February 2025 Newsletter
February Reminders:
- Join us on February 13th at 4:00 PM for a Valentine's Day Party at the Community Center.
- The Office and Community Center will be closed on Monday February 17th for President's Day.
- Office hours are Monday - Thursday 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
- For AFTER-HOURS EMERGENCIES call 479.474.6901 and follow the prompts.
- Like us on Facebook and keep updated on current VBHA events!
Letter From the Director
Dear Residents,
As we begin the new year, I want to take a moment to share some important updates with you.
2025 Inspections
This year is an inspection year for VBHA. We understand that this process can be frustrating, and we truly appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work through it. Inspections are an essential part of maintaining safe and comfortable homes for our residents, and we do our best to make the process as smooth as possible.
Resident Satisfaction Surveys
We value your feedback! Resident satisfaction surveys will be distributed soon. Please take a few moments to complete and return them to the office. Your input helps us improve our services and better meet the needs of our VBHA families.
Spring Landscapes
With spring just around the corner, we know many of you may be thinking about planting and other landscaping projects. If you have any questions or need guidance, please reach out to Todd, who will be happy to assist you.
Thank you for being part of your community. If you have any concerns or need assistance, please don't hesitate to contact our office.
Sincerely,
Dayna Cochran
Executive Director
Love Your Lease: Community Service
Lease Agreement - Section I Tenant Obligations- Tenant shall be obligated:
47. "To comply with the Community Service and Self-Sufficiency Requirement as described in the PHA's Community Service and Self-Sufficiency Policy. Tenant and other family members eighteen (18) years of age or older agree that any non-exempt adult family member must contribute either eight (8) hours of community service per month or participate in an economic self-sufficiency program for eight (8) hours per month, or perform a combination of eight (8) hours of community service and participation in an economic self-sufficiency program per month. The required community service contribution or self-sufficiency participation, or combination of both activities, may be completed at eight (8) hours each month or aggregated throughout the year as long as 96 hours is completed by each annual reexamination. Non-compliance with this requirement will result in this Lease not being renewed, subject to the Tenant/family member's right to request a hearing under the PHA's Grievance Procedures."
All adults in the household (18 or older) who are not exempt must either:
- Do 8 hours of community service each month, or
- Participate in an economic self-sufficiency program for 8 hours each month, or
- Combine both activities to total 8 hours each month.
Hours can be done monthly or spread across the year, as long as 96 hours are completed annually by the time of the annual review.
If this requirement isn't met, the lease might not be renewed. Tenants can request a hearing if they disagree.
Black History Month
Since 1976, each U.S. president has officially designated February as Black History Month. President Gerald R. Ford urged Americans to "seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history."
Black History Month is an opportunity to focus on education, advocacy, and remembrance while celebrating the contributions and accomplishments of Black Americans throughout history and today! We recognize that the study and celebration of Black History should continue far beyond the month of February.
In President Biden's 2023 Black History Month proclamation, he reminded us all that "This country was established upon the profound but simple idea that all people are created equal and should be treated equally throughout their lives. It is an idea America has never fully lived up to, but it is an idea we have never fully walked away from either."
Within the affordable housing industry, we strive to build and foster communities that embody these ideals. Communities where all people can find their footing and thrive.
We understand that this is not an undertaking that can be embarked on alone; it takes partnerships, ingenuity, and innovation to reach our goal. As an agency, we partner with organizations aligned with our mission that empower our residents to conquer their goals and reach for new milestones.
We are proud to amplify and celebrate the stories and achievements of Black Americans not only during Black History Month but every day.
Family Fun Ideas for the Cold Days of February
Winter can be a drag and the cold days of February can seem like they'll never end. But have no fear, we're here to save your sanity with some fun family activities that will brighten your spirits! From snow-filled adventures to cozy nights, there are plenty of options to get the whole family together and make some memories. So let's bundle up and get ready for some February fun!
1. Arts and Crafts
Why not spend some time doing arts and crafts? Whether it's making homemade cards, paper crafts, or painting a masterpiece, it's a great way to express your creativity and have fun! Plus, you can put your creations up all around the house to remind you of the good times.
2. Board Games
Board games are an oldie but a goodie. Pull out your favorites like Scrabble, Monopoly, Risk, or Uno and get ready for some friendly competition! It's also a great way to bond with the family and teach some valuable lessons about strategy and problem-solving.
3. Movie Night
Movie night is always a hit with the family! Pop some popcorn, pick out your favorite movie, snuggle up on the couch, and enjoy some quality time together. You can even make it into an event with themed snacks or decorations.