Much like the population it serves, the affordable housing industry is full of diverse housing providers.

In an effort to highlight our employees and their unique affordable housing journeys, Quadel features staff members in its series: Passionate People. This week’s feature is Rose Santana, the Operations Supervisor for the Quadel-managed Housing Choice Voucher program at the Newark Housing Authority. In this role, she ensures staff are following program rules and regulations and families are helped in a timely and friendly manner. She discusses her unique start to her housing career and her motivation to improve affordable housing Newark residents.

How did you get into the affordable housing industry?

“I actually have a degree in Homeland Security and criminal investigations. I was working on a foreclosure project with Bank of America regarding families misled on mortgages, and then Hurricane Sandy happened. When the natural disaster happened, I personally didn’t have the resources to assist me while trying to maintain my home. I started working for the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs on the Sandy Relief Project and saw families who lost everything they had. This is when I decided I wanted to work in the industry – to help families be more aware of resources and the affordable housing industry.”

 What do you like most about working in the affordable housing industry? 

“The best reward about working in the industry is the ability to directly make a significant positive impact on people’s lives by providing them with safe, stable housing. I love contributing to the improved quality of life for low-income individuals and families within a community and knowing that the work we do creates a tangible difference in someone’s life every day. I also enjoy educating families on the possibility of owning a home while being on the Section 8 program. It does not mean you cannot be a homeowner and not be able to live that dream. Anything is possible.”

What continues to surprise you about affordable housing?

“Affordable housing shortages are a long-standing challenge within all communities. A lack of affordable housing can have many negative effects on families. Unfortunately, the Housing Choice Voucher program still has a negative narrative even though it has so much of a positive impact on a family.”

 What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned from working in the affordable housing?

“I’ve learned a few. First, the critical importance of adaptability and continuously learning about the industry. The market is constantly evolving, so it’s important to educate families on resources (they may not have known about.)” Second, never judge a book by its cover.”

Why is affordable housing important, and why should people care about the services we provide? 

“It is important because it improves quality of life, economic development and reduces homelessness. Providing affordable housing options can significantly decrease the number of people experiencing homelessness.”

What is your goal/motivation as a professional housing provider?

“My motivation to keep moving forward is because the work we do impacts hundreds of families. I never lose sight of this and treat everyone as I would want to be treated.”