anchorage, AK
Course Description
This course covers each step of the development and modernization process under the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA) and the use of Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG) funds when building new homes or rehabilitating existing homes.
This course covers each step of the development and modernization process under the Native American Housing Assistance and Self‐Determination Act (NAHASDA) and the use of Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG) funds when building new homes or rehabilitating existing homes. During this course, students will learn about the relevance of the Indian Housing Plan (IHP) and what role that plays in the development and modernization process. Students will also learn about other funding sources that can be used for development and modernization; what role the community can play in planning for future development and modernization projects; how to select a site for development; and how to develop short‐ and long‐range plans and goals to develop a site. Emphasis will placed the importance of proper project planning and design; alternative development techniques; applicable procurement regulations; prioritization of objectives; managing an ongoing modernization program; monitoring techniques; construction management; and finally using the Force Account construction method, including pros and cons, hiring and training, and supervision.
Objectives
- Expand their understanding of NAHASDA, its implementing regulations and program guidance notices with sufficient skill to quickly locate the key regulatory provisions applicable to development and modernization projects.
- Increase their knowledge of the history of tribal housing development and modernization programs to inform development of project management skill building goals.
- Increase their knowledge and understanding of the functions and necessary stages for the development of affordable housing projects (from concept to operations), including but not limited to the specific federal administrative compliance requirements for procurement, contract administration, and environmental reviews applicable to development projects.
- Obtain a basic knowledge of the Force Account method of construction to enable tribal housing programs to implement a program that will provide long‐term employment for the community.
Who Should Attend?
Housing maintenance supervisors, housing development/rehabilitation managers, housing managers, executive directors, deputy directors, procurement staff, contract administrators, finance officers, and other interested housing staff. Housing committee members and housing board members are also encouraged to attend.
Critical Components of Effective Housing Board & Tribal Council Governance
September 12 - September 13, 2012
Salt Lake City, UT
Course Description
Tribes and tribal housing programs have varied governance structures for the oversight of their housing programs based on the tribe’s unique needs. When tribal councils, boards of commissioners, and housing committee members are unclear about their distinct roles and responsibilities, they either become under-involved in governance, or attempt to micromanage operational activities. In this environment, leadership conflicts are sure to follow, leading to poor, and often times, damaging results for the organization. Are there governance models, principles, or practices that will help tribes/tribal housing programs be more effective in their governance? Working in a mutually supportive environment of peers, this interactive training will lead participants to explore, discover, and identify critical components of effective governance.
Objectives
- Participants will develop a working definition of governance.
- Describe 5 principles of effective governance.
- Examine various governance models and evaluate the pros and cons of each.
- Discuss and assess the barriers to effective governance for tribes/tribal housing programs.
- Write a plan of action to implement effective governance practices and evaluate the plan to determine if steps are: specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely.
Who should attend?
Attendance is recommended for tribal council members, boards of commissioners, housing committee members, executive directors, chief executive officers, or other housing staff who are interested in improving the governance practices of their tribe/tribal housing program are encouraged to attend.
Pathways Home Recertification Course
September 05 - September 07, 2012
Denver, CO
NAIHC is developing a “Pathways Home Recertification” course, which will be offered September 5-7 in Denver, CO. If your certification has expired, please make plans to attend this course. More details will be posted as they become available.
Native Gangs and Drugs in Tribal Housing
September 05 - September 06, 2012
Rapid City, SD
Course Description
As methamphetamine and pharmaceutical drug abuse in tribal housing communities has increased significantly in recent years, so has the growing activity of Native gangs. This two-day program will cover the latest information on this problem and help you increase the awareness of the current gang and drug trafficking threat occurring in tribal housing communities. The course will also cover ways to create effective abatement and prevention strategies for your tribal housing and resident services programs.
Objectives
- Examine the drug trafficking impact in Indian Country.
- Learn about Native gangs throughout Indian Country.
- Identify Native gang graffiti and identifiers.
- Examine the types of drugs involved in drug trafficking.
- Learn about drugs of abuse in Indian Country.
- Learn about proactive approaches and action plans to address gangs in tribal communities.
Who should attend?
Tribal housing staff, tribal housing board/committee members, tribal council members, tribal law enforcement, tribal service providers, and others involved or interested in combating gang and drug problems in tribal housing are encouraged to attend.
Housing Services
August 28 - August 31, 2012
Anchorage, AK
Course Description
Establishing good relationships with residents and tenants is a part of good customer service. A positive community spirit translates into homes that are well maintained, saving money for both the resident and tribal housing program. This course will provide the participants with information and methods to deal with issues and concerns that arise when working with residents and tenants. Participants will be introduced to the basics of homebuyer education in order for them to effectively answer questions from potential homebuyers.
Objectives
- Define role of the resident services program.
- Discuss counseling programs for residents and tenants.
- Develop and maintain good community relations.
- Learn about homebuyer programs.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of your services to residents and tenants.
Who Should Attend?
Housing directors and other tribal housing professionals who work with resident services programs and/or resident organizations.
Introduction to Indian Housing Management
August 21 - August 24, 2012
Denver, CO
Course Description
This course covers the skills and knowledge necessary to manage a typical tribal housing operation and the more commonly administered tribal housing programs. The Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA) requires that tribes and tribal housing programs manage their housing program based on locally-developed needs and priorities and sound business practices. During this course, students will learn first about the history of the federal tribal housing program (pre-NAHASDA) and then transition to the changes that were brought about by NAHASDA. Students will learn about effective management principles for all areas of the housing operation (e.g., admissions, occupancy, resident services, maintenance, etc.); what fiscal controls are needed and recommended; what audit requirements apply; how existing housing programs (e.g., low-income rentals, homeownership, rental assistance, etc.) should be managed; as well as a detailed look at the policies and procedures necessary to operate a housing program. Students will also learn how to plan for housing development projects; how the daily maintenance operation should function; and about long-term maintenance obligations. This course will also include an overview of the new Indian housing plan and annual performance report.
Objectives
- Learn the history of tribal housing.
- Gain a working knowledge of NAHASDA regulations.
- Understand housing management policies and procedures.
- Implement useful admissions and occupancy procedures.
- Learn how to plan for housing development projects.
- Understand daily maintenance operations and obligations.
- Discuss resident services programs and their purpose.
Who Should Attend?
New executive directors, deputy directors, housing managers, housing department supervisors, other interested housing staff, housing committee members, and housing board members.
Acquisition Basics for Goods and Services
August 14 - August 17, 2012
Duluth, MN
Course Description
Housing authorities, tribal housing departments, and tribal governments are accountable for the proper procurement of goods and services with Indian Housing Block Grant funds. Because contract awarding involves the use of funds collected from taxpayers, a higher standard is applied to the procurement process than is the case with private industry contracts. This course covers the regulatory procurement requirements and methods for implementing them.
This four-day course will bring you up-to-date on current procurement practices as they affect contract administration and procurement in the purchasing of materials or services for tribal housing organizations.
Objectives
- Acquire an understanding of the sealed bidding process.
- Discuss individual or departmental procurement plans.
- Learn how to develop a statement of work, cost estimate, invitation for bids, request for proposals, and evaluation criteria.
- Determine appropriate contractor qualifications.
- Learn how to monitor contractor’s payroll reports and ensure compliance with applicable labor standards.
- Understand relationships with subcontractors.
- Discuss preparation and evaluation of competitive proposals.
- Learn contract administration methods and requirements.
Who Should Attend?
Procurement staff, housing directors, contract administrators, finance directors, maintenance directors, and other interested staff.
Financial Management
August 07 - August 10, 2012
Fargo, ND
Course Description
This course covers the administrative requirements that pertain to the use of Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG) funds distributed to tribes and tribal housing programs in accordance with the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA). During this course, students will learn how to develop financial planning strategies for a tribal housing program, the basics of developing an operational budget for a tribal housing program, and how to budget for various projects under NAHASDA. Students will discuss the skills required to perform the responsibilities related to sound financial management and the methods for complying with 24 CFR Part 85, Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circulars A-87, and A-133–all of which govern tribal housing finances. Students will also participate in skill building exercises and case studies.
Objectives
- Provide an overview of the business environment and operation and relevance to financial management.
- Present an overview of concepts and basics of financial management.
- Increase the understanding of management functions, job roles and responsibilities in the field of finance.
- Improve capabilities and proficiency of job skills in the performance of financial functions of the local housing entity.
- Provide for a forum of technical assistance and group (peer) assistance by sharing experiences.
Who Should Attend?
Housing finance officers, housing finance managers, accountants, accountant technicians, bookkeepers, controllers, executive directors, deputy directors, housing managers, and other interested housing staff. Housing committee members and housing board members are also encouraged to attend.
Basic Accounting for Tribal Housing
July 24 - July 27, 2012
Chicago, IL
Course Description
This course provides elementary accounting concepts with an emphasis on the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA) program requirements. Since administrative capability is a requirement for all tribes receiving Indian Housing Block Grant program funding, it is important that personnel working in accounting have a thorough understanding of accounting fundamentals. This course will also help those that are not familiar with accounting to gain a familiarity with accounting practices, which will also help them in performing their jobs.
Objectives
- Learn the purpose of accounting and its role in the tribal housing organization.
- Gain an understanding of the fundamentals of accounting principles.
- Learn and practice basic accounting transactions, including accounting accruals and adjustments.
- Become familiar with record keeping and the accounting process.
- Learn the importance of providing accounting information through financial reporting.
Who should attend?
Persons working in accounting or finance, either for tribes or tribal housing programs, both experienced personnel who would like a refresher and employees new to the accounting area. Non-accounting personnel who would also like to gain a better understanding of accounting practices are also encouraged to attend.
Developing Sustainable Tribal Housing
July 18 - July 19, 2012
Buffalo, NY
Course Description
This two-day course will explore sustainable building strategies for housing developments in Indian Country. The course is designed to inspire participants to consider energy efficient and sustainable designs. The first day of training will include a series of topics that describe the value of using sustainable building techniques, including practical examples of successful sustainable build projects in Indian Country. Topics on the second day will provide students with the nuts and bolts of building using sustainable methodology and products. Specific sustainable building materials and methods will be discussed and alternative power sources will be explored. Other topics to be covered include water conservation, indoor air quality, and building envelope components.
Objectives
- Help tribes increase their capacity and knowledge base to be better prepared to build sustainable, energy efficient, and affordable housing development projects in their communities.
- Help clarify core sustainable building elements and why they should be incorporated into every new affordable housing construction project in tribal communities.
- Learn how to use sustainable technology so that tribal housing programs will be able to meet the new sustainable industry standards that are becoming essential to securing new home construction funds.
Who should attend?
Housing directors, maintenance supervisors, planners, and others interested in learning more about sustainable building trends in the tribal housing industry are encouraged to attend.
NAHASDA LIHTC Compliance for Professional Certification
July 10 - July 13, 2012
Minneapolis, MN
Course Description
This intensive, three and one half-day training course is designed to provide tribal housing professionals with an overview of the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program, and how the program can complement other tribal housing initiatives. The course provides both a general explanation of the program and describes detailed procedures and requirements for continuing operational compliance under the LIHTC and the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA) programs.
The class addresses the fundamentals of tax credit compliance from a global perspective and explains how compliance can be integrated into an existing property management regimen. Participants will also learn about tenant compliance requirements and the costs and penalties associated with non-compliance. How NAHASDA fits into the LIHTC program will also be discussed, and in particular, admissions and occupancy requirements.
Objectives
- Obtain a basic understanding of the LIHTC program and its relationship to tribal housing initiatives.
- Understand critical dates and other factors associated with the development process.
- Learn the compliance requirements and obligations associated with participation in the LIHTC program together with an understanding of the costs and penalties associated with non-compliance.
- Discuss ongoing tenant compliance requirements of the LIHTC and NAHASDA programs and related issues.
- Understand how NAHASDA factors into the admissions and compliance aspect of this program when funds from both programs are used.
Who should attend?
Housing directors, housing managers, resident service staff, and LIHTC compliance officers/managers, and other housing staff interested in learning more about LIHTC/NAHASDA Compliance issues are encouraged to attend.
Housing Board Training
July 11 - July 12, 2012
Green Bay, WI
Course Description
This is a two-day training course designed for those who sit on tribal housing boards/housing committees and/or tribal council members charged with overseeing their housing programs. Attendees will be provided with valuable information regarding the basics of the Native American Housing Assistance and Self Determination Act (NAHASDA), as well as their roles and responsibilities under NAHASDA; short- and long-range planning; how to maximize revenues from non-HUD sources; how a tribal housing entity should operate; why policies are vital to success; parliamentary procedures; and, how to run a productive board meeting.
Objectives
- Understand Board of Commissioners (BOC) roles and responsibilities.
- More clearly understand the legal foundation for the tribal housing entity.
- Understand the major points of NAHASDA.
- Realize the importance of partnering with the executive director.
- Know the importance of operating as a policymaking board rather than as a management board.
Who should attend?
The course has been developed for members of tribal housing boards/tribal housing department committees, and tribal council members responsible for overseeing their housing program operations. Other housing staff interested in learning more about housing board/committee functions are also encouraged to attend as well.
Policy Development
June 27 - June 28, 2012
Las Vegas, NV
Course Description
During this two-day workshop, attendees will be guided through a model approach to manage the policy development process. The workshop will also offer practice and feedback for continuation and development of solid writing skills. To promote effectiveness as a communicator via writing, attendees will be called upon to participate in various writing activities that require critical analysis of current policy problems and issues in tribal housing.
To promote better writing skills, attendees will engage in discussions, peer review sessions, and self-critique. The workshop also includes an overview of the specific policies, standards, or statements required under the Native American Housing Assistance and Self Determination Act (NAHASDA).
Objectives
- Explore and apply a conceptual approach to better manage the policy development process of your organization.
- Understand the policy requirements for sound management of the Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG) program.
- Complete a self-assessment to determine if your organization is in compliance with required policies of NAHASDA.
- Improve your policy writing skills.
Who should attend?
Housing board/committee members, executive directors, program directors, tribal housing staff, tribal housing managers, tribal housing supervisors, and others assigned responsibility for writing housing policies and/or managing the policy development process are also encouraged to attend.
Pathways Home: A Native Homeownership Guide
June 25 - June 29, 2012
Madison, WI
Course Description
Participants will learn how to deliver a comprehensive homebuyer education program designed to help educate prospective native homebuyers on how to become successful homeowners. The curriculum is specifically tailored for Native American communities.
Participants will also learn the most effective methods to help potential homebuyers determine what is best for them; to build a new home or to buy an existing one. Other areas covered in this curriculum include understanding the mortgage loan process, how to prepare a family budget, how to improve credit profiles, how to avoid the pitfalls of predatory lending, foreclosure prevention strategies, and how the family can maintain the home and their personal finances after the purchase.
Instructors specialize in homebuyer education and include culturally relevant teaching techniques in the classroom.
Objectives
- The Native American Housing Assistance and Self‐Determination Act (NAHASDA) impacts the use of private sector financing for purchasing homes in Indian Country.
- To explore the various aspects of homeownership.
- To consider mortgage‐based homeownership.
- To evaluate credit for homeownership.
- To correlate the credit report and credit score to homeownership potential.
- To assist folks in finding a home and applying for a home loan.
- To teach your folks how to meet their financial obligations.
- To prevent foreclosure and locate assistance for foreclosure prevention.
- To protect your investment.
- Various training techniques can be used in your community.
- To keep your attendees involved and interested in seeking other resources.
- To become familiar with basic terminology used in the lending/mortgage industry.
Who should attend?
Occupancy specialists, collections staff, resident services counselors, and homebuyer educators. Tribal council members, board members, tribal housing committee members, and other housing staff interested in learning more about the homebuyer process are also encouraged to attend.
PLEASE NOTE: Pathways Home certification is effective for 3 years after the student has attended the course and been awarded a certificate. Pathways Home Instructors must have a current certificate to order Pathways Home student and instructor manuals for community based homebuyer education sessions.
NAIHC is developing a “Pathways Home Recertification” course, which will be offered September 5-7 in Denver, CO. If your certification has expired, please make plans to attend this course. More details will be posted as they become available.
Maintenance Program Management
June 19 - June 22, 2012
Rapid City, SD
Course Description
The Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA) requires the continued maintenance of existing housing units and that policies be in place providing for the maintenance. Tribal housing maintenance programs must balance operating within their current budgets while providing for the long-term maintenance and viability of the housing stock. This course will provide participants with ideas and methods to develop and improve the effectiveness of the housing maintenance operation. Preventive maintenance, routine, non-routine, and deferred maintenance will all be addressed, as well as the laws, regulations, leases, and other documents that effect maintenance. Particular emphasis is placed upon providing good customer service.
Objectives
- Develop short- and long-term maintenance plans.
- Learn how to develop a maintenance budget.
- Learn how federal procurement requirements play an important role in the maintenance program.
- Understand the importance of an inventory system.
- Understand the importance of working with other tribal housing departments.
- Learn how to plan for preventive, routine, and non-routine maintenance.
- Understand the relationship between maintenance and modernization.
- Discuss communication issues.
- Understand work order systems.
Who Should Attend?
Maintenance managers, maintenance staff, housing directors, board members, occupancy staff and finance staff.
Acquisition Basics for Goods and Services
May 22 - May 25, 2012
Portland, OR
Course Description
Housing authorities, tribal housing departments, and tribal governments are accountable for the proper procurement of goods and services with Indian Housing Block Grant funds. Because contract awarding involves the use of funds collected from taxpayers, a higher standard is applied to the procurement process than is the case with private industry contracts. This course covers the regulatory procurement requirements and methods for implementing them.
This four-day course will bring you up-to-date on current procurement practices as they affect contract administration and procurement in the purchasing of materials or services for tribal housing organizations.
Objectives
- Acquire an understanding of the sealed bidding process.
- Discuss individual or departmental procurement plans.
- Learn how to develop a statement of work, cost estimate, invitation for bids, request for proposals, and evaluation criteria.
- Determine appropriate contractor qualifications.
- Learn how to monitor contractor’s payroll reports and ensure compliance with applicable labor standards.
- Understand relationships with subcontractors.
- Discuss preparation and evaluation of competitive proposals.
- Learn contract administration methods and requirements.
Who Should Attend?
Procurement staff, housing directors, contract administrators, finance directors, maintenance directors, and other interested staff.