Photo courtesy of Community Lodgings
Community Lodgings
Community Lodgings announced Wednesday that its Chirilagua–Arlandria Resident Equity Solutions (CARES) program has been honored with the Innovation in Housing Award at the Virginia Governor’s Housing Conference.
This distinction recognizes organizations that introduce bold, forward-thinking strategies to expand affordable housing and strengthen community resiliency across the Commonwealth.
The Innovation in Housing Award highlights unique collaborations, advocacy efforts, new technologies, and innovative housing types or materials not commonly used in the state. It acknowledges innovative approaches that increase access to affordable housing, strengthen housing resiliency and durability, foster creative partnerships, use advanced or non-traditional materials, technologies, or housing models, support public awareness strategies that advance housing opportunities, and create impact in both multifamily and homeownership settings.
“Every year at the Virginia Governor’s Housing Conference, we take time to recognize outstanding, impactful, and creative work of our partners that exemplify extraordinary efforts to address housing needs across the Commonwealth. Community Lodgings’ CARES program, a resident leadership program which empowers residents to participate in the decision-making process impacting their community, is a standout example of the innovative work taking place in the Commonwealth, and importantly, a program that can serve as a model for housing partners across Virginia,” said Chris Thompson, director of Strategic Housing at Virginia Housing.
Developed in partnership with the residents of Chirilagua–Arlandria, the CARES program centers community leadership as the driver of housing solutions. To date, 24 community members have stepped forward as Key Leaders, guiding program priorities and shaping strategies that reflect the neighborhood’s vision for stability and growth. CARES has also strengthened partnerships—recent collaborative community events and open houses have connected families with resources, deepened engagement, and expanded the program’s Community Ambassadors' presence, who play a vital role in building trust and supporting resident-led decision-making.
“Receiving the Governor’s Housing Innovation Award affirms the power of bold thinking and community-driven solutions. Our team is committed to pushing boundaries, challenging the status quo, and delivering programs that make a real and lasting impact for the families we serve," said Lynn Thomas, executive director, Community Lodgings.
Community Lodgings expresses its appreciation to Joseph Browne Development Associates for nominating the organization for this award; to its board and staff for their dedication and commitment to the mission; to Virginia Housing for their dedication and partnership in supporting the Chirilagua–Arlandria community; and especially to the Chirilagua–Arlandria community, whose leadership, collaboration, and advocacy are shaping a stronger, more equitable future for their neighborhood.
To learn more about Community Lodgings, please visit www.communitylodgings.org.
About Community Lodgings
Founded in 1987, Community Lodgings’ mission is to lift families from homelessness and instability to independence and self-sufficiency through Transitional Housing, Affordable Housing, and Youth Education Programs. Learn more on www.communitylodgings.org, Facebook, or Instagram.
