The Housing Authority of the City of High Point (HPHA) is a pivotal organization committed to providing and supporting affordable housing in High Point, North Carolina. Since its establishment, HPHA has been instrumental in improving the quality of life for its residents through various programs designed to foster self-sufficiency and independence. With a focus on safe, affordable housing, the Authority offers a range of resources, including public housing, the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program, and initiatives aimed at promoting education and economic stability. This article presents an interview with key representatives from HPHA, exploring their background, journey, and insights on the role of public housing.
Reimagining Leadership, Culture, and Community Impact
What’s your “mic drop” moment—the one achievement that still gives you chills?
Without question, it’s standing on the grounds of what used to be Daniel Brooks Homes and seeing Legacy Ridge come to life. Watching former residents come back to see a place once marked by hardship transformed into a thriving, mixed-income community — that’s the definition of chills for me.
If HPHA were a person, what kind of personality would it have—and what’s its go-to karaoke song?
HPHA would be that relentless encourager in your life: empathetic but firm, someone who refuses to let you settle for less. Its karaoke song? Probably “Rise Up” by Andra Day. That’s the spirit we bring every day — for ourselves and our residents.
What’s one ‘crazy idea’ you had that worked, and what did people say before it did?
Launching the Seeds to Success program was seen by some as overly ambitious — mixing youth development, mentorship, financial literacy, and leadership training under one umbrella. Folks asked, “How are you going to sustain all that?” The answer: partnerships, persistence, and a belief in our kids that’s paid off every single day.
What’s your favorite resident story that made you laugh, cry, or both?
A mom recently brought me a graduation announcement for her daughter. Years ago, we’d worked through crisis after crisis to keep that family stable. Seeing that young woman walk across a stage to accept her diploma — that was tears, laughter, and pure joy rolled into one.
Which emoji best sums up HPHA’s energy right now—and why?
🔥 (fire). Because we’re on fire with new ideas, new developments, and a relentless drive to break old cycles. The momentum is real.
Breaking Myths and Building Futures
What’s one myth about public housing you wish you could erase forever—and how are you replacing it with truth?
That it’s just “the last stop.” Public housing is actually the starting line for many — the place they find stability to build better futures. We’re changing that narrative by focusing on mixed-income, high-quality developments that restore dignity and by telling our residents’ success stories.
If you had $10 million to reimagine one neighborhood in High Point, what would you build first, and who would you call to help?
I’d start with a multi-use community hub that combines affordable housing, job training facilities, childcare, and small business incubators. I’d call on the City of High Point, Laurel Street, our federal partners, and most importantly, the residents themselves to co-design it.
What’s a piece of advice you’d give to your younger self on Day 1 of working at HPHA?
You’re going to carry people’s stories home with you. That’s not a burden — it’s a privilege. And it’s also what will keep you fighting to do this work differently.
How do you celebrate the small wins, and who’s the team MVP when things get tough?
We celebrate with shout-outs at meetings, handwritten notes, and sometimes just by taking a quiet moment to say: “Hey, look at what we accomplished today.” As for MVPs, it’s impossible to pick one — our frontline staff, from housing specialists to maintenance, are often the unsung heroes who keep everything moving during the toughest times.
You’re on stage at a TEDx event in High Point—what’s the one message you want everyone to remember?
Housing isn’t just a roof. It’s hope. It’s health. It’s education. It’s an opportunity. If we get housing right, we unlock everything else. Never underestimate the power of where someone lays their head at night.
Point: Sustaining Impact and Charting Future Paths
Continuing from our previous discussion with representatives from HPHA, we delve deeper into their expertise, remarkable achievements, and future vision for public housing and community advancement.
Expertise and Vision
What are the primary areas of expertise that HPHA brings to the table in public housing development?
Our expertise lies in our comprehensive approach to housing and community development. We focus on integrating affordable housing with services that promote self-sufficiency — such as our public housing and Section 8 programs, along with initiatives like financial literacy and homeownership counseling. This holistic strategy ensures our residents are not just housed but are also equipped to thrive.
How does HPHA measure success beyond simply providing housing?
Success for us is measured by the empowerment and progress of our residents. We look at metrics like graduation rates from our programs, the number of residents moving into homeownership, and their increased economic stability. We also value qualitative success stories that highlight personal growth and community cohesion.
What do you see as the most significant challenge facing public housing today, and how is HPHA addressing it?
The biggest challenge is overcoming the stigma associated with public housing. We address this by continually improving the quality and image of our properties, creating mixed-income communities that reflect the diversity and potential of High Point. Education and community engagement also play crucial roles in shifting perceptions.
Achievements and Impact
Can you share a recent achievement that showcases HPHA’s impact on the community?
One of our notable achievements is the successful transformation of Daniel Brooks Homes into Legacy Ridge. This project not only improved the living conditions but also revitalized the entire neighborhood, bringing together a mix of incomes and fostering a sense of community and belonging.
How has HPHA adapted to changes and challenges over the years to maintain its leadership in public housing?
Adaptability has been key to our success. We’ve leveraged public-private partnerships, embraced new technologies, and continuously refined our programs based on feedback from residents and the community. This proactive approach has allowed us to stay ahead of challenges and continue delivering effective solutions.
Future Vision
What is HPHA’s vision for the future of public housing in High Point?
Our vision for the future includes expanding our impact through innovative housing solutions and strategic partnerships. We aim to create more integrated communities that offer residents not only a place to live but also opportunities for personal and professional growth. We’re also looking at sustainable building practices to ensure our developments are environmentally responsible.
How does HPHA plan to involve residents in shaping the future of their communities?
Resident involvement is foundational to our approach. We engage residents in the planning process through forums, surveys, and participatory design workshops. Their insights and feedback are invaluable in ensuring that our projects truly meet their needs and aspirations. This collaborative spirit is what drives meaningful and lasting change.
In conclusion, the Housing Authority of the City of High Point remains dedicated to revolutionizing public housing through thoughtful, community-driven initiatives. Their commitment to fostering empowerment and independence is evident in their programs and successes. For more information about their ongoing efforts and future projects, you can visit their [official website](https://www.hpha.net/).
By: Chris Bates
