A small group gathers monthly in English via Zoom (and quarterly in Spanish) for a Next Gen Wealth Academy class on homeownership that could change their lives.

It is a HUD-approved housing counseling program that aims to educate the community on aspects of home ownership, including the preparation and purchasing process, as well as credit, debt, and budgeting.

The class starts with an introduction, during which HUD Housing Counselor Carmen Juarez explains the program and its offerings. Then, professional volunteers – lenders, realtors, insurance agents, inspectors, and escrow title specialists – each present their role in the home-buying process.

Typically, around 16 to 20 eager attendees join the class.

“My biggest hope is that, by the end of the class, clients feel empowered, informed, and ready to take the next steps toward homeownership confidently,” said Juarez.

It’s an exciting step toward creating a brighter, more secure future for each participant.