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Influencer marketing has become a powerful tool for businesses to reach and engage their target audience. But can influencers also be effective in helping charities and nonprofits raise donations? Read on to learn about the potential of influencer marketing in the nonprofit sector, considering the benefits and strategies outlined in reputable sources.

Amplifying Reach and Awareness

One of the key benefits of using influencers for nonprofit fundraising is their ability to amplify reach and generate awareness. Influencers have a dedicated following of engaged individuals who trust their opinions and recommendations. By partnering with influencers, nonprofits can tap into their established audience base, allowing their message and cause to reach a wider audience. This increased visibility can make more people aware of the organization’s mission, campaigns, and donation opportunities.

Building Authentic Connections

Influencers have built their following based on their authentic voice, which fosters trust and connection with their audience. When influencers authentically endorse and promote a nonprofit’s cause, it can create a genuine connection with their followers. This connection, coupled with the influencer’s personal experiences and stories, can inspire their followers to take action and make donations. Authenticity is vital in influencer marketing, as it helps build trust and credibility around the nonprofit’s mission.

Targeted Marketing and Audience Segmentation

Influencer marketing allows nonprofits to target specific demographics and segments within their target audience. Influencers often have a niche or specific focus, which means their followers share similar interests and values. Nonprofits can strategically partner with influencers whose audience aligns with their cause to ensure their message reaches the right people. This targeted approach can increase the chances of attracting individuals who are more likely to support and donate to the organization.

Engaging Storytelling

Influencers are skilled storytellers who can effectively convey the mission and impact of a nonprofit organization. Through captivating content, such as blog posts, videos, or social media posts, influencers can share the stories of individuals who have benefited from the nonprofit’s work or highlight the organization’s achievements. This storytelling approach helps create an emotional connection and empathy among the audience, motivating them to contribute and make a difference.

Leveraging Social Proof

Influencers possess social influence, and their endorsements can serve as powerful social proof for a nonprofit’s cause. When followers see an influencer they trust supporting a charity or nonprofit, it adds credibility and legitimacy to the organization. This social proof can sway individuals who may be on the fence about making a donation, as they are more likely to trust recommendations from influencers they follow.

Influencer marketing can be a valuable tool for nonprofits and charities looking to increase their donations and create a positive impact. However, It is crucial to choose influencers whose values align with the organization’s mission and ensure transparency and authenticity in all collaborations. With a well-executed influencer marketing strategy, nonprofits can tap into new donor pools, inspire action, and make a lasting difference in their communities.

What to Know About Hosting a Fundraiser in Another State

By Muhammad Babangida

On May 18, 2023

In Community Engagement, Muhammad Babangida, Philanthropy

Hosting a fundraiser in another state can be a rewarding opportunity to expand your reach and attract support for your cause. However, it’s essential to understand the legal and logistical considerations involved to ensure compliance and maximize the success of your event. Consider these key factors when hosting a fundraiser in another state, drawing from expert advice and reliable sources.

Understand State Fundraising Laws

Before hosting a fundraiser in another state, familiarize yourself with the fundraising laws and regulations specific to that state. Each state has its own requirements for charitable solicitations, registration, reporting, and fundraising disclosures. Some states may require you to register as a charitable organization or obtain a permit before conducting fundraising activities. Visit the state’s attorney general or secretary of state website to access relevant information and resources.

Research Tax Implications

When hosting a fundraiser in another state, be aware of the tax implications for your organization and donors. Some states have different rules regarding sales tax, use tax, and income tax exemptions for charitable organizations. Understand the tax obligations related to the event, such as collecting and remitting sales tax on auction items or ticket sales. Consult with a tax professional or legal advisor to ensure compliance with state tax laws.

Seek Professional Guidance

Navigating the legal and administrative requirements of hosting a fundraiser in another state can be complex. Consider seeking professional guidance from an attorney or fundraising consultant with expertise in multistate fundraising. They can help you understand each state’s legal obligations, registration processes, and reporting requirements. Their guidance can ensure compliance and save you time and effort in the long run.

Establish Partnerships

Building partnerships with local organizations or individuals in the state where you plan to host the fundraiser can be beneficial. Collaborating with local nonprofits, businesses, or community leaders can help you navigate the local landscape, gain credibility, and tap into their network of supporters. These partnerships can provide valuable insights, resources, and marketing opportunities to make your fundraiser more successful.

Plan Logistics in Advance

Hosting a fundraiser in another state requires careful planning and coordination. Consider logistics such as venue selection, permits, event insurance, transportation, and accommodations. Familiarize yourself with local event regulations, including noise ordinances and crowd size limits. Ensure you have a local point of contact who can assist with logistics and provide support throughout the planning and execution of the event.

Communicate with Donors and Supporters

When hosting a fundraiser in another state, communicate with your existing donors and supporters about the event. Inform them of the purpose, date, and location of the fundraiser and emphasize the impact their participation can make. Leverage your organization’s communication channels, such as email newsletters and social media, to reach a broader audience and generate excitement.

Hosting a fundraiser in another state can open up new opportunities to raise awareness and support for your cause. However, it’s crucial to understand the legal requirements, tax implications, and logistical considerations involved. Consult with legal and financial professionals to ensure you confidently navigate the complexities of multistate fundraising and achieve your fundraising goals.

What Are Some Reasons Nonprofits Might Not Accept Donations?

By Muhammad Babangida

On March 2, 2023

In Muhammad Babangida, Philanthropy

When a tech company from Silicon Valley wanted to give a $250,000 grant to an organization that helps reunite immigrant families separated at the US-Mexico border, the RAICES organization immediately rejected the donation. They did so because of the doner’s political ties to US Customs and Border Protection, criticized for its policies against immigrants.

Regardless of the political issues that affected the company’s decision, it is an excellent example for other charitable organizations. Nonprofits should consider how their donations affect their mission and goals before accepting them. Donations need to align with the organization’s values or goals to be beneficial.

When a donation goes against the organization’s core values, it should be considered a red flag.

Reputation is one of the most critical factors a charitable organization should consider when accepting donations. If a potential donor’s values go against the organization’s core principles, it could affect the trust that its supporters have in it.

Before accepting a certain type of donation or partnership, an organization should thoroughly consider the potential damage to its reputation caused by the donor’s values. Having clear and published guidelines on its core principles with help.

Good360, a product philanthropy firm, aims to find the right products at the right time to help people. Through our evaluation process, we aim to find the appropriate donations to send to the right people. They will refuse gifts that aren’t the right fit for disaster victims.

If a nonprofit receives an offer of a product or service that doesn’t meet your expectations, it might not fit your organization’s goals. In the worst cases, accommodating the request could cost you a lot of money and time.

Make sure your organization’s mission and goals are clear, as well as the issues you’re working on, before accepting donations. This information helps potential donors know if you’re the right fit for their giving programs.

The Donations Comes with Too Many Restrictions

Significant gifts can come with strings attached, and donors may ask for the funds for specific purposes or one location. While it’s important to keep donors happy, sometimes it’s necessary to say no thanks when these restrictions threaten the mission or values of the organization.

Saying No Opens Doors

When an organization says no to a gift because of a specific condition, it means saying yes to something better.

It can be difficult to decline a gift, but it’s also essential to consider the organization’s long-term goals and the community’s needs. Being selective about the types of donations you receive can help you achieve these goals.

What Is Donor Screening in Nonprofits?

By Muhammad Babangida

On March 1, 2023

In Muhammad Babangida, Philanthropy

Regarding philanthropy, it’s essential to consider the various factors that affect a donor’s impact on an organization’s mission and vision. Having the proper resources and practices in place minimizes risk and ensures that your gifts support your organization’s goals and mission.

As we develop and manage our prospect pipelines, it’s vital that we thoroughly consider the backgrounds of our potential donors. This is especially important when it comes to large gifts.

Before accepting a gift or soliciting a new donor, nonprofits must take the time to consider the various factors that affect an organization’s mission and vision. While predicting how a gift or donation affects an organization is impossible, the 24-hour news cycle can provide important information about a potential donor.

Financial and Legal Risks

There are many risks associated with accepting a donation to a nonprofit organization, and it’s usually not worth the risk to accept it if it could affect the organization’s financial stability or lead to an issue with the law. To minimize these risks, the development department, leadership team, and individual fundraisers should thoroughly investigate the potential donors’ backgrounds and follow established policies.

A strong donor acceptance policy is critical to protect the organization’s goals and mission. It should include rules about the types of accepted gifts and guidelines for naming and anonymity. Proper procedures can minimize risk and ensure donations support the organization’s goals and mission.

Reputation and Ethical Risks

Different standards and methods should be used by each organization to determine when a gift or donation can be considered harmful. Some nonprofits will only accept contributions from individuals who support the organization’s values or mission, regardless of their motives.

Nonprofit organizations should consider the reputation of their potential donors by checking into financial difficulties and criminal activity. A foundation or organization should consider the ethical nature of its funding source. Check if the potential donor support groups or candidates whose agenda is out of sync with your nonprofit. These are some of the questions that leaders and fundraisers should ask during the donor vetting process to help protect their organizations from potential ethical and reputational risks.

Be Proactive

Conducting prospect research before asking for donations can help identify potential donors who may pose ethical, legal, and financial risks. It can also flag prospects who have unclear or inaccessible wealth sources.

To check for adverse press reports, an organization should conduct a news search and review recently published articles.

Before conducting prospect research, an organization should thoroughly check the sources of the potential donors’ previous funding and their current involvement with various charitable activities.

Although donor vetting can be a multi-faceted process, organizations must clearly understand their goals and the resources they need to make informed decisions. A strategic plan and asking the right questions can help ensure a successful process.

Creating Passionate Volunteers

By Muhammad Babangida

On January 4, 2023

In Community Engagement, Muhammad Babangida, Philanthropy

Are you a part of a local nonprofit or charity organization? Do you supervise and recruit volunteers?

If so, you’re aware of the vital role of non-paid workers in a community or charitable organization.

You’ll also need to find volunteers who can help with various tasks, such as fundraising and IT.

You can use online and offline methods to recruit volunteers. Both ways can help organizations identify potential volunteers and determine how to utilize them to meet their needs.

A Good Match

Start by looking for volunteers who are passionate about their work and have the necessary skills and experience to meet the organization’s needs. For instance, childcare providers are ideal for one role, while construction workers are good at physical activity.

Online Recruitment

You can also post a call for volunteers on the organization’s website’s homepage. Make sure the form includes details such as the desired skills, experience, and physical demands.

You can also reach out to your supporters, donors, and partners by email. Ensure the link to the recruitment page is included in the message.

Use social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to connect with potential volunteers and spread the word about your cause.

You can also check for volunteer-matchmaking sites that operate in your area. For instance, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation connects its employees and partners with local nonprofit organizations in various countries.

Without Technology

You can also speak out at community events to promote your organization. For instance, you can contact schools, clubs, and businesses to inform them about your cause. You can also distribute flyers and register volunteers at the event.

You can also post fliers around the community to inform potential volunteers about your organization. Consider the demographics of the individuals who are interested in volunteering and the appropriate locations.

You can reach out to local media outlets such as radio, television, and newspapers to place an ad for your organization.

Try holding a fundraising party, which can be a great way to get the community’s attention.

Network

Although you can recruit people online or offline, remember that your network can also help you replace retiring volunteers. If you’re still new to the organization, you can use your friends and family as a resource to find new volunteers.

Most importantly, If you’re passionate about the cause, you will instill the same vitality in those around you.

Why Nonprofits Need Diversity

By Muhammad Babangida

On January 4, 2023

In Community Engagement, Muhammad Babangida, Philanthropy

One of nonprofit organizations’ most significant issues is the need for more diversity on their boards. This is because it affects the perceptions of their organization’s fairness and equality image among the communities they serve. Absent diversity on the boards can create a disconnect and mistrust between the communities they serve.

The need for more diversity in leadership positions is a persistent issue that needs to be discussed and improved.

The sixth edition of Deloitte’s Missing Pieces Report, which analyzes the number of minorities and women on the boards of Fortune 500 companies, was released.

Despite the progress made in increasing the number of women and minorities on corporate boards, achieving full equality in the representation of these groups in the US remains very challenging. This is why organizations must prioritize the creation of more diverse boards.

Challenges

The concept of the cloning effect refers to the practice of recruiting new board members by inviting them from their immediate circle of influence. This can create a homogenous board that doesn’t reflect the communities they serve.

People may be unable to attend events and meetings because of travel and time constraints. Over-commitment can also prevent them from engaging in board meetings.

The need for clarity regarding the organization’s values and diversity is a common issue that boards encounter.

A high turnover rate can also be a problem for boards. Finding skilled individuals who are interested in serving can be challenging.

The confusion regarding the term diversity also affects the operations of nonprofit boards. While the term can refer to people and groups, it doesn’t necessarily mean the difference between race, religion, or color. It can encompass various factors such as age, education, sexual orientation, marital status, and geographical location.

The characteristics that make people unique are known as diversity. Nonprofit organizations are known for their efforts in serving and uplifting diverse communities. Therefore, boards should look for leaders representing the communities they serve.

The increasing number of minorities in the US is expected to continue to affect the country’s demographics. According to the Census Bureau, by 2044, minorities will become the majority of the country’s population. The rise of Gen Z also brings about the formation of more diverse workplaces.

Impact

If boards do not address the issue of diversity, a disconnect between the communities the organizations are serving may occur, resulting in a lack of funding, limited networks, and difficulty in coming up with new ideas. The lack of diversity may also lead to a group-think mentality and conformity biases, which can prevent the organizations from making the correct decisions.

Having diverse board members can help strengthen an organization’s credibility and connection with its constituents. It can also help raise funds and distribute grants more effectively.

Effective Grant Writing Tips

By Muhammad Babangida

On January 4, 2023

In Community Engagement, Muhammad Babangida, Philanthropy

Getting grant writing help can be very challenging, but it can also mean a lot of money for the organizations that do it. According to a report by Candid, foundations gave over $75 billion in grants in 2019. A lot of money is ready to be given to the various organizations that present their cases.

There are various steps that you can take to increase the likelihood that you will receive a grant.

One of the most critical steps you can take to increase the likelihood that you will receive a grant is to explain the project’s need. This will allow the grant committee to see how the project will benefit the community.

Why are You Different

Your work should be different from other organizations to make you stand out. Usually, a grant is rejected for a non-profit organization that doesn’t have a relationship with a foundation. However, setting yourself apart can increase your chances of being approved.

Explain the Project

Most grants go to a specific cause, different from general support. Focusing on one project can increase your chances of receiving funds. A clear explanation of how the project will run will also show the grant committee that you’ve thought about the project’s goals.

Keep it Simple

Although there are various types of jargon in the non-profit industry, it’s important to avoid using all of it to appeal to the corporate and foundation communities.

Tell a Story

A given committee may spend hours reading grant proposals. Eventually, they’ll all sound the same unless they find something that grabs their heart. Your organization’s story is the most important thing you can offer to get the reader to fall in love with it. By telling a story, you can convince the grant committee that your project is worthy of support.

Focus on Solutions

One of the most common reasons people send out negative proposals is the lack of solutions. However, try to make your proposal more positive instead of focusing on the negative. In addition to being able to tell a story, having a clear understanding of the project’s objectives can help grant committees make an informed decision.

Budget

Ensure that your budget is accurate and supports the objectives of the project. If your proposal hints at how you might mismanage your money, you’ll be removed from the running.

Get a Second Opinion

Before you submit your proposal, make sure you reach out to someone who doesn’t know much about your organization. This individual should be able to give you an unbiased opinion on the project and its goals. An outsider’s perspective can also help you build a stronger relationship with the grant committee.

Watch the Details

Foundation guidelines can be precise. If they require certain features, such as page margins, typeface, and length, make sure that you follow these guidelines. Even though these may not seem important, grantmakers want applications that meet their standards.

Wait to Be Asked for More

Even if you think that sending more than the grant maker’s request is necessary will help you win, make sure to follow the guidelines. Grantmakers will likely see your application as an annoyance if they see too much extraneous material. Wait to be asked for supporting documentation.

Tools That Make Fundraising Collaboration Easier

By Muhammad Babangida

On December 1, 2022

In Community Engagement, Muhammad Babangida, Philanthropy

Fundraising tools, like HootSuite, GreaterGiving, Springly, and GoFundMe, are designed to help organize and streamline the various steps involved in running a successful fundraising campaign. They can also minimize the amount of work your staff members must do to make the event successful.

Although there are many different fundraising tools, it’s important to note that some are comprehensive and can help you run a successful campaign. Others, however, are simpler and only provide a few features that allow you to manage a small amount of activity.

One of the most critical steps you can take is to organize an open forum for your organization’s staff members to discuss the various aspects of running a successful campaign.

One of your group members will be able to look into the various companies that offer these services and find out which will work best for your organization. Brands should also list their products’ top features and prices so that you can compare their offerings against your current needs and budget.

Canva

Canva has thousands of templates you can use to create engaging images, which can help capture the attention of your potential supporters. Canva also has tutorials and other resources to help you improve your skills in social media graphics. If you are running a social media campaign or planning to expand your reach, then boosting your visuals is essential.

HootSuite

It’s vital to consider when choosing fundraising software the ability to schedule your posts. With HootSuite, you can quickly implement various features, such as content scheduling. This tool can help you keep up with the latest trends in online fundraising.

MailChimp

Some organizations do not launch annual email fundraising campaigns. You can use an affordable service like MailChimp, which allows you to automate email delivery. It also offers professional templates to help build effective communications.

Crowdfunding Platforms

GoFundMe

This tool has a simple dashboard that allows you to manage various aspects of your organization’s operations, such as sending thank-you emails and withdrawing funds. Unlike other platforms, this service does not have fees.

Since it was first established in 2010, the crowdfunding platform known as Gofundme has become one of the most popular platforms in the world. It allows individuals and organizations to raise money for various causes. You can start a campaign by adding a certain amount of money to your goal, create a story using photos, text, and video, and share it on social media.

Peer-to-Peer Fundraising Platforms

Bonfire

With the help of crowdfunding and peer-to-peer capabilities, you can reach out to your target audience and raise money for your cause through the platform known as Bonfire. It also allows nonprofit organizations to sell their merchandise. Through its simple point-and-click feature, you can create and sell various products such as t-shirts, water bottles, and sweatshirts.

QGiv

QGiv is a software that supports various types of online fundraising, including peer-to-peer and online auctions. You can use it to manage multiple aspects of an organization’s operations, such as sending and receiving donations.

Springly

With Springly, you can manage all the tools you need to run an organization, including a complete CRM, fundraising capabilities, and communication tools. It also comes with an event management system. Since all of these components are in one software, it eliminates much of the heavy lifting involved in running an organization.

Greater Giving

This software supports both live and virtual events and provides various services for both types of fundraisers. Through its event services, you can connect with experts who can help you maximize the performance of your events.

GiveSmart

GiveSmart is a sizeable online fundraising software that connects various aspects of an organization’s operations, such as its CRM and payment processing services. It can also handle virtual and live events. Its customer service team can answer questions and advise at any time.

Best Payment Processors for Nonprofits

A payment processor is a must for any organization planning on holding a web-based fundraiser. It will ensure that they can accept donations online.

Stripe

For registered nonprofit organizations, which can raise at least 80% of their income through donations, a discount is available from Stripe. This payment processing company also offers a variety of developer tools and advanced reporting capabilities.

Square

Although Square doesn’t offer a discount to nonprofit organizations, it has a variety of free features. One of these is its customer management software, which is helpful for organizations that maintain a contact list and collect donations.

PayPal

Nonprofits can utilize PayPal’s various resources, including a dedicated Donate button, recurring donation capabilities, and payment options. It also allows you to be included in its Giving Fund, which enables donors to find your organization. PayPal’s integrations with other software can be effortless.

One of the most critical factors that any organization should consider when choosing online fundraising software is the ability to manage its donor information. Before you sign up for a platform, thoroughly understand its features and how it can help you collect donations.

In addition to helping organizations maximize their donations, this software helps them improve efficiency by integrating and automating various aspects of their operations. This can allow them to work more efficiently and effectively with their team members.

Recent Changes in Philanthropy Trends

By Muhammad Babangida

On November 2, 2022

In Community Engagement, Muhammad Babangida, Philanthropy

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Americans gave more to charity than ever before. This was the third year in a row that they had raised more than they had in previous years.

Unfortunately, inflation is affecting Americans’ finances and their generosity. In addition, donations to charitable organizations are expected to become scarce due to the recession.

If the charitable tendencies of Americans are affected by the current economic situation, it could end a brief but essential surge. In 2021, the country’s donations to philanthropic organizations reached a record $485 billion.

A survey conducted by the Harris Poll revealed that about 70% of Americans donated their time and money to various charitable organizations in the previous year. Some key trends that can be expected to affect the operations of these organizations include a possible increase in volunteering.

Generational Differences

The way a charity receives support may depend on the supporters’ age. For instance, younger Americans are more likely to donate their time and money to charitable organizations. On the other hand, older generations are more likely to cut checks.

The breakdown of the data shows that younger Americans are more likely to give their time and money to charitable organizations. For instance, almost half of those aged 44 and below volunteered in the previous year, as opposed to 31% of their elders. They also attend various events supporting the cause.

The survey findings suggest that the younger generations are more likely to carry out activism through their older years. In addition, they are also more likely to donate their time and money to in-kind donations. This suggests that their charitable tendencies may reflect more than just their means.

If the charitable dollars are not enough to support the operations of charitable organizations, they should start reaching out to the younger generations. This can be done by recruiting grant writers and business development professionals. In addition, they can also encourage individuals to become pro-bono fundraising consultants.

Demographic Differences

When it comes to volunteering, men are more likely than women to support organizations that deal with disaster relief, community development, and the military. Conversely, women are more likely to donate their time and money to religious and animal welfare groups.

Different reasons explain why people give. For instance, men are more likely to support a cause by making a financial contribution in the past year. On the other hand, women are more likely to support a specific organization due to their desire to give back.

The support given by older Americans to human services-focused organizations was much greater than that provided by the younger ones. For instance, over three-quarters of those over 45 gave to these organizations, as opposed to only 16% of those under 45.

Younger Americans were more likely to support educational organizations than their elders, who were more likely to donate due to their recent school experiences. Also, parents with children under 18 were more likely to contribute to these groups.

The uncertainty caused by the current economic situation can stimulate the creativity of charitable organizations. As a result, they have to shift their focus from their traditional message to appeal to more support.

Why Collaboration Is Key in Philanthropy

By Muhammad Babangida

On November 2, 2022

In Community Engagement, Muhammad Babangida, Philanthropy

According to foundation leaders, collaboration is essential to achieving their goals, and various resources are available to help them develop and implement effective strategies. In research, 59 percent of chief executive officers identified collaboration as a vital strategy for increasing the impact of their organizations over the next couple of decades.

Due to the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, many foundations have combined their efforts to address the issue. For instance, Grantmakers in Health, a peer-reviewed journal for health philanthropy, has created an e-community for sharing information and strategies related to the disease.

According to a new report, collaboration is critical to achieving their goals and is also very important to the success of their organizations when it comes to influencing public policies. The report states that over 80 percent of chief executive officers of foundations actively participate in collaborative efforts when it comes to influencing public policies.

Funders

According to the Policy Influence report, foundations are most likely to collaborate with other philanthropic and nonprofit organizations. They also frequently participate in formal initiatives and programs designed to improve their organizations’ effectiveness. These include joint efforts and initiatives led by regional and issue-based foundations.

Some foundations also work informally by signing letters to promote policies or coordinating grantmaking efforts. They can also participate in programs and initiatives designed to improve their organizations’ effectiveness.

Government

According to many foundation leaders, collaboration with the government is vital to achieving their goals. It allows them to communicate their message and raise awareness about the issue effectively.

One example of a successful collaboration between the government and the private sector is the development of a criminal justice model that was designed to reduce the homicide rate in a city. The model was developed through a collaboration between the Mayor’s Office, the Police Department, and the District Attorney’s Office.

Most foundation leaders also said that their organization’s long-term commitment to working with government officials is significant. A survey showed that 79 percent of the organizations that operate outside of grantmaking regularly develop and maintain relationships with local elected officials.

Solid relationships with local officials allow foundations to assess their goals and participate in meaningful discussions about the government’s policies.

One example of this is how a foundation connects with state legislators by reviewing their constituents’ needs and wants and finding relevant research that the organization’s partners or grant recipients have created. Another CEO noted that their organization works with state agencies to develop effective workforce development strategies.

Multi-Sector

According to the leaders of several major foundations, multi-sector partnerships are critical to achieving their goals. One example is how their organization works with state agencies and other organizations to develop effective community development strategies.

One example of a successful collaboration between the government and the private sector is the development of a state-wide partnership between various groups to increase the availability of affordable housing.