Pre-Conference Sessions

Back by popular demand! Once again the Governor’s Housing Conference is pleased to offer the following continuing education unit (CEU) opportunities for industry professionals.

Earthcraft Green Communities and Buildings
Imagine - not just green and energy efficient structures but entire green communities! This is the vision of Earthcraft, a nationally recognized award-winning multifamily and single family green building program. Gain a better understanding of what it means to construct Earthcraft/LEED certifiable structures. This workshop will cover the fundamentals of good building science including insulation, moisture, materials, windows, indoor air quality issues, site selection, water efficiency, ventilation, HVAC issues and many related topics.

Fair Housing
Fair and accessible housing: two important goals tied together through intricate laws and regulations. Receive an in-depth overview of the Virginia Fair Housing Law - including the technical requirements for multifamily dwellings. Following that extensive general overview, participants will engage in a spirited discussion on the issues of accessible housing. This session will provide information on disability discrimination under the Fair Housing Law and the issues posed to housing providers by returning veterans needing accessible housing and related services.

In addition! Take advantage of these opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge.

FHA 101
Due to the rising prominence of foreclosure related issues, the Federal Housing Administration has assumed a higher profile in helping to craft mitigating strategies.  The FHA was established to improve housing standards and conditions and to provide an adequate home financing system through insurance of mortgages. This session will provide you with valuable, in-depth information on how you can employ the products and services that will continue to support homebuyers and stabilize housing markets in your communities.

Media and Policy Training
Are you maximizing the opportunity to promote affordable housing with your city, county, and even state leaders?  Through this workshop, media and public relations experts will use video feedback to build your effectiveness!

You will be provided with the tools and proven techniques that will help you to drive the process when dealing with decision makers and the general public.  In addition to useful information and data, this interactive session will include: role playing and critical take-away sheets.

Grants on Track
Dreading an upcoming grant audit or review?  Struggling with selecting the most effective tracking system or monitoring approach? This workshop will provide you with the latest best practices on:

• Program and budget management – Including important compliance and eligibility issues Program and financial monitoring – What should be monitored – and how.
• Contracting and procurement – How to ensure that materials and services are obtained in a cost effective manner and in compliance
• Other issues related to managing federal grant funds – Including: Limited English Proficiency; Energy Efficiency; Regulatory Barriers; Healthy Homes, and Lead Hazard Control.