The NHP Foundation announced today that Operation Pathways, Inc. has been selected as the first Certified Organization for Resident Engagement & Services (CORES) by the Stewards of Affordable Housing for the Future (SAHF). The CORES Certification recognizes organizations that have “developed a robust commitment, capacity, and competency in providing resident services coordination in affordable rental housing.”

The CORES Certification recognizes Operation Pathways’ development and implementation of a systematic framework and approach to resident services coordination. CORES Certification is one requirement (among others) in order for an owner of multifamily affordable housing to qualify for Fannie Mae™ Healthy Housing Rewards Enhanced Resident Services™ financing incentives.

According to Kenneth D. White, Executive Director, Operation Pathways, Inc., “The certification is an honor and a major accomplishment for our team as it qualifies Operation Pathways for Fannie Mae’s Healthy Housing Rewards program, which provides financial incentives to developers of service-enriched affordable housing.”

“We congratulate Operation Pathways as the first recipient of the CORES Certification and look forward to working more closely with them as they continue to provide enhanced resident services that improve the health and stability of the people who live in affordable rental housing properties,” added Bob Simpson, VP of Affordable and Green Financing, Fannie Mae.

Operation Pathways provides onsite services to over 10,000 individuals at 26 properties. Services provided by corporate and site-based staff focus on improving residents’ quality of life through four pathways: Academic Achievement, Healthier Living, Financial Stability, and Aging in Place.

“We are excited that Operation Pathways/NHP Foundation is the inaugural CORES certified organization,” said SAHF President & CEO Eileen Fitzgerald. “Their commitment to engaging their residents, to strategic implementation of resident services and to developing the systems and infrastructure necessary for success are hallmarks of the CORES certification.”