Addressing housing and neighborhood revitalization needs in Georgia’s rural and small towns: A study of the Georgia Initiative for Community Housing

Abstract

This study examines the role of the Georgia Initiative for Community Housing, a capacity building program, in increasing human and community capital to address housing and community development needs. Consistent with previous research on rural and small towns, poor housing conditions, infrastructure problems, and lack of funding for neighborhood revitalization were among the most pressing problems identified by program participants. Participation in the program appeared to improve housing-related human capital and the use of housing and community development tools and programs for the 25 communities in the study. Though limited in scope, this research begins to fill a gap in understanding of how local communities can build capacity to respond to local housing and neighborhood needs. Future research using qualitative data would provide clarification of some findings and add context to the broader study results.

Keywords:

• Affordable housing
• neighborhood revitalization
• rural communities
• social capital