NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources

Partnerships and Positive Attitudes

2012-03-07T13:39:00.003-08:00

Thanks to the Box Elder office, NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources has been building solid partners and reaching out to more families and individuals in Western South Dakota. On February 23rd, the Community Development office contacted NeighborWorks seeking assistance for a client that was in need of an "Emergency" water heater.

Homeowner, Judy McKeon, is on a fixed income that limited her ability to replace her non-working hot water heater. Thanks to the partnership between Community Development and NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources, NeighborWorks was able to provide a loan which allowed Judy to replace the water heater quickly.

Together both organizations helped improve the quality of her home and life.

Although Judy has had a difficult year, she was still very positive and thankful. Several times she stated, "What a lucky person I am."

Judy's Loan Counselor, Doris Nelson, stated "I thought, "Wow", I could sure learn something from this lady on Positive Attitudes".

"Homeownership Offers New Beginnings"

2012-02-08T13:31:00.001-08:00

Sherry Bald Eagle Bear and her two nieces will now have a safe, affordable, and spacious place to call home. Sherry purchased a South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA) Governor’s home at McGuigan Ranch in Spearfish. Sherry utilized a 502 direct loan from USDA Rural Development, NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources down payment and closing cost assistance, and homebuyer education. Together these partnerships helped create an affordable home for Sherry and her family.

Sherry never thought that she would be able to own a home due to her fixed income. It was not until she was referred to USDA Rural Development that she knew there was assistance and programs, like the Governor’s House and NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources, that could help her get in a home.

“Once I was qualified for the loan, I thought the process was finished. I was referred to NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources. The NeighborWorks® staff, and their education program, helped me through the process.” Sherry stated.

NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources was the general contractor for this project. NeighborWorks® made sure the project was moving along and that Sherry and her nieces would have a quality home in a timely manner. NeighborWorks® construction manager, Dennis Rentz, played a big roll in helping the process run smoothly. “Dennis was so helpful throughout this process. He let me know that I could call him whenever I needed anything,” Bald Eagle Bear stated.

Sherry said that the only thing she would have changed about the process was she wished she had attended the homebuyer education class before she was pre-qualified. Sherry attended homebuyer education in Belle Fourche through NeighborWorks®, but this was after she was pre-qualified for a SDHDA Governor's Home. NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources offers monthly homebuyer education classes throughout the Black Hills which prepare future homeowners for homeownership and educate clients on all of their options. “Homebuyer education taught me a great deal of information. I would have liked that to be my first step.”

The family is excited to start their journey in their new home. “Homeownership has offered me a new life. One in which my nieces can be proud to have a home to love,” Bald Eagle Bear Stated.

NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources has assisted over 900 families with homeownership. For more information about NeighborWorks®, and their programs, call 605-578-1401.

NeighborWorks Celebrates 900th Homebuyer!

2011-12-05T09:06:00.000-08:00

For Eric Linn, the best part of homeownership is the realization that without programs like NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources, he probably wouldn't be living where he is.

"I'm really thankful to be building equity in my own place," said Linn, who recently purchased a newly constructed 2000-square foot, three bedroom home. "Without these programs, I wouldn't be doing that."

Linn was able to move his 6-year-old twin girls and 9-year-old boy into their new Box Elder home before Thanksgiving, something he wasn't always sure would be possible.

"My dream was to be in our new home by Christmas, but we were able to move in even earlier," he said. "Two months ago, the foundation was there but there was no roof. It went up really fast -- what a great Christmas present."

Before Linn discovered the USDA Rural Development program and NeighborWorks, his odds of buying a home were not all that good.

"I looked into getting a loan from a bank, and going that route, I simply could not get into a home based upon what I could afford," he said. NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources offers down payment and closing cost assistance to families like the Linns, who qualify under specific income guidelines.

Linn participated in NeighborWorks Home Buyer Education and received financing for his down payment and closing cost, making him NeighborWorks' 900th home buyer. A celebration of Linn's achievement as well as the success of the NeighborWorks program was held Saturday at Linn's new home.

For Linn, the buyer education program involved two three-hour classes that covered the entire home buying process, and included presentations from real estate agents, bankers and others actively involved in the purchase of a home.

"We teach people what they need to know to become homeowners," said Stephany Valkenburg, NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources marketing director.

The buyer education program, along with post-purchase classes that teach homeowners how to maintain a home, are free of charge and are open to anyone, not just those who qualify for home buying assistance through NeighborWorks. Valkenburg said that through "neighborhood block clubs" in Rapid City, Deadwood, Edgemont, Wall, Lead and Box Elder, the organization "helps bring communities together."

For Linn, obtaining a five-year interest free loan to cover his down payment took away some of the pressure first-time home buyers face.

"When you buy a home, there are so many more things to consider than just the obvious things like the purchase price, down payment and closing costs," Linn said. "For me, there were things like buying appliances. The help I received gave me one less thing to worry about."

Casino Royale-2011

2011-11-16T14:43:00.000-08:00

Box Elder Warm and Safe-2011

2011-11-16T14:26:00.000-08:00

$10,000 Donation From First Interstate Bank and First Interstate Bank Foundation

2011-11-14T09:20:00.000-08:00

DEADWOOD, SD (11/10/11) – First Interstate Bank Representatives presented a check in the amount of $10,000 on behalf of First Interstate Bank and The First Interstate Bank Foundation, to NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources Executive Director Joy McCracken at NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources third annual Casino Royale Fundraising event on November 10^th at 6pm.

NeighborWorks® is a non-profit organization with a mission to create decent, safe, and affordable housing in Black Hills Communities by offering free Homebuyer’s Education classes, credit counseling, and housing rehab services. The donation proceeds from First Interstate Bank will benefit NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources and support their campaign for homeownership.

In 1998, NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources became involved with NeighborWorks America’s “Campaign for Home Ownership.” This campaign seeks to revitalize communities by offering homeownership opportunities. Through the assistance of NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources families in South Dakota are realizing their dream of homeownership.First Interstate Bank was the first to show their support and help kick off NeighborWorks® Annual “Campaign for Home Ownership”.

First Interstate Bank President of the Deadwood Market and Board of Director's Member of the First Interstate Bank Foundation, Shawn Rost stated, “We are pleased to show our continued support for the mission of NeighborWorks, in these trying economic times, the support for the homeownership initiative in Western South Dakota is more important than ever. First Interstate Bank and The First Interstate Bank Foundation are proud to support NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources and their mission to the community.”

Joy McCracken Executive Director of NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources stated “we appreciate the continued support from First Interstate Bank and their ability of having the foresight to understand the benefits of homeownership and the positive outcomes it has on our families and communities. Through these strong partnerships our programs and services will continue to flourish.” Since 1992, NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources has provided a variety of programs and services that has assisted 898 low-and moderate-income families with the purchase of their homes.

In November, NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources will celebrate their 900^th homebuyer. First Interstate’s on-going generosity provides financial support for the continuation of such programs and services to benefit the residents of our communities. For more information about NeighborWorks’ programs and services, call 578-1401 or visit its website at www.neigborworksdhr.org.

For more i

Spearfish Travel Blog: Inspiration to Artists

2011-11-02T10:51:00.000-07:00

Spearfish Travel Blog: Inspiration to Artists: The scenic landscape and rich history of the Black Hills inspire both local and traveling artists alike. This area has a reputation for be...

$500 Grant helps Weatherize Trailer Homes in Box Elder

2011-10-12T15:36:00.000-07:00

$500 Grant helps Weatherize Trailer Homes in Box Elder

Box Elder, SD (10-13-11)- Box Elder resident Lora Heinrich received a $500 forgivable grant from NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources that helped replace two original, 1972 single pane, windows and a leaky door in her trailer home with new energy efficient windows and door.

NeighborWorks ® Dakota Home Resources created the $500 grant program to help Box Elder residents weatherize and improve the quality of owner occupied trailer homes in Box Elder.The $500 forgivable grant will assist in the purchase of materials that will make a home more energy efficient. The grant can be used to purchase new windows, doors, and repair minor plumbing and heating issues.

Lora Heinrich has lived in her 1972 trailer for four years and has been a resident of Box Elder since 1989. She has constantly been working to make her house more efficient. With the grant Lora replaced two windows in her home that had been an issue since she moved in. The main window in the living room allowed water to seep in and cause damage to the wall and floor. The bedroom window had a built in non-working air-conditioner that she could not take out. The new windows will prevent sweeping waters from destroying the wall. She was also able to remove the window and air-conditioned that could be considered a fire hazard. “The $500 grant has been a big help in getting the necessary repairs done in my home. If I would have had to purchase the windows and doors I would not have money left for other materials.”

NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources is a private non-profit organization that works to assist families with their dream of homeownership and revitalize the communities to improve the quality of life. NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources can assist you in fixing your home.

If you would like more information on the $500 grant please contact Doris or Roxanne at the Box Elder NeighborWorks® office at 605-923-6007 or visit the website at www.neighborworksdhr.org

"Growing Family Has Something to Call Their Own"

2011-09-07T07:40:00.000-07:00

First time homebuyer Aaron Sumners and his family moved into their brand new home on July 11th, 2011.

The family of five purchased their home in Box Elder with assistance from NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources and USDA Rural Development.

Aaron stated the best part of homeownership is his family now has something they can call their own.

On August 4^th, 2011, NeighborWorks Executive Director Joy McCracken, Box Elder Mayor Al Dial, Box Elder Chamber of Commerce Executive Director April Hicks, chamber board member Debra Cash and Sentinel Federal Credit Union Loan Officer Nancy Elwein welcomed the family into their new home.

Black Hills Power Donates $2,500 to NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources.

2011-06-30T09:26:00.000-07:00

Sturgis, SD (05/04/2011) – Tom Berry, on Behalf of Black Hills Power, presented a check in the amount of $2,500 to NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources Executive Director, Joy McCracken.

The donation proceeds from Black Hills Power will support NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources community outreach program Group Cares (formerly Group Workcamps.) Group Cares is a non-profit, interdenominational Christian volunteer home-repair organization headquartered in Loveland, Colorado. For the sixth time, NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources, along with Sturgis Brown High school sponsor the Workcamps July 10^th-16^th in the Northern Black Hills.

This year over 400 youth and adults from around the nation will visit the Black Hills and perform work on 56 homes. At each Workcamp, teenagers and adults – all members of church youth groups – volunteer a week of their time to repair homes throughout the community. “This represents about 12,000 hours of volunteer labor, worth over $120,000, to the community,” said Sharon Martinisko, Community Outreach Coordinator for NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources.

NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources would like to thank all of their sponsors and organization that helped them exceed their goal of $20,000: Meade County Commission, $5,000; Lawrence County Commissioner. $5,000; Black Hills Power, $2500; City of Sturgis, $3,000; SMRI, $1,000; Wesleyan Church, $1,000; Sturgis United Way, $1,000; Knights of Columbus $1,000. NeighborWorks would also like to thank all of the volunteers and sponsors that helped raise $617 from the Pancake Feed Fundraiser. NWDHR also thanks Larry & Cindy Griffin, Iverson Construction and Northern Hills FCU for sponsoring a home during Group Workcamps Week.

The donations will help provide materials needed to help repair local area residents’ homes. Repairs offered through the Workcamp include interior and exterior painting, weatherization, porch construction and repair, wheelchair ramp construction, and other work.

Since 1992, NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources has provided a variety of programs and services that has assisted more than 800 low-and moderate-income families with the purchase of their homes. For more information about NeighborWorks’ programs and services, call 578-1401 or visit its website at www.neigborworksdhr.org.

Paint the Town 2011

2011-06-29T09:12:00.000-07:00

Northern and Southern Hills Residents Paint the Town

Deadwood SD- NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources and volunteers celebrated the 16th annual Paint the Town June 4th-11th. The event was apart of NeighborWorks American National NeighborWorks Week. Armed with paint brushes and cans of paint, residents from the Northern and Southern Hills painted a house in the communities of Box Elder, Lead, Deadwood, Edgemont, Sturgis and Rapid City.

Six homes were painted throughout the Black Hills. Including the first home that was painted for Paint the Town in 1994. Long time Deadwood resident Bill Auer has lived in his home for 75 years. Being located right on Main Street, and high traffic area, it is one of the first structures that many see when they enter Deadwood. To improve the visual impact and the quality of Mr. Bill Auer’s home volunteers scraped, painted and made the home shine. The first “Paint the Town” was held in June 1994 when 25 volunteers painted one house in Deadwood. Over the last 16 years, over 80 homes and over 3000 volunteers have dedicated time to this annual event. Paint the Town is not just for the homeowner, it has a positive affect on the whole community.

“Community improvement activities are a vital piece of neighborhood revitalization,” said Sharon Martinisko Community Outreach Coordinator of NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources. “The volunteers are making their neighbor’s homes look better, and in doing so you’re making the whole community look better. For most of these families, there’s no other way this is going to happen, and they just appreciate it so much.”

This year marked the 28th Anniversary of the event sponsored by NeighborWorks America. During National NeighborWorks Week, organizations across the country mobilize tens of thousands of business people, residents and government officials in a week of neighborhood change and awareness.

Plant Swap 2011

In the Lead-Deadwood area, volunteers planted flowers for Plant the Town, painted homes, and the Fourth Annual Community Plant Swap was held giving both new and experienced gardeners the opportunity to share and swap plants and ideas. NeighborWorks® weeks ended with a bang at the First ever Lead Live Open Summer Market. All of the events helped bring community members together. If you would like more information on NeighborWorks Week, or any of the other events that took place please contact NeighborWorks at 605-578-140.

NeighborWorks® ‘Paint the Town “is sponsored by NeighborWorks® America, South Dakota Housing Authority. Additional sponsors and volunteers for the 16th Annual Paint the Town Event include: Deadwood Gulch, TDG Communications, Lead Chamber, First Interstate Bank of Sturgis Lead/Deadwood and Rapid City, BoxElder Job Corp, Black Hills Baptist Church, Northern Hills Federal Credit Union, and Wells Fargo.

For More Information Contact

NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources

Media Contact: Sharon

605-578-1401

www.neighborworksdhr.org

###

Lead Live Brings Sunshine to Lead Main Street

2011-06-13T13:12:00.000-07:00

Over 200 community members came out and enjoyed Lead Live on June 11th. Can't wait to see you all again on July 9th! Spread the word!

Lead SD, June 11, 2011- Lead Live Open Summer Market kicked off with a bang. Over 200 community members gathered around Lead Main Street to celebrate community and enjoy music, food and home made items.

Music filled the air in down town Lead all night. Steve Thorpe, Fancy CreekJumpers, and Sioux Falls musician Shantel Bolks, brought their talents to Lead main street and helped us a celebrate the importance of community. Lead resident Kena Brown also performed her belly dance routine.

The residents of Lead made this event a success. Smiles and laughter kept the sun shining. Children enjoyed the jumping castle while parents and residents shopped at the local vendors.

“Lead Live is for the community of Lead, this event it to get the residents out and about and enjoy everything that Lead has to offer. Lead is a great community with lots of great ideas; Lead Live just helps bring all of the great ideas together!” NeighborWorks Marketing Director, Stephany Valkenburg.

Next month, July 9th Paul Kopco and Straight Shooter will be performing on the Lead Live Stage from 4pm-8pm.

Lead Live would like to thank all of the vendors, residents and sponsors that came out and supported the event. NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources, Lead Chamber, Homestake Visitor Center, Wharf Gold Resources, Deadwood/Lead Art Center, Black Hills Mining Museum, Golden Hills Resort, Lead Historic Opera House, First National Bank, The Lodge at Deadwood and Lead-Deadwood Community Foundation.

For more information on Lead contact NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resource at 605-578-1401 or find us on facebook @Lead Live.

The men of the hour! Fancy CreekJumpers kept Lead Live a Rockin! Thanks Guys! We are so lucky to have you in our community!

Shantel Bolks acoustic performance on the Lead Live Stage June 11, 2011. You are welcomed to come back share your talent with us anytime! We love it!!

The Poppe Family-Power of Partnerships

2011-05-12T10:25:00.000-07:00

On March 15^th, 2011 Amy and Jason Poppe relocated their growing family from a two-bedroom home in a high-crime neighborhood to a four bedroom, two-bath home in a family friendly neighborhood.

The family purchased their home with the assistance of NeighborWorks Dakota® Home Resources, South Dakota Housing Development Authority, USDA Rural Development, and Dakota Land Trust. Without these partnerships the Poppe’s would not have been able to afford their home. This project was made possible thanks to strong partnerships and the Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP). NeighborWorks® purchased 2104 Russet located in Rapid Valley in 2009, utilizing the NSP and USDA Rural Development funds. NSP was established through congress to help stabilize communities and neighborhoods in the wake of the foreclosure crisis.

To make this a safe home, 2104 Russet needed to be completely rehabbed and updated. The house had sat empty for two years and had a serious mold infestation. NeighborWorks gutted the basement, replaced all the flooring, repaired drywall, and updated the kitchen and bathrooms. To prevent future water damage, which gad caused the mold problem in the first place the property was landscaped to correct the negative grading issue.

This home is ideal for the Poppe family because it large enough to fit their growing needs, fits within their income and the home is next door to Amy’s parents. “ My Children get to grow in a safe neighborhood next to our family. This home was perfect for us!” Amy stated.

2104 Russet not only provided a safe and affordable home for the family, the improvements will help increase the property values in the neighborhood. The long-term effects of this project, and other NSP projects, are unlimited. Thanks to our strong partnerships, the Poppe family gets to continue making memories in a neighborhood that is already so dear to their family. Home is where the heart is and the neighborhood is what makes the memories complete.

Home Sweet Home- Partnerships Assist in Home Ownership

2011-04-11T14:37:00.000-07:00

In 2009 the city of Spearfish worked with the Dakota Land Trust and developers of the new McGuigan Ranch subdivision to purchase lots for the land trust. The city sells those lots to the Dakota Land Trust as they are needed, at a price of $5,000 each.

Dakota Land Trust now has five families in homes at McGuigan Ranch. The newest family in the Neighborhood is Jamie Krueger and her daughter Taylor. Jamie and Taylor moved into their new home the first week of April.

Thanks to the partnership with USDA Rural Development, Dakota Land Trust and NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources, Jamie Krueger was able to purchase her new home. Jamie said that she is thankful for all the programs that have assisted her throughout the home buying process. "I wanted to own a home, but as a single mom it was hard to imagine being able to afford a home, thanks to their programs I was able to purchase a beautiful home in a safe neighborhood".

NeighborWorks Daktoa Home Resources 2009 Annual Video

2011-02-11T10:31:00.000-08:00

The Harmon Family – Dedication and Hard Work Pays Off

2011-02-09T10:56:00.000-08:00

The Trailer House

“After three years of living in that trailer we knew we had to do something” Robin Harmon stated.

The Harmon family relocated from Nebraska to South Dakota in 2005. Due to the high cost of housing in the Black Hills, and lack of options they moved into a substandard trailer. Robin described the trailer as being a heat box in the summer, and a freezer in the winter. They looked for other housing options but everything was out of their price range.

Three years after living in a trailer house that was infested with mold, constantly leaking water and a falling ceiling the family knew they had to make a change. Rex and Robin asked around at work and NeighborWorks® was highly recommended.

The couple contacted NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources to begin the process of building credit and creating habits that would allow them to move into a new home. “The Harmon family attended all of our classes, improved their credit and stayed focused; their commitment shows that hard work pays off. They now have a safe place to call home”, NeighborWorks® Home Buyer Counselor Vonda MCcarty stated.

The Harmons New Home

The couples dedication and hard work paid off; two years later they now have a safe and affordable home. Robin stated, “The best part about owning our own home is we can do whatever we want, we can paint, we can plant a garden and we can improve the quality of our home without asking anyone, we have more freedom and less stress.” Rex said “it was a lot of work and it took a lot of patience, but we did our best and now we have a home.” When asked if he had any advice for other families that might be in a similar situation he said, “have patience, keep a budget, seek help and opportunities will come”.

The Bathroom

The Kitchen

Their Living Room

Applications Needed for Group WorkCamps. Home Rehab Repairs!

2011-01-12T12:05:00.000-08:00

NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources Plans to Bring up to 400volunteers to Sturgis to Improve the Homes of Local Area Residents

Deadwood, SD- NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources is hosting the sixth annual Group WorkCamp in July 10^th-16^th through out the Black Hills. Over 400 adult and teenage volunteers will provide free home repairs to over 70 local residents.

The repairs are being provided through the Group Cares (formerly Group Workcamps Foundation) program, sponsored locally by NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources. The Group Cares (formerly Group Workcamps Foundation) is a non-profit, interdenominational Christian volunteer home-repair organization headquartered in Loveland, Colorado. This summer, an anticipated 25,000 young people and adults will participate in 43 Workcamps in communities across the United States and Canada.

At each Workcamp, volunteers – all members of church youth groups – volunteer a week of their time to repair homes throughout the community. “This represents about 12,000 hours of volunteer labor, worth over $110,000, to the community,” said Sharon Martinisko, Community Outreach Coordinator of NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources.

“These really are remarkable young people,” said Jeff Thompson, of Group Cares (formerly Group Workcamps Foundation). “Each one is actually paying for the privilege of working in your community. Workcamp registration fees are used to cover our costs for food, insurance, and building materials.”

This year’s Workcamp will be housed at Sturgis Brown High School in Sturgis, “This incredible service to the area would be impossible without the wonderful cooperation of the Sturgis Brown High School,” remarked Ms. Martinisko of NeighborWorks. Group Cares (formerly Group Workcamps Foundation) will reimburse all lodging costs to Sturgis Brown High School.

NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources is a non-profit whose mission is to assist in providing decent, safe and affordable housing and revitalizing neighborhoods to improve the quality of life in our communities. NeighborWorks encourages anyone in need of assistance in doing home repairs to apply. Repairs offered through the Workcamp include interior and exterior painting, weatherization, porch construction and repair, wheelchair ramp construction, and other work. Residents in North Rapid City and the Northern Black Hills (within 40 minutes of Sturgis Brown High School) can

obtain an application online at www.nhsblackhills.org or by calling 578-1401 to have an application mailed. The Workcamp repairs will take place July 10 – 16^th, 2011. All applications are due to NeighborWorks by April 15^th.

###

Tour of Lights Brings in Food Donations for the Lords Cupboard in Lead

2011-01-07T08:35:00.000-08:00

NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources partnered with the Deadwood Trolley Department for the annual “Tour of Lights” to allow residents to see Christmas lights in the Lead and Deadwood areas while riding the Deadwood Trolley. Over 60 residents attended this years “Tour of Lights” and donated four boxes of nonperishable food. NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources collected the food for the Lords Cupboard in Lead. The Lords Cupboard accepts donations Monday from 9am-11:30am and Thursday from 3pm-5:30pm. For more information on Tour of Lights and NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources contact Sharon at 605-578-1401

Wells Fargo invests $250,000, donates $10,000 for Western South Dakota affordable housing initiatives

2011-01-06T11:02:00.000-08:00

Wells Fargo invests $250,000, donates $10,000 for
Western South Dakota affordable housing initiatives

DEADWOOD, S.D., Dec. 30, 2010 – Wells Fargo has made a $250,000 equity equivalent investment (EQ2) to NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources (NWDHR). The Wells Fargo Housing Foundation has made an additional $10,000 donation to NWDHR. These funds will help increase access to affordable housing for South Dakota residents.

“We appreciate the support of Wells Fargo and are excited to have access to additional funds to assist families with the purchase of a home or the maintenance of their homes,” said Joy McCracken, Executive Director for NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources.

This is Wells Fargo’s second $250,000 EQ2 investment in NWDHR, which will pass the EQ2 loan proceeds to its subsidiary, Neighborhood Lending Services, LLC. (NLS), a certified Community Development Financial Institution. NLS makes down payment and closing cost assistance loans and housing rehabilitation loans to residents in the northern Black Hills counties of Butte, Custer, Fall River, Lawrence, Meade, and non-metro Pennington. By providing lending capital to NLS, Wells Fargo is supporting NWDHR’s efforts to promote affordable home ownership and strengthen communities in western South Dakota.

“The investment and the donation support NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources’ mission to help provide safe, decent and affordable housing,” said John Senden, community banking president for Wells Fargo in Spearfish. “It’s our hope that these funds will improve the quality of life in our Western South Dakota communities.”

--more—

--Page 2--

Equity equivalent investments, or EQ2s, provide capital in the form of below-market-rate loans. They are a limited resource reserved for Well Fargo non-profit community development partners that are working to expand affordable housing, job creation and economic development in the communities where Wells Fargo does business.

About NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources
NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources (NWDHR) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation founded in 1992 that provides homeownership loan products, counseling, education and advocacy services to low- and moderate-income people in six western South Dakota counties. Previously known as Neighborhood Housing Services of the Black Hills, NWDHR maintains an “exemplary” rating as a member of the national NeighborWorks network.

About Wells Fargo
Wells Fargo’s Community Lending and Investment division provides debt and equity capital for economic development, job creation and affordable housing in areas of need nationwide. For more about Wells Fargo Community Lending and Investment: www.wellsfargo.com/communitylendingandinvestment

Wells Fargo provides financial services from 55 stores in 39 South Dakota and southwestern Minnesota communities and employs more than 4,000 team members throughout the region. Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) is a nationwide, diversified, community-based financial services company with $1.2 trillion in assets. Founded in 1852 and headquartered in San Francisco, Wells Fargo provides banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance through more than 9,000 banking stores, 12,000 ATMs, the Internet (wellsfargo.com and wachovia.com), and other distribution channels across North America and internationally. With more than 278,000 team members, Wells Fargo serves one in three households in America. Wells Fargo & Company was ranked #19 on Fortune’s 2009 rankings of America’s largest corporations. Wells Fargo’s vision is to satisfy all our customers’ financial needs and help them succeed financially.

# # #

American Dream Put Back on Track

2011-01-06T10:46:00.000-08:00

Belle Fourche, S.D., Dec. 30, 2010- Thanks to Wells Fargo and NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources (NWDHR) Kenneth Austin and Penny Wilson will finally get to live the American Dream.

Kenneth and Penny purchased their first home in 2008 with a Wells Fargo loan, and what they thought to be the American Dream shortly took a turn. At the time Belle Fourche was experiencing a seven-year drought, but once they moved in the rain started falling. Penny stated “I woke up one morning and the water was filling up our basement, and we have been dealing with it ever since”

The repairs needed for the home were too expensive for out of pocket cost. After several recommendations Kenneth and Penny contacted NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources.

With the assistance from NWDHR Home Rehab program, a $250,000 EQ2 Wells Fargo investment for affordable housing and forgivable Home Loans provided the family with funding to insert drain title around the house and remove and replace water damaged sheetrock in the basement.

NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources (NWDHR) is a non-profit corporation founded in 1992 that provides homeownership loan products, counseling, education and advocacy serves to low-and moderate-income people in six western South Dakota counties.

“The investment and the donation support NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources’ mission to help provide safe, decent and affordable housing,” said John Senden, community-banking president for Wells Fargo in Spearfish. “It’s our hope that these funds will improve the quality of life in our Western South Dakota Communities.

This is Wells Fargo’s second $250,000 EQ2 investment in NWDHR, which will pass the EQ2 loan proceeds to its subsidiary, Neighborhood Lending Services, LLC. (NLS), a certified Community Development Financial Institution. NLS makes down payment and closing cost assistance loans and housing rehabilitation loans to residents in the northern Black Hills counties of Butte, Custer, Fall River, Lawrence, Meade, and non-metro Pennington. By providing lending capital to NLS, Wells Fargo is supporting NWDHR’s efforts to promote affordable home ownership and strengthen communities in western South Dakota.

Kenneth and Penny stated that they are very excited for the rehab to be completed and said that it will get their American Dream back on track and make their home feel new again.

For more information on NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources and other programs that they offer please contact their office at 605-578-1401

Home For The Holidays

2010-12-09T09:10:00.000-08:00

(The Ryckman Children)

Home for the Holidays, is a phrase the Ryckman Family truly experienced this holiday season. The night before Thanksgiving, Eugene, his wife and their five children moved into their brand new five bedroom home located at McGuigan Ranch in Spearfish.

The Family had hopes that they would be moved in before the Thanksgiving Holiday and although the home was unfurnished the family woke up in their home Thanksgiving Day.

The family was able to relocate from a small apartment in Lead to a five-bedroom two-bathroom home in Spearfish.

The family is very thankful for their new home. Eugene stated that the best part about it is he knows his kids have a permanent place to grow.

The family purchased the home with the assistance from NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources, South Dakota Rural Development, and Dakota Land Trust. The Ryckmans were the 800th family to recieve assistance from NeighborWorks. Eugene stated that NeighborWorks made the process very easy and understandable. The Family will own their home and lease the Land from Dakota Land Trust. Dakota Land Trust takes the cost of land out of the home allowing the family to afford a house that that will fit all of their needs.

Welcome to your New Home!

NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources Kid Weird Event provide donation to Food Bank

2010-11-15T15:14:00.000-08:00

NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources Kid Weird Event provide donation to Food Bank
November 15, 2010

November 15, 2010- NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources annual Kid Weird Event collected and delivered over ten pounds of canned goods and a monetary donation of $64 for the Lord’s Cupboard.

Kid Weird is a free annual Halloween event for the community to come and enjoy. In return NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources asked that attendees donate canned food or monetary donation to help stock our local food pantry.

NeighborWorks Community Coordinator Sharon Martinisko stated “It is great to be able to bring folks together for a fun even, while helping our neighbors in need.

The Lords Cupboard accepts donations Monday from 9am-11:30am and Thursday from 3pm-5:30pm.

NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources would like to thank all of the volunteers and sponsors that made Kid Weird a successful event and thank all of the attendees that brought donations for the Lord’s Cupboard.
If you would like more information on the Lord’s Cupboard contact the Lord’s Cupboard at 605-584-3263 or Sharon Narem at 605-722-8640

NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources Stimulates the Economy

2010-10-28T07:40:00.000-07:00

NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources Stimulates the Economy

Deadwood, SD – October 7, 2010 Rural Development State Director Elsie M. Meeks and Area Director Tim B. Potts were in Deadwood today to present Neighborhood Housing Services of the Black Hills, Inc. DBA NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources (DHR) with three USDA Rural Development program funding awards.

“The federal funding will assist NeighborWorks DHR with completing final additions and improvements to their existing building, further economic development in western South Dakota, and assist in providing low cost, high quality and timely repairs for eligible homeowners,” said Meeks. “The funding represents the Obama Administration’s ongoing commitment to ensure that rural communities attract capital investments that lead to homeownership, business development and job creation.”

The three Rural Development awards presented today include a Community Facility Direct Loan of $150,000 which will be leveraged with an applicant contribution of $23,764 for a total of $173,764 which will assist with completing the second phase of the renovation to the existing building that houses their services; a Housing Preservation Grant of $54,518 to provide available loan and grant information, construction consulting and other housing related assistance – this grant will assist approximately 42 families; and a Intermediary Relending Program Loan of $750,000 to assist rural businesses and entrepreneurs obtain the financing they need to thrive, grow and create jobs.

“This is a very exciting day for NeighborWorks DHR! Thanks to USDA Rural Development we are enjoying a classroom for Homebuyers Education; we have funding to assist very low income homeowners with necessary repairs to their homes, and these funds will enable us to provide construction loans to build affordable homes for the low income families living and working in our communities,” said Joy McCracken, Executive Director of NeighborWorks DHR.

USDA Rural Development has eight offices in the state that assist rural communities. Office locations include a state office in Huron, along with area offices in Aberdeen, Mitchell, Pierre, Rapid City, Sioux Falls, Watertown, and Yankton.

USDA, under its Rural Development mission area, administers and manages more than 40 housing, business and community infrastructure and facility programs through a network of 6,100 employees located in 500 national, state and local offices. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America. Rural Development has an existing portfolio of more than $134 billion in loans and loan guarantees.

- USDA -

First Interstate Bank Donates $18,500 to NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resouces

2010-10-27T10:26:00.000-07:00

First Interstate Bank Donates $18,500 to
NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources.

DEADWOOD, SD (10/27/10) – First Interstate Bank President Shawn Rost and Credit Analyst Samantha Childress, presented a check in the amount of $18,500 on behalf of First Interstate Bank and The First Interstate Bank Foundation, to NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources Executive Director Joy McCracken.

NeighborWorks is a non-profit organization with a mission to create decent, safe, and affordable housing in Black Hills Communities by offering free Homebuyer’s Education classes, credit counseling, and housing rehab services. The donation proceeds from First Interstate Bank will benefit NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources community outreach programs which strive to organize block club, Paint the Town, Kid Weird, and Warm and Safe.

Joy McCracken Executive Director of NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources stated “We appreciate the continued support from First Interstate Bank and for having the foresight to understand the benefits of homeownership and the positive outcomes it has on our families and communities. Through these strong partnerships our programs and services will continue to flourish.”

Since 1992, NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources has provided a variety of programs and services that has assisted more than 800 low-and moderate-income families with the purchase of their homes. First Interstate’s on-going generosity provides financial support for the continuation of such programs and services to benefit the residents of our communities.

First Interstate Bank was the first to show their support and help kick off NeighborWorks Annual “Campaign for Neighborhood”. Shawn Rost stated, “We are pleased to show our continued support of the mission of NeighborWorks, we know these funds will be used to assist families in achieving the dream of homeownership in Western South Dakota”.

For more information about NeighborWorks’ programs and services, call 578-1401 or visit its website at www.neigborworksdhr.org.

Whats going on in your Community?

2010-10-13T10:51:00.000-07:00

Calendar of Events

October 29th- Kid Weird, Deadwood Chamber Pavilion. 4pm-8pm, Costume contest at 6pm.

November 4th- Casino Royal, Golden Hills Resort 5pm-8pm. Ten Dollars at the door. Food and Fun Provided,

November 9th- Deadwood Neighborhood Council meeting at 5:30pm located at the NeighborWorks Office. Contact Sharon for more information at 605-578-1401

Get Ready for the holiday season with your neighbors and let your Block be the best dressed during the Holiday season!

Upper Main Block CLub- November 20th

Burnham- November 27th

Rodeo Grounds- November 27th

Peck Garden- November 27th.

Presidential Neighborhood- November 28th (Soup Social to follow decorating)

Holiday Season is coming up and NeighborWorks and the Block Clubs know how to celebrate. Please contact Sharon or Stephany if you have an event that you would like added to the

Building
Neighborhoods
Together

How Can You Save

2010-10-13T10:49:00.000-07:00

How Can you Save
Here are several no- or low-cost weatherization measures homeowners can undertake to reduce their energy use this winter season.
o Turn down your thermostat to 68 degrees* or lower, or install a programmable thermostat. Depending on what you set your thermostat at and for how long, you could save 8 percent of your home’s heating energy consumption during the heating season.
*You may need to keep the thermostat set higher than 68 degrees for health reasons if a baby or elderly person is in the house.
Reduce water heater temperature setting.
o Set the water heater temperature as low as possible, but follow manufacturer recommendations for specific appliances.
o Insulate water heaters that are 10 years old and older, and hot water pipes.
Reduce hot water use.
o Install low-flow (two-gallons-per-minute or less) showerheads and faucet aerators.
o Take showers, not baths.
o Repair leaking faucets and water lines.
o Wash full loads of laundry and use cold water.
o Wash full loads of dishes. Select the energy-saver cycle, or simply open the dishwasher door once the cycle is complete to let the dishes air dry.
Let the sunshine in.
o Open the shades and curtains to allow sunlight to warm the inside of your home. Close them at night to help keep warm air in your home.
Clear a Space
o Clean air registers, baseboard heaters and radiators. Make sure they are not blocked by furniture, carpeting, drapes or other items.
“Most of us are familiar with recycle and reusing, but how often do we think of the third R - REDUCE? ‘Reduce’ is probably the most important of the three Rs because, if we reduced, it would limit the need to recycle and reuse.”
Catherine Pulsifer, from The “Reduce” of Recycle and Reuse

Warm and Safe

2010-10-13T08:18:00.000-07:00

Black Hills Power’s weatherization program, in partnership with NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources and Western South Dakota Community Action, assists selected customers who are unable to weatherize their own homes and also shares information about measures that customers can take to make their homes more energy efficient. Volunteers from Black Hills Power and NeighborWorks teamed up to provide this service to fifty households throughout Western South Dakota.

“NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources has worked to ensure our community members have decent, safe and affordable homes since 1992,” said Sharon Martinisko, Community Outreach Coordinator for NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources. “The weatherization partnership creates an opportunity to bring individuals in our community together to help homeowners in need throughout the Black Hills make their homes more energy efficient. Community volunteers make this event possible and successful.”
Over twenty volunteers came together on Saturday to help seven residents throughout Lead, Central City and Deadwood. Volunteers changed out light bulbs, caulked windows and cracks, installed insulation, wrapped water heaters, and covered windows. Black Hills Power donated all of the supplies including a new storm door for a Deadwood resident.

“Helping customers make informed energy decisions is a priority for Black Hills Power,” said Chuck Loomis, vice president, operations for Black Hills Power. “Energy consumption can be reduced through proper home weatherization and energy efficiency tactics. Many measures are simple to do, and most homes can be weatherized for approximately $100 or less.”

NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources would like to thank all of their partners and volunteers for Warm and Safe this year. It is community efforts
like this that show how important volunteering can be through out our communities. Warm and Safe

Baker Family

2010-07-07T08:01:00.000-07:00

The Baker Family is the sixth family to move into a Dakota Land Trust home. Thanks to the partnership with South Dakota Housing Development Authority, Rural Development, Dakota Land Trust and NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources, the Baker’s were able to move into a home that would fit their family needs.
When asked what the best part about owning a home is, Kellie explained “it has been so wonderful having our own home finally, a home that is sound and affordable, it has been so great to be able to pay our bills and make ends meet at the end of the month and still have a home that is enjoyable and the right size”.
The family has been busy making their house a home. The kids have a big yard to play in and Ted was able to build the garage, with the help from his family and the Christian Motorcycle Association. CMA volenteered their time and helped build the structure.
Dakota Land Trust would like to thank all of the partners that worked hard to help the Baker family get into a home. We can’t wait to see all the wonderful opportunities that owning a home will bring their family.

DAKOTA LAND TRUST HAS HELPED MAKE THE DREAM OF
HOMEOWNERSHIP POSSIBLE FOR 11 FAMILIES!
6 FAMILIES IN HOMES
5 HOMES UNDER CONSTRUCTI

2010-07-07T07:42:00.000-07:00

Lead/Deadwood Lions club and NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources joined forces to help provide a wheel chair ramp for Deadwood resident Mike Ray. Mike suffered from a stroke that has left him in a wheel chair. Thanks to the volunteers
of the Lions Club, and the Rehab loan from
NeighborWorks®, Mike and his wife Carolisa had a wheel chair ramp waiting for them when they got home from the hospital.
Carolisa stated that she is so thankful for the Lions Club’s hard work. She was unsure of how she would get her husband in and out of their home. The stairs wrapped around both sides, leaving it very difficult to accommodate a wheel chair. “Even with the rain they completed the ramp, and they did a spectacular job, we are more than thankful”.
The Lion’s Club members put a total of 101 man-hours into the 42inch ramp; they had six volunteers from the Lead/Deadwood area and four from Rapid City. Cris Dittes a Lead/Deadwood member stated that everyone had a good time, and it was a worthy cause to be involved in. The Lead/Deadwood Lions Club does various volunteer projects that serve the Black Hills area. Cris said that we follow our slogan “ We serve”.
The giving did not stop here, the remaining materials from the wheel chair ramp are being donated to another resident that was recently injured and needs materials for a wheel chair ramp. The Rays said that they know how expensive materials are, and want to help another community member out to keep the circle going.
NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources would like to thank the volunteers that helped Mike and Carolisa build their wheel chair ramp. Their hard work shows what a great community we live in, and is proof that volunteering can bring communities together

Paint the Town

2010-05-19T14:14:00.000-07:00

For Immediate Release:
Media Contact:
Erin Sabers
NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources
Community Outreach Coordinator
erin@nhsbh.org
605-578-1401

Paint the town
May 4, 2010- NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources is looking for volunteers to donate their time from June 7th through the 12th. Volunteers will help residents from Spearfish, Lead, Deadwood and Sturgis, paint their home.
NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources is a private non-profit organization that works to assist families with their dream of homeownership and revitalize communities to improve the quality of life. NeighborWorks has sponsored Paint the Town since 1994. The event helps selected residents receive a fresh coat of paint on their homes. The event is co-sponsored by South Dakota Housing Development Authority's "Paint South Dakota" program and Deadwood Historic Preservation and has been held in the communities of Central City, Deadwood, Edgemont, Hot Springs, Lead, Spearfish, Sturgis and Rapid City. Since 1994, volunteers throughout our communities have painted over 74 homes. We need you
If you or anyone you know would like to volunteer their time, please contact NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources.
For more information on the Paint the town or any other programs that NeighborWorks Dakota Resources offers please contact
NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources
795 Main Street
Deadwood S.D 57732
605-578-1401

###

May Day Event!

2010-05-19T14:10:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources®
Stephany Valkenburg
605-578-1401
Stephany@nhsbh.org
www.nhsblackhills.org
May Day Family BBQ
Deadwood, S.D, May 1 — Spring showers bring May Flowers, the rain and snow could not stop a spring celebration. NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resouces ® welcomed spring by hosting their first annual May Day Celebration. Families from Deadwood and surrounding areas gathered at Deadwood Stage Run to welcome spring and plant spring flowers. Children and adults enjoyed the afternoon with a free family BBQ, crafts, and games.
The families that participated created their own May Day baskets and learned why we celebrate May Day. Although the traditions for May Day vary from place to place, the tradition that has stuck for centuries is sharing the beauty of spring.
Six-year-old Augstina Coatney was one of the children that attended the May Day Celebration. She said that she really enjoyed planting the flowers and making her basket, but her favorite part was flying her new kite.
Even with the light snow falling down, the wind was just right to fly the kites high in the sky.
NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources Marketing Director, Stephany Valkenburg stated, “The purpose of The May Day Family BBQ is to celebrate the value of community and help bring residents together. Even though we did not have the perfect spring weather we had a successful event, we can’t wait to do it again next year”.
NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources® would like to thank Coca Cola Bottling Company, Lyn’s Dakota Mart, Dakota Territory Federal Credit Union, and First Western Bank for their donations.
The May Day Celebration is just the kick off for the summer events that NeighborWorks has planned. NeighborWorks will also participate in Paint the Town, and Plant the Town in June. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about any of the programs that NeighborWorks offers please contact.
For additional information, Contact: Neighbor Works Dakota Home Resources ®
Stephany Valkenburg
605-578-1401
Stephany@nhsbh.org

###

2010-02-23T12:19:00.000-08:00

For Immediate Release:

Media Contact:

Stephany Valkenburg
NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources
Marketing Director
stephany@nhs.org

605-578-1401

Local Sturgis Resident gets a Home Makeover

February 22, 2010-Local Resident gets a home makeover thanks to NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources. NeighborWorks® completed a rehab project to help make a Sturgis home safe for single mom and her children.

Tiffany Bailey contacted to NeighborWorks regarding the safety of her home. Her basement bathroom had visible mold, and she had concerns about the electrical wiring. Being a single mother of three and with another one on the way, the home improvements needed would be too costly for Tiffany to afford by herself. Thanks to NeighborWorks her home was able to get the makeover that it needed at an affordable cost. NeighborWorks helped replace the kitchen floor, finished the basement and complete electrical upgrade. The home also had a complete mold remediation to ensure the air was clean for Tiffany and her boys. Tiffany is very thankful for the rehab assistance that was provided by NeighborWorks, “I cannot begin to express my gratitude to the people at NeighborWorks; especially to Robert Thorp. I can come home every night and know my boys are breathing fresh air and that we are living in a safe environment”.

NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources is a private non-profit organization that works to assist families with their dream of homeownership and revitalize communities to improve the quality of life. Through partnerships with South Dakota Housing Development Authority and USDA Rural Development, NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources receives funding to provide rehab assistance to low to moderate income families. The rehab program offers assistance to residents like the Bailey family and offers a variety of programs for future and existing home owners.

For more information on the Home Rehab Assistance or any other programs that NeighborWorks Dakota Resources offers please contact

NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources

795 Main Street

Deadwood S.D 57732
605-578-1401

###