As we begin a new year and a new chapter at ROC USA, I am honored to step into the role of CEO. Following in Paul Bradley’s footsteps is no small task, and I’m filled with gratitude for the foundation he built over the past 16 years. His vision and passion became ROC USA’s: an unwavering commitment to the mission of expanding resident ownership of manufactured home communities that has shaped ROC USA into the incredible organization it is today.
It wasn’t long ago that my perspective on ROC USA was that of an outsider. I have long admired this organization for its steadfast commitment to its values. ROC USA doesn’t just talk about resident leadership, it is baked into every aspect of the work from empowering communities to purchase their mobile home parks to operating as expert advisors for the organization through the ROC Association. Authentic resident empowerment like this is exceptional, but sadly, quite rare. It’s precisely why ROC USA has stood out as a model for others in the affordable housing sector and why I was so drawn to the opportunity to play a role.
The impact of ROC USA’s work is undeniable. In the affordable homeownership sector, the acquisition and preservation of 50 to 300 homesites at a time is very high impact. And it’s what ROC USA and our Network support routinely. The scale and consistency of ROC USA’s impact over the years have been extraordinary, and as an outsider looking in, I often pointed to ROC USA as a shining example of social enterprise done right.
The housing crisis in America has reached a tipping point, opening eyes and ears to the importance of preserving and investing in affordable housing solutions like ROCs.
Now, as I take the helm, I’m looking forward – to the opportunities, challenges, and responsibilities ahead. Less than a month ago, ROC USA was awarded $38 million in PRICE program funding. We were the largest recipient from a vast field of strong applicants with worthy projects to fund. This award is a testament to the growing recognition of ROCs as a critical piece of America’s affordable housing solution. It’s validation that this housing stock, and the homeowners and families who call it home, deserve investment and preservation.
We know the impact this funding will have – transforming communities, preserving affordability, and changing lives. And we also know this is just the beginning. To fully harness opportunities like PRICE and others, we will continue building our capacity to tap into federal, state, and local public funding. This shift has been underway for some time, and now we are doubling down to ensure transformational change.
As we grow and evolve, we are also deepening our commitment to drive meaningful impact in diverse multicultural communities and predominantly Latine and/or Spanish-speaking communities. The strength of ROC USA lies in its ability to enable communities to harness their collective power. That means we must thoughtfully adapt and intentionally align our practices so we add value for the diverse cultures, races and ethnicities represented in prospective ROCs and existing ROCs. Getting this right will take time and deep listening and learning to develop an effective strategy so that all ROCs can thrive in ways that reflect their unique strengths and needs.
The housing crisis in America has reached a tipping point, opening eyes and ears to the importance of preserving and investing in affordable housing solutions like ROCs. Our mission has never been more relevant. ROC USA is poised to lead the way, building on its entrepreneurial and innovative roots while stepping boldly into its role as a major industry actor.
As I look to the future, I see incredible potential – not just for ROC USA, but for the communities, affiliates and residents who are the heart of this movement. Together, we’ll continue to demonstrate that resident ownership works, that manufactured home communities are worth preserving, and that meaningful change is possible when we align our values with action.
I’m thrilled to embark on this journey with all of you. Let’s make 2025 a year of transformation, impact, and progress – together.
