CONVERGENCE in Action: Bite-Sized Education for the Homebuying Journey
Date: November 12
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM ET

Registration Link: https://www.mba.org/conferences-and-education/event/2026/11/12/default-calendar/convergence-in-action-bite-sized-education-for-the-homebuying-journey-83371

This webinar builds on findings and lessons featured in a recent CONVERGENCE case study available on the Knowledge Hub, highlighting the development of Skip the Inspection: A Video Series for First-Time Homebuyers in Columbus. Participants will learn how bite-sized consumer education can help address common challenges in the homebuying journey and explore practical approaches for creating effective consumer education resources in their own communities.

This webinar also marks the launch of a new quarterly webinar series that will spotlight innovative practices and lessons emerging from CONVERGENCE case studies across the network.

Featured Speakers

• Anna Teye-Kasongo, Assistant Executive Director, ACHC/CONVERGENCE Columbus (Moderator)

• Gloria Anderson, Housing Counselor, Homeport

• James Jones, Founder, Home and Community Inspection LLC

• Lara Alsoudani Weeks, Partner and Creative Director, Fringe22

Free Registration for Nonprofit Partners
We are pleased to offer complimentary registration to nonprofit partners using code CONVERGENCE100.

Registration Link: https://www.mba.org/conferences-and-education/event/2026/11/12/default-calendar/convergence-in-action-bite-sized-education-for-the-homebuying-journey-83371

SPARK! 2026

An evening celebrating compassion, resilience, and the power of community.

• Wednesday, November 11, 2026

• 6:00 - 8:00 PM

Every year, SPARK! brings together our community to create brighter futures.

SPARK! is an inspiring evening that fuels life-changing programs and support for individuals and families across Central Ohio. Together, we create a stronger, more compassionate community

Learn more: https://jfscolumbus.org/spark2026/

Join us for a timely MBA Town Hall briefing, featuring a comprehensive post-election update. This webinar offers an important opportunity for MBA President & CEO Bob Broeksmit, CMB, to provide insights on the election results and their implications for the broader mortgage industry.

You’ll also hear from MBA’s Legislative & Political Affairs team, who will provide a recap of the election and discuss the policy landscape heading into the next session of Congress, including key priorities and advocacy opportunities. 

To maximize our time together, please submit questions in advance to townhall@mba.org.

MAA members can receive complimentary access to this webinar by adding promo code MAA2026 to their registration.  

By registering for this MBA event, you are agreeing to join/renew your membership in MBA's Mortgage Action Alliance (MAA) for one year (365 days) from the date of your action. Please note that you may terminate your membership at any time by emailing maa@mba.org. There are no membership dues.

Learn more: https://www.mba.org/conferences-and-education/event/2026/11/10/default-calendar/mba-town-hall-maa-post-election-special-edition-83314?utm_campaign=POL%3A%20Town%20Hall%20with%20MBA%20Leadership%20-%20November%202026%20-%20E3%20to%20MBA%20Members%20%28Opens%20%2B%20Web%20Visits%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua

ADUs: Where Are We Now?

In 2025, the City of Columbus beacme one of the first communities to re-legalize Accessory Dwelling Units to expand housing choices for residents and help members of the community age in place.

Join a virtual community conversation with the architect of that policy change, Former Councilmember Otto Beatty, Columbus’ Building & Zoning Services, and advocates from around the region to discuss what has happened since, where housing barriers remain, and what the future may hold.

Virtual location

You will receive a confirmation email with a URL.

Learn more: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/24artzf/lp/3b03c8d4-c70c-4763-aada-1090348cf058?mode=preview&source_id=54875ffa-b922-4ca6-b4f0-fb2e944170f5&source_type=em&c=${Contact.encryptedContactId}

Rethinking Housing
People • Property • Capital • Partnerships

📅 Friday, November 6, 2026
⏰ 4:30–9:30 PM
📍 Embassy Suites by Hilton Columbus Dublin
5100 Upper Metro Place, Dublin, OH 43017

Hors d'oeuvres • Development • Connections • Happy Hour 🥂

Building for the Future has always been about bringing the right mix of people into the room.

This year, we're bringing together professionals across real estate, housing, construction, development and capital to have meaningful conversations about how housing gets created, financed, built, operated and connected to the people who need it.

We'll hear perspectives from single family and multifamily developers, lenders and capital professionals, shared-living developers, housing and community organizations, and professionals working directly with families and housing needs.

And we're doing it a little differently.

Our featured guests will have an opportunity to share their individual perspectives before coming together for a 90-minute Developers & Decision Makers panel focused on:

People. Property. Capital. Partnerships.

Then we're closing out the evening the way some of the best business relationships begin with cocktails, conversation and time to actually connect. 🥂

Who should be in the room?

Developers. Investors. Property owners. General contractors and trades. Architects. Engineers. Lenders. Bankers. Realtors. Brokers. Property managers. Housing organizations. Nonprofits. Suppliers. Consultants. Attorneys. Accountants. Title and insurance professionals. Emerging developers and anyone whose work touches real estate, housing, construction or development.

Different perspectives. One room.

We're also opening opportunities for featured speakers, VIP tables and industry vendors.

I've attached information for anyone interested in being considered as a featured guest, reserving a VIP table for their company or guests, or participating as an industry vendor.

Tickets will be opening soon.

If you had Saturday, November 7 saved, please update your calendar to:

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6 | 4:30–9:30 PM

I'm excited about this one. I want this to be a room where you enjoy yourself, learn something, meet someone new and leave with at least one connection you need to call on Monday.

Come ready to learn, connect, collaborate, invest and celebrate.

Housing People. Building Possibilities.

See you November 6! 🥂

Learn more here: https://centralcontractorsredevelopmen.ticketspice.com/developers-decision-makers-rethinking-housing

Coffee & Whatever

First Fridays at Noon

Have a wild idea you want to soundboard? Looking to vent (fair, TBH)? Seeking a new nerdy housing friend? Want to give & get book recommendations? Just enjoy espresso and good company? Join AHACO’s Coffee & Whatever for unstructured fun.

We’ll meet on the first Friday of each month at noon at a local coffee shop.

November 6th is at Royal Flamingo (inside I Like It Like That Bar) at 945 King Ave, Columbus, OH 43212.

No gilded invites, no RSVPs, just swing by and grab a coffee.

Conversations are always free, but drinks are on your own dime.

The 60-day public comment period for Zone In Phase II: Economic and Housing Opportunity concluded on October 24. Thank you to everyone who took the time to review the proposal, complete a survey, attend a public meeting, visit the Zone In Gallery, or share their thoughts with the Zone In team.  

We appreciate the perspectives you've brought to this process. The feedback we received will help guide the team's review of the draft proposal and consideration of potential revisions before a final proposal is presented to Columbus City Council. 

Upcoming Public Hearing: November 5

Columbus City Council will hold its third Zone In Phase II public hearing this Thursday, November 5, focusing on a summary of the feedback received during the 60-day public comment period. 

Hosted by Council President Pro Tem Rob Dorans, the hearing is an opportunity to hear what residents and stakeholders shared about the proposal and learn more about the input received from across the community. 

Hearing Details

• Date: Thursday, November 5, 2026

• Time: 6 p.m. 

• Location: Columbus City Council Chambers, 90 W. Broad Street

You're welcome to attend in person or watch live on Youtube or Facebook. If you'd like to submit written testimony or sign up to speak at the hearing, please email kbmccain@columbus.gov

The draft Phase II proposal, proposed zoning maps and an overview of the proposed changes remain available at columbus.gov/zoningupdate .

We appreciate your continued interest and involvement in Zone In. Your participation is helping inform this next stage of the process as we work to modernize Columbus' zoning code and prepare for future growth. 

Sincerely,

The Zone In Columbus Team 

Columbus Redevelopment Corporation - 2nd Annual Event

Celebrate CRC’s progress, hear what’s ahead for 2027, and join a conversation about inclusive housing for people with disabilities.

Join the Columbus Redevelopment Corporation staff and board for our 2nd Annual Event as we celebrate the past year and look ahead to 2027.

We’ll share updates on CRC’s development projects, partnerships, and technical assistance work, as well as lessons we’ve learned while working to expand affordable and attainable housing opportunities throughout Columbus.

The evening will also feature a conversation about housing opportunities for people with disabilities. We’ll explore the need for more accessible and inclusive housing and the roles developers, policymakers, nonprofits, and communities can play in creating it.

Come connect with CRC’s board, staff, partners, and friends as we reflect on our progress and the work ahead.

Learn more: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/columbus-redevelopment-corporation-2nd-annual-event-tickets-2000518889852

Leveraging Public Incentives for Community Development

Join Taylor Stepp, Founder & President of Strategic Development Partners for a webinar covering:

- Adding tax incentives such as tax abatements, New Community Authorities, and Tax Incrememnt Financing to projects. 

- Leveraging the Vibrant Community program from JobsOhio for mixed-use development. 

- Financing projects with tools such as PACE, New Markets Tax Credits, Opportunity Zones, and other loan programs. 

Learn more: https://web.ohiocdc.org/atlas/events/leveraging-public-incentives-for-community-development-1117/details

Small Loans, Big Barriers

How Small-Dollar Mortgages Impact the Racial Homeownership Gap in the United States

Free

November 4, 2026

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM EST

Virtual

Please join New America’s Future of Land and Housing (FLH) program on November 4, 2026, from 12:00–1:00 PM ET for a virtual discussion for the launch of its new report, Small Loans, Big Barriers: How Small-Dollar Mortgages Impact the Racial Homeownership Gap in the United States.

Report authors Sabiha Zainulbhai, Deputy Director of FLH, and Craig J. Richardson, Professor of Economics at Winston-Salem State University, will join FLH Director Yuliya Panfil to discuss the report’s key findings and recommendations, including:

• The impact of declining small-dollar mortgage lending: A quantitative analysis of how the decline in small-dollar mortgage lending over the past two decades has affected Black homeownership relative to white homeownership nationwide.

• A roadmap for action: An assessment of 15 policy, programmatic, and financing approaches, alongside 45 targeted actions that federal, state, and local policymakers can take to expand access to small-dollar homeownership.

The conversation will also explore the implications of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act for small-dollar homeownership, followed by an opportunity for audience questions and discussion.

Learn more: https://events.newamerica.org/events/small-loans-big-barriers/

Rent Escrow Brief Advice Clinic

Attorneys will be available to give advice on rent escrow and will answer questions like: Is the case ready to file? What are the next steps after filing?

Location: Franklin County Municipal Court, 3rd floor, outside of the rent escrow clerk window. All times are 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Dates:

July 1

August 3

September 1

October 1

November 2

December 1

Community Engagement Strategies for Economic Development 

Friday, October 30, 2026

10:30 - 11:30 AM

In partnership between the Ohio Economic Development Association and MurphyEpson 

Economic developers need to be ready for and get ahead of questions surrounding projects and their hot topics like data centers, renewable energy, rezoning, affordable housing, and more.

Today, opposition is organized, trust is low, and the stakes are high. MurphyEpson’s communications and engagement professionals work with public, private and nonprofit clients to bring communities along every day.

Please join us for a practical dialogue on community engagement strategies for economic development on Friday, October 30, 2026 at 10:30am. 

This webinar will help you:

• -           Anticipate tough questions

• -           Engage residents and community organizations

• -           Prepare partners and elected officials

• -           Build a communications strategy

• -           Work with the media

• -           Address misinformation

• -           Build trust before opposition gains momentum

Learn more: https://oeda.wildapricot.org/event-6846705

How Mission-Driven Organizations Can Take on Housing Development in Columbus

Join the City of Columbus, Enterprise Community Partners, and the Affordable Housing Alliance of Central Ohio for a webinar exploring the growing movement of mission-driven organizations leveraging their land and community assets to address the affordable housing crisis.

Participants will learn about the new Mission-Driven Affordable Housing Initiative and how to apply. Modeled on Enterprise’s Faith-Based Development Initiative, the program will provide real estate development training for mission-driven organizations working within the City of Columbus.

The training will be particularly relevant for organizations that have a strong community mission, access to land or other real estate, and an interest in using their assets to help address Columbus’ affordable housing needs. This session will also examine the evolving policy landscape at the federal, state, and local levels, including the 21st Century Road to Housing Act, Ohio's Promise Land Act, and the City of Columbus' "Yes in God's Backyard" legislation, all of which are creating new opportunities for faith-based and mission-driven organizations to advance affordable housing development.

Learn more: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_0ZEpeQMfRdm4HVUD7BdmgA#/registration

When it comes to affordable housing, we know the WHY.

It’s Time to focus on the HOW.

Not just another event about the scarcity of affordable homes, Housing Forward Columbus will offer key decision-makers a rare opportunity to engage in candid discussions about how to make affordable feasible. This unique networking opportunity and expert panel presentation will provide insights that help design a more complete blueprint of what works – and what more could be done - to successfully build, finance, approve, support and operate affordable housing.

Join us: Friday, October 23, 2026 6–9 p.m.

Doors open at 6, Program starts at 7.

The Little Grand Market | Upstairs

710 Grandview Xing Way, Columbus, OH 43215

Learn more: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/housing-forward-columbus-tickets-2000320592740

The probability that a child does not live to celebrate their first birthday, the infant mortality rate (IMR), is widely accepted as an indicator of overall well-being of a population. The racial disparities in IMR are a long-standing problem, both nationally and locally in Central Ohio. IMR disparities are often place-based and are the result of policies and practices that have created and maintained the disparate opportunity landscape. Beginning to undo the effects of these policies on disparities in IMR and health outcomes at the community level will require understanding the ways that the policies have been experienced by women, identifying avenues for targeted investment designed to create meaningful change, and making financial commitments to improve outcomes. The TIME Study tells the story of Columbus, Ohio’s Linden neighborhood, a historically disinvested community that has been devastated by decades of disparate policies and high IMR. This mixed-methods study uses information gathered through an extensive policy inventory of the neighborhood, qualitative interviews with Black women, and engagement with residents to understand the “why” of the neighborhood deprivation that imperils birth outcomes for Black infants to tailor future investment strategies.

Learn more: https://osu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_HqLE8v8qSRmXGJsWrGYvQg?_x_zm_rtaid=JWmI5YsCRi6L1o6MN1CRAQ.1787671639328.9f6b54a8b7f4c03a6ae2ee71aede3481&_x_zm_rhtaid=305#/registration

Unpacking The Shortage Report: What Federal Data Reveals About Gaps in Resources to End Homelessness

Date & Time

Oct 22, 2026 12:00 PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Description

The National Alliance to End Homelessness’ new findings in The Shortage Report demonstrate that homeless service providers do not receive enough funding to rehouse everyone in need. Despite a proven track record of helping people find and stay in affordable housing, persistent resource shortages make it impossible for them to serve everyone experiencing homelessness. Learn more about the report’s key findings and steps you can take to urge your elected leaders to address these shortages.

Learn more: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_pHE1A8xURvOWbKRy_sa1aw?utm_source=Master+Email+List&utm_campaign=06f806bb09-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2025_09_22_03_36_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_1cf64328bb-eba1f44fff-270588345#/registration

Ripple of Hope Awards Celebration

IMPACT Community Action has prioritized the fight against poverty and has worked to address its root causes in Central Ohio for almost 20 years. Each year, we support individuals in our community through a variety of services, including housing stability, utility assistance, emergency rental aid, workforce development training, youth services, and energy efficiency programs.

This year’s theme, “Let's Get Back To Work,” focuses on workforce development that empowers Columbus residents to build the skills, confidence, and connections needed to succeed in today’s labor market. The goal is to support their journey toward long-term economic security — including financial stability, self-sufficiency, and lasting opportunities for those in our community.

We invite you to join us on Thursday, October 22, 2026, for the Annual Ripple of Hope Awards Celebration at The Boat House, located at 679 W Spring St, Columbus, OH. The afternoon will honor community leaders who are making a tangible difference in the fight against poverty. Proceeds from the event will directly support our ongoing programs. Your participation and support will help make this event a success, and create the next drop in the ripple effect!

Learn more: https://impactca.networkforgood.com/events/98221-ripple-of-hope-2026?hid=MjI2NDc2MzM=&utm_campaign=dms_email_blast_4753893

Bloom614 Decoding the Housing Market: No Tricks, Just Treats

Columbus is one of the hottest housing markets in the nation. With rising prices, corporate investors snatching up homes, and high interest rates, homeownership feels increasingly out of reach for countless families. For many, the process of buying a home feels scary and less secure than ever before.

That’s why you’re invited to join Bloom614 and the National Fair Housing Alliance for an inclusive family event that connects you to reliable information, trusted partners, and free resources to move through your homeownership journey with confidence.

Columbus Airport Marriott
1375 N Cassady Ave, Columbus, Ohio, 43219, Columbus, OH 43219
View on map

Wednesday, October 21, 2026
06:00pm - 08:00pm

Learn more: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/fes3hb3/lp/c9320450-c124-437b-b074-30939a19773b?mode=preview&source_id=54875ffa-b922-4ca6-b4f0-fb2e944170f5&source_type=em&c=${Contact.encryptedContactId}

Are you thinking about buying a home?

Park National Bank’s $15,000 grant makes the dream more doable! Please join them for a free, informational homebuyer workshop in a relaxed setting.

Doors open at 5:00 and our presentation will begin at 5:30 p.m. Come a little early and enjoy a complimentary meal. Door prizes will be given away, too!

Park’s community home lenders will discuss:

• Park’s new $15,000 home loan grant program

• 100% financing options • The homebuying process

• Managing, building and improving your credit

• What it means to prequalify and how to do it

Learn more: https://parknationalcorp.com/common/mortgage/col_homebuyer_workshop_olg.pdf

Healthy Homes is opening the doors to our first-ever quadplex in North Linden, and we’d love for you to be part of the celebration! Join us for an inside look at this exciting new project and see how we’re creating more opportunities for affordable housing in our community.📍

2609 Greenwich Street
Columbus, OH 43211

📅October 21st | ⏰ 4-6 p.m.

Come tour, celebrate with us, and imagine what’s possible! We hope to see you there!

From Policy to Practice: Accelerating ADU Development Under the ROAD to Housing Act 

Join us Wednesday, October 21, 12:30pm - 1:30pm EST 

Our guest speakers will be...

Noerena Limón, Chief Executive Officer at Casita Coalition 

Anna Teye-Kasongo, Assistant Executive Director at Affordable Housing Alliance of Central Ohio (AHACO) 

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)—often called backyard casitas, garage conversions, or in-law suites—are a critical tool in increasing affordable housing in communities across the country.

The recent passage of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act opens powerful new opportunities to expand housing supply. The landmark legislation helps homeowners finance ADU construction by broadening access to government-backed, lower-down-payment loans. It also directs HUD to establish guidance and best-practice frameworks for state and local zoning regulations—easing restrictions on permitting, parking minimums, and lot density. 

Join NCST alongside guest presenters from Casita Coalition and AHACO for an insightful conversation on how local communities have championed ADUs and navigated accessible financing for them, and how the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act creates new momentum for ADU development in California, Ohio, and nationwide.

Learn more: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_daHrs9YgQReyp3h0ZfjK4g#/registration

Not a member? Set up a profile here to register for this class: https://form.columbusrealtors.com/d72cc1b7-0cf0-4f58-8c46-cf28bc17838f

This Lunch & Learn is brought to you by Columbus REALTORS® Affiliate Member Park National Bank

Affordable Housing in Central Ohio with instructor Leah Evan

2 HRS CE

Lunch by Blue Bow Tie

Learn more: https://columbusrealtors.com/events/affordable-housing-in-central-ohio-e8bf1720

Equitable Homeownership Solutions in an Evolving Landscape

Who is keeping housing justice at the top of Central Ohio's agenda?

Join CONVERGENCE Columbus, NAREB, and the National Fair Housing Alliance as we break down the 2026 State of Housing in Black America (SHIBA) report and the Fair Housing Trends report, and build real solutions to protect and expand homeownership for Black, minority, and first-generation families.

Learn more: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/q6588qh/lp/30c4f87c-d31c-478f-84b3-3737c21a65a4?mode=preview&source_id=54875ffa-b922-4ca6-b4f0-fb2e944170f5&source_type=em&c=${Contact.encryptedContactId}

Financing Cost-Rental Housing: A Low-Cost-of-Capital Approach to Supporting Below-Market Rents

Date & Time

Oct 16, 2026 12:15 PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Description

The cost of capital is a key driver of housing prices and rents. Chris Herbert will discuss a new paper proposing a federal program that would provide below-market-rate debt to public, private, and non-profit developers who agree to limit rents and prices to levels that cover the actual costs of projects. This "cost-rent" model, common in Europe and previously used in the US, comes with important trade-offs, but its appeal lies in being simple, scalable, and effective at supporting affordability over time.

Learn more: https://harvard.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_AbV-pLvMTFyIndMqIlALMQ?utm_source=JCHS+Mailing+List&utm_campaign=32e4566841-cost_rental_housing_2026&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-b95497d1bd-126611524#/registration

Come explore the newly released Zone In Phase II proposal with the Zone In team and city planners, learn what’s being proposed, share your questions and feedback. Phase II includes proposed updates to zoning regulations affecting mixed use, industrial, warehouse, business, and institutional areas across Columbus.

This is an open-house style event, no formal presentation and you’re welcome to stop by at your convenience between 5-7 PM

🗓️Thursday, October 15
⏰5 to 7 PM
📍141 N. Front Street
🅿️Free parking

L:earn more: https://www.instagram.com/p/DePKHWRxLi0/

Inclusive by Design

Accessibility isn't just compliance - it's what keeps community development ecosystems resilient. Like a flower that thrives when its environment is adapted, organizations grow stronger when they build workplaces where all staff can succeed.

This FREE seminar shows nonprofits how to make accessibility practical, low-cost, and mission-aligned — even with small teams and limited capacity.

You'll leave with:

• A clear understanding of neurodivergence and low-cost ways to make your workplace more accessible

• How accessible workplaces reduce burnout, retain talent, and unlock your team's full potential

• Why accessibility isn't separate from your mission; it's how you model the equity you want to see in your community

You don't need a big budget or an HR department to get started. In today's workplace, embracing neurodiversity and accessibility isn't just inclusion; it's strategy.

Learn more: https://web.ohiocdc.org/atlas/events/inclusive-by-design--1115/details

Next week, Councilmember Tiara N. Ross will host a Housing, Homelessness & Building Committee public hearing to discuss housing protections for victims of domestic violence.

Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/cbuscitycouncil/posts/next-week-councilmember-tiara-n-ross-will-host-a-housing-homelessness-building-c/1485746200039459/

Building Stronger Communities Together: The Vital Role of Volunteerism

Date & Time

Oct 14, 2026 02:00 PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Description

Join NHC and NeighborWorks America for a conversation on the role volunteerism plays in strengthening housing organizations and the communities they serve. This webinar will explore how organizations can build and coordinate effective volunteer programs, engage residents and community leaders, and connect volunteer service to broader organizational and community goals. Panelists will share perspectives highlighting resident leadership and corporate and community partners - offering approaches to volunteer recruitment, program infrastructure, community investment, and other volunteer initiatives that bring us all together to benefit the communities we live in.

Learn more: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_JFT3N7k2T0G1rDn4mE7APg#/registration

Homeport will host the 2026 Voice & Vision celebration in the Short North Ballroom at the Greater Columbus Convention Center on Wednesday, October 14 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Homeport is proud to celebrate 12 years of Voice & Vision, an event we host to celebrate peer leaders in affordable housing and show our gratitude to the partners who make our work possible. Voice & Vision also allows us to show the impact of that support – the communities created, the clients who became first-time homeowners, and the residents who benefited from our service and resource connection.

To learn more about Homeport, including Voice & Vision sponsorship opportunities, contact Homeport Senior Director of Resource Development Laverne D. Price at laverne.price@homeportohio.org or 614 545-4891.

Learn more: https://www.homeportohio.org/voiceandvision