It is truly my honor to work with VHCDC. Everyone I have worked with and interacted with, from the President to members of the staff, has been genuine, kind, professional, caring and warm. While this may seem unimportant, there are few things more important when operating an organization that is community centered and community driven. If people don't feel the warmth and like you really care, you can offer the best services in the world but it won't matter. I personally know and have seen the commitment of VHCDC to expanding the opportunities for home ownership to everyone interested in owning a home. VHCDC goes above and beyond to help every client they can and every client that wants it. VHCDC is very active in educating the community and their network of partners with seminars, events, classes and networking opportunities. When you start with education and awareness, the mind becomes receptive to the possibilities. In 2023, there are still too many people who believe home ownership is an unattainable dream instead of a realistic goal. VHCDC works to dispel that belief with education and awareness sprinkled with a heavy helping of "I believe in you". What is probably most impressive to me is the consistent evolution of their programs, policies and procedures. VHCDC is always fine tuning how they do things and thinking outside of the box as to how they can achieve greater results in different ways to further their mission and objectives and to reach more people to help. VHCDC and its partners brainstorm almost like an informal think tank creating new roads leading to the mission and goals. In a society that is constantly changing, a community organization such as VHCDC must continue to change and evolve to stay relevant and meet the needs of the community. VHCDC understands that. To me, that is one of its most outstanding qualities. I hope to have the opportunity to partner with this organization for many years to come.
I enrolled in VHCDC’s Home Ownership Assistance Program thinking I’d receive clear guidance and support, but my experience has been nothing short of frustrating and disheartening. Despite completing all required coursework and securing a contract on my first home, I was blindsided by a last-minute denial of down payment assistance—simply because I chose to use my mother as my realtor, even after being told to “note the file” by a VHCDC representative. Communication has been abysmal: I’ve waited days for callbacks, received conflicting instructions, and been passed back and forth between staff members. Now, at the eleventh hour, I’m told there’s no appeal and pointed to vague external resources—leaving me at risk of homelessness when my lease ends on July 31. I expected professionalism and partnership; instead, I got confusion, broken promises, and zero accountability.
Great company! They are so professional and knowledgeable on the home buying process. I am soo excited to start and finish this journey with VHCDC.
I just registered 04/09/2025, and attended my 1st home-buyer's class last night. I have been slightly anxious before last night, not knowing how to access papers, forms, etc. However, I did get a better explanation & understanding in class last night! I would've preferred having some directions BEFORE the class, as I spent 5 days anxious that wasn't necessary, had there been a sheet e-mailed to me with a better explanation as soon as I joined, but I am happy and satisfied now.
Virginia Housing and Community Development Corporation is a non-profit organization that serves the needs of citizens truly wanting to achieve the dream of homeownership. If you are willing to put in the work to get your Dream home, VHCDC is willing to work twice as hard to get you there. The resources that are available to you can't be found with other organizations. They educate you about every aspect of becoming a homeowner, provide you with a realtor, lender, inspectors, legal counsel, etc. until you get your keys to your new home. President, James Taylor, is at the forefront of an amazing organization, working tirelessly for the low to moderate income population to achieve what they thought was unachievable. Keep up the good work!!!
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VHCDC strives to address the needs of the rental population by providing Homebuyer courses via a Homebuyer College course that provides vital information needed when purchasing a home. Do yourself a favor and sign up for the next class. www.vhcdc.org. It's Free!
My name is Toni Cassada. I was a victim to real estate fraud and was displaced from my home over a year ago. I since have come to stay at Sheldon's in keysville. With the help of tri county I am able to stay a few more weeks. I have come to know several other ladies here homeless as well. We have all been trying to find places to go with not much luck. Everyday is a struggle for us all and for me, I can't shake the depression because we're also removed from my care. I am reaching out for any and all help you could provide here. Sincerely TONI CASSADA my number 434-568-8666 and my email address is cassadatoni@gmail.com.
As a REALTOR with VHCDC, I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to assist individuals in finding their dream homes. This program stands out for its dedication to helping first-time homebuyers access affordable housing and providing crucial support to align them with resources to improve their creditworthiness and budgeting skills. The assistance doesn't stop there; VHCDC also offers invaluable down payment assistance post-closure. Overall, this program is truly the best, and I'm thankful for the chance to witness its positive impact on countless individuals' lives.
The communication is not so good.
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The First Time Home Buyers College is an excellent program with a great moderator. Just graduated! I wish I knew of this years ago. After looking at the website I noticed there is an abundance of information in which I will utilize. Perhaps this program could be offered to high school seniors if not already.
This nonprofit is providing a means for people such as myself, that would not have an opportunity or experience to believe that becoming a homeowner would be possible at all for someone like me-with income below the poverty level Because of the encouragement, support and education provided I genuinely believe that this is an opportunity to become something that I have only dreamed about and that's to become a Homeowner Area of improvement is narrow because it's all according to me applying this training to my goals and not expecting someone else to believe in me yet believe in myself and put into practice what I've learned Thank you guys for your heart to help people like myself achieve better for ourselves
I had the pleasure of working with VHCDC and a client from their first time homebuyer program. The client was well prepared and ready to purchase. There were a couple of bumps along the way but determination.and a positive attitude got her the keys. Thank you to VHCDC for the hope you bring to your clients by preparing them in advance for the process
The program is comprehensive and you essentially get a team of people to assist in the process and personalized attention when there is a question or concern.
The the information I learned from the homebuyers class was extremely valuable. I had no idea of the options that was available to minorities as homebuyer. I was under the impression that everything had to be perfect and in order to get a home and this class really help me to understand the improvements that needed to be made within my finances, budget and my resources. The class was very enlightening and I really enjoyed it! I have told my daughters about a lot of the strategies and concepts learned so that they will have knowledge of home ownership sooner than I did!
The team at the VHCDC was a tremendous resource for me during the home buying process.They provided education on what to expect during the home buying process and supported me at every step. The program is a wonderful community resource and I will continue to recommend them to all the prospective home owners I meet.
Johnell Dixon
I am so grateful to Mr. James R. Taylor, President
of the Virginia Housing and Community Development Corporation and to his awesome team for guiding me in the process of being a first time home buyer! After two years of saving money, fixing my credit, taking his home buying certification, being connected to affiliates like home inspector, Kali Pettigrew, and my wonderful real-estate agent, Mrs. Cynthia Daniels, my dream of owning my beach bungalow came true!
Virginia Housing and Community Development Corporation helped me fufill a lifelong goal of homeownership. The first time homebuyer's classes were amazing. They were information packed but also provided the opportunities for participation and interaction with others on the same journey as me. The classes reduced my apprehension about the homebuying process. I was paired with a great local real estate agent and received constant support throughout the process. Anytime I was discouraged or needed an answer to a question the staff at Virginia Housing and Community Development Corporation were there for me.
Virginia Housing and Community Development Corporation (VHCDC) is to educate and empower individuals, families and minority business owners to build wealth, access capital and credit, and achieve home ownership. VHCDC achieves this mission through a steady stream of wealth building initiatives, home ownership education and assistance, small business financing, and acquiring and rehabilitating distressed housing in targeted communities.
I took the first time homebuyers course. The course was very informative and provided information about the home buying process that I was unaware of. Great information and a lot of resources to assist you with the home buying process.
VHCDC is an excellent resource for those looking to purchase a home, for agents and home inspectors like myself. Potential home buyers are assigned a home inspector and we educate them on the inspection process and complete the inspection. I have been working with the VHCDC for about two years and have seen exponential growth in my business since then.
The VHCDC assisted me with the purchase of my first home! By enrolling in the First Time Homebuyers course they provide, I learned invaluable information towards purchasing my home. Not only were the classes informative but they provided a Real Estate Agent, a listing of different mortgage lenders, and a Real Estate Attorney for my home buying process. Many of the lessons learned through the courses are money management and home maintenance that I am still able to refer back to after moving into my home! The VHCDC has been great resource in helping me through this very hard but worthy, home buying process!
VHCDC has been an amazing resource for homebuyer referrals. VHCDC delivers clients ready to purchase homes. The employees are very nice and accommodating to their clients. VHCDC staff are very reliable. If I had an issue, VHCDC has always been there willing and ready to help resolve it. What else can you ask for?
This nonprofit is providing valuable information to help me in becoming ready to buy my first home. I didn't know the process and I feel a little at ease. I have no suggestions of improvement at this time.
This nonprofit is beyond expectations I wish it was more like this knowledgeable patient and so helpful wish I knew about them sooner.
VCHDC gives great knowledge and resources for first time homebuyers. They give great information and gives direct answers to questions to everyone asks. I would like to have more mini sessions on becoming a homeowner while going through the process.
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The gentleman leading the class was so knowledgeable and answered all questions completely. He gave so much information to truly help set us up for success. You have an outstanding volunteer leading this program.
Individualized assistance and everyone I have come into contact with is client focused! Once I get myself together and in my own place I will definitely give back to this organization. I am certain I will be a homeowner in 2023!
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I recently took the class and felt that the information on the module was thorough and gave a lot of clarity of the process of buying home. I think having the 4 day modules worked great for my schedule and time of evening.
Everything was amazing!!! I don't have any suggestions for improvement because all of my expectations where met three times over! Thanks you so much!! James Taylor is a true gem!!!
Educating the members of the community that wants to achieve better for themselves. Continue to keep doing what you are doing.
I had taken this course prior in my city but I couldn't fully grasp what I was being taught until my recent class(#68) it was so informative, our teacher was very knowledgeable about the home buying process and everything else that was involved ( budgeting) . He told us about other resources to help start our journey such credit counseling. I was so excited that I told numerous family members and neighbors. My family members did sign up for the up coming class. This is a AWESOME CLASS
I have found everyone o be well informed and willing to offer any possible assistance. I\u2019m looking forward to continue working with this organization and I hope for its continued growth and success as they support our communities.
The training was very thorough. Some of things I would have never known about. I've already recommended the training to people I know
This nonprofit is doing well in educating and equipping people with the necessary information and knowledge we need before purchasing a home. So we won't be ripped off or fooled. I can now knowledgeably begin my search in owning a home. Mr. Taylor was great! He taught very well. What can be done better is have better software/internet service of possible. Sound was in/out at times, and screen kept freezing up. Overall I learned so much. Thank You.
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This is the best class I have ever attended. Mr. Taylor was very professional and OMG!!! He had all the answers. I have enjoyed the class and I know I'll be successful at homeownership due to this program!
The VHCDC has enlightened me on every tools needed to make me a productive homeowner. It's made me stronger in areas that I was weak. Whoever said, knowledge is powerful is a very profound statement and true all day everyday when applied to your life. I would like to thank VHCDC for the home ownership class. I will use the knowledge to assist others in letting them know the importance of receiving information before decision-making in becoming an homeowner . Mr. Taylor, truly empowered and equipped us with the information to know the do's and don't when ready to buy a home. God bless this organization and the lives it touches. Julia Claude
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First, I have to say offering this information free of charge is A+. Mr. Taylor's informative knowledge keeps me engaged with wanting more details to improve my life as a home buyer. It definitely has enlightened me to the world of buying a home and knowing my credit worthiness. Truly, enjoyed the class thus far.
Thoroughly explained Home buying process. Maintains frequent and concise communication. People like their jobs and it shows.
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I received consistent follow up in regards to the lease to own program. Staff have followed up quickly when I've left messages or emails. The first time home buyer's class is extremely detailed. It would be helpful to send details/instructions on using the platform (Ring Central) prior to enrollment/day of class so that we can abide by all of the rules of the class.
Mr. James Taylor is a very thorough, knowledgeable and professional teacher. I enjoyed every minute of his class.
This non-profit organization educates people on how to budget, become homeowners and rise above poverty. This program actually helps!
The nonprofit is helping to purchase a home, Mr. James Taylor is a great teacher he explains the house buying process so that we would understand, Mr. Taylor is very helpful and has patience with all of his class members..He is a great teacher and there is no need for improvement.
Mr James Taylor is an excellent mentor. Very informative, and helpful. I feel ready to go on my home buying journey .
I am loving the 1st time homebuyers class! I never knew there was so much to learn before buying a house. Mr Taylor does a great job presenting everything and answering our questions. I love that it is interactive with a live teacher, and not just a robo class with vague, basic info. I have already recommended taking this course to several people. One thing that I would like to change is, I would love to have copies of the charts and "pages" from the presentation. (Or maybe a way to save a video of it, with a special sign in so only class members can access it again, to review what qe learned.) It helps me remember things better to see the same thing as it was presented. We get downloads, but they look different, so it is hard to remember how it was presented in class. I try to take lots of notes though. I am so excited to soon be able to buy my first house. \uD83D\uDE0A Thanks for the great class!
This nonprofit is doing great with getting the right information out to home buyers. I have no suggestions for improvement
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The nonprofit is doing everything well - people oriented, professional, compassionate, understanding, and a willingness to see others succeed.
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Read moreThis nonprofit has done a great job of simplifying the home buying process. The information provided & the delivery was easily digested. The resources are out of this world. Not sure how they could improve.
The VHCDC is amazing at empowering potential home owners with the knowledge to be comfortable with the home buying process.
The VHCDC is a wonderful program it has helped me tremendously to understand how to go ahead and start to search for a home get my information together to buy a home talk to a realtora lenders and giving me information and resources to do so I think this is a wonderful program
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This nonprofit is very informative and I have great information that will help in the future I'll advise other family members and friends to take the courses and get information that is valuable to new home owners. There is nothing more I can say for this nonprofit to improve because the representatives help in so many ways by explaining step-by-step
They did perfect. They gave me everything that I needed to know. All the information was on point I got to meet one of the realtors and counselors.
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The program was wonderful. I learned a lot. Mr. James was very detailed and gave a lot of examples of different documents that will be needed. He answered all questions that was asked. Loved the class.
I'm in the First Time home buyer's Program. I have been completely impressed with the information and knowledge of the course. Mr Taylor has been great presenting the modules.
They are doing excellent and Mr. Taylor was very thorough and a big help. There is no improvement needed right now
I have been trying to get into these classes. I go on line and I can not get into the classroom. There is no help for the who barely can get thur a computer. I tried to get to the class this morning no luck. I don't understand what I am doing wrong. I really need this classes. My former certification expired 2019 . I did regular classroom. I worked hard for that. Please help me
I love this. I have learned so much. It is very informative. Some things I knew but a lot I didn't. I'm so proud of myself because I'm doing something for my family. I really don't see anything that needs to be improved. I'm satisfied with it.
The instructional materials and resources are informative .Haven't finish the program yet but so far the guest speaker Mr. James Taylor is amazing .
I believe they can get better lenders that reply faster and work on getting the approval letter done ASAP take a little bit of time to get that squared away and communicate back-and-forth WOULD also be a PLUS
The nonprofit is doing a good job at informing people and supporting them with the tools they need to become a homeowner.
I truly enjoyed my experience. It was very informative. The instructor was amazing and very easy to understand.
The first time homebuyers class was very informative. I wished that I had taken the class before trying to buy a house few months ago it would have saved me some heartache and headaches.
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The Homebuyers Webinar was excellent! Very informative and the host was very patient and answered everyone's question and allowed feedback amongst the attendant. I have been to many webinars and this v one stands out and is top-rated!
Great program to receive information and financial support to become a homeowner. I highly recommend and encourage others to participate if eligible
I think it's very educational, it definitely have me some tips on how to improve credit.... To be mindful of my spending habits..... However I had problems getting into module 4 and tried to contact someone on this matter and couldn't reach noone ... Overall it's a good class
I think this is a great opportunity for people to gain knowledge in the home buying process and so much more.
VHCDC is an actively, productive part of the community. I have happily served the community alongside many professionals who have graciously volunteered with the organization on housing projects. It's a pleasure to be a part of the Virginia Housing and Community Development Corporation!
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I appreciate all the information on the first time homebuyer program. It was detailed and we could ask any questions about anything we wanted to know.
The class for first time home buyer's was good but it doesn't assist people outside of the Newport News, Norfolk Area. Was looking forward to getting assistance for my area.
This program is very helpful but there is so much to know I would suggest if a paper packet sent to individuals or more information visible online to review
The information being provided for first time home buyers is exceptional. The details, key words, and the patience is phenomenal and appreciated. The way the class is being held is great.
I went through the first time home owner classes. They were very informative and the instructor was open to answering questions and provided good information. I really enjoyed the classes. I dont have any recommendations for improvement. Job well done.
The homeowner class program was very helpful and they teach you a lot of information you need to know about owning your own home I will recommend the class to anyone that is trying to buy a home I love this class I also learned a lot of things from this class....thank you
Homeowners class program very helpful-- information is sent out regular --- counselors answer questions-
The nonprofit is doing well breaking not all the steps that need to be followed to become a first time home buyer. Explaining in great details.
I cannot respond to the questions because I missed the opportunity for the classes. I am an early election official and missed the first 2 sessions. I did not know if I could join the classes after missing 2 sessions. I hope there will be another class in the future that I can attend.
Helping individuals like me, be able to get a home as a first time homeowner. Giving me the tools to be successful. I'm not sure what the company can improve because I'm just starting out. But what the company is doing is awesome
So far, I've just taken the 1st Time Home Buyers course. It is excellent. The instructor is passionate about helping others. Improvements = N/A
I don't know what I would have done without this program. It was empowering and lifechanging. Mr. James Taylor gave us the specific steps that we needed to take to navigate through the complex and sometimes intimidating process of buying a home. He was also available and responsive to my requests for help long after I completed the course. With his aid, I was able to purchase my dream home.
The housing class hosted by Mr Taylor was great!!!!!! I haven't heard from anyone about credit counseling yet so follow up would be an area that needs work
VHCDC is providing me with all of the necessary tools and supports to purchase a home. The staff members and associated agencies have been a wealth of knowledge and exude professionalism. I feel equipped and confident in my home buying experience.
VHCDC has a passion for assisting the community by providing useful resources for success to its residents and small businesses.
Helping people to achieve their dream home with much needed information and guidance just keep doing what they are doing
I want to say, I appreciate James for going above and beyond to answer any of our questions. Also, I am thankful for the resources that has been given to me for help with our business
Great customer service. Helping me with my application. Answering any questions I may have in a timely manner
I have really enjoyed the home-ownership program taught by Mr. Taylor. I could see that he really loves educating people about home- ownership. He has shared so much knowledge about the process and things to look for. This class has given me a new found hope to becoming a home owner. Thank you so much!
I stumbled upon this opportunity to learn while scrolling on Facebook. My friend clicked that she was interested so I read the description of the class and decided I, too, was interested. Let me say I got way more than I bargained for. The information that is being shared is invaluable and I'm so glad this organization offered the help.
I love that it is nonprofit and is purpose is to help the public educate themselves. I do like the open opportunity to help people improve their housing situations and provide them with key information. However I did notice a few dislikes. I didn’t like how upon registering for an online slot , the requirements or necessary downloads and documents weren’t told right then. They were told a day or so before the scheduled class. Also, the magnitude of what was needed was also deterring. Many people don’t have access to download all the needs apps and programs. It is also difficult and timely to obtain all their credit reports. Additionally, three hours is pretty long for a video visit and it’s during dinner and wind down times. Many people have young children in the home. All in all , i was discouraged from the program because i was overwhelmed with all the preparation it would need. I hope i can join you all in person for classes in the future
Highly informative content with practical tips and tools to achieve home ownership with hands-on and engaging activities for participants.
Loved the First Time Home Buyer College class! It was very informative and insightful. Very excited to take advantage of many of the FREE services.
I am half way through the course and it has been very resourceful and helpful! Mr. Taylor is very professional, understanding, knowledgeable, and helpful! The information is detailed and easy to understand.
I enjoyed the First time home buyers class. Mr. Taylor did a great job discuss the home buying process. I learned alot.
Thanks so much
Dr. Ricks
This nonprofit is a great tool to help give the community information that they never knew was out there to receive!!!
I would like to take this time to say that Mr. Taylor is a life saver when it comes to this!!! I needed an intervention & Mr. Taylor assisted me with kindness & gentleness while providing superior professionalism. I am still in line for his leadership & expertise. I was afraid to step out but I surely am glad I did & I think you should too.
I have been a board member and have been thoroughly impressed with the demonstrated passion of the board members as they educate and empower the local community. The willingness to contribute personal funds in support of VHCDC’s mission is a great indication of how seriously they take the mission. Seeing minorities attend classes on home ownership and economic empowerment and then seeing the culmination of their dreams of home ownership brings great satisfaction.
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The level of foresight that went into the development of this organization is astounding. This is evidenced by the type and quality of the courses offered to the communities it serves. Individuals and small businesses obtain not only knowledge to become self- sufficient and experience growth, but also the guidance and support they need all along the way. I’m glad to be a part of this organization!
This has been one of the experiences I’ve had that truly connects with the people. The passion to help and the willingness to bring everyone together for a common goal.
Even with limited resources VHDCD finds a way to make the impossible possible. Now as they get through all the drawbacks that are facing America there is still forward progress to ensure the mission is met.
VHCDC is a non-profit organization serving the Hampton Roads area. They are pioneers for economic equality and have developed products and services that advance opportunities for disadvantaged and disenfranchised residents across the region. Whether it is business development training, philanthropy financing or affordable homeownership options, most VHCDC products and services are custom designed and free of charge. They have earned the reputation of excellence in public service and deserve your support at every level.
It's difficult to sum up in words how beneficial VHCDC has been in my home buying process. More specifically, Mr. James Taylor has practically held my hand throughout all of my doubts and fears of being a first-time home buyer. I attended the home buying course for two consecutive years before actually deciding to make my purchase. I am currently in the final stages and I can truly say Mr. Taylor reassured me in ways no one else could. He went above and beyond to provide trusted resources, give advice and provide the encouragement I needed to keep pressing forward.
I have referred several friends to VHCDC and I personally plan to use the resources/services in other capacities, if applicable. Being the first in my family to purchase a home since my aunt in 2001, I know for a fact that I would not have had the confidence to do this on my own. Coupled with my faith and fortitude, VHCDC has been the stepping stone I needed to reach such a milestone in my life. As my Pastor stated when I told her the awesome news, "God has brought me a mighty long way!"
Thank you all from the bottom of my heart and please continue doing exactly what you're doing! It's very necessary to the vitality of our community!
C. Pervall
This organization has provided invaluable advice and training for how to purchase a home and workshops on financial wellness. The organization constantly offers resources for small businesses and for personal growth.
James Taylor has always been very community oriented. He has helped promote our brand and has been a willing advocate for our students and parents. He shares his knowledge with those he encounters and seems to want the best for everyone around him. VHCDC provides vital information for our community that will help get more of us to home ownership even if we don't think we can get to that point.
So about 2.5-3 years ago I was needing to take a first time home buyers class to qualify for the program I was going through to purchase my home.
This was my second time attending one of these in my life time BUT it was SO MUCH MORE!!!! Not only did I learn about things such as a home inspection, but I also learned about making an offer, different types of loan programs, and got a better idea about how long the actual process takes. I learned about being pre-qualified, securing a real estate agent and even learned a LOT about how my credit score can affect this entire process. Lastly, I learnd about points at closing, earnest money, having a down payment, and what exactly an escrow account was. This particular class was so inclusive and chock full of useful information that even though I had bought a house over 10 years ago, half way across the country I actually LEARNED NEW , USEFUL information!!!! I found myself taking notes and referring back to them later during my particular home buying process. I also thought it was beyond helpful that there was a real-estate agent/broker who spoke to us about that section of the class and a mortgage specialist! It was so beyond what I expected! We. As participants were encouraged to ask questions and share related experiences. I'd definitely recommend this class to anyone who is about to start the home buying process. O am n so grateful to of been able to attend this class, especially for free!!!!!! It took me almost a year to find the perfect house and close on it but I knew from taking this class that it was OK as this process takes a while and sometimes you hit a snag and things have to be worked out before moving onto the next step of the process. Best Saturday I ever gave up.
Jenn McDonald
I never heard of this program until I received an email about their class. I took a chance and joined. The staff were very informative, helpful, knowledgeable, and just down to earth. The information that you receive from their class is overwhelming and useful. There is an abundance of resources that they are qualified and certified to assist ANYONE in any situation! With this program, there is NO REASON that you cannot obtain any form of housing. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with this non-profit in particular. I hope that fear does not hold anyone back from believing in their dreams and taking the necessary steps to achieving them. I took my steps and now I am on my way to homeownership! Thank you to all the staff that assisted me in making sound decisions on my journey. It's not over until I get my keys in hand!
Many of us desire or at least say that we want to do community work, revitalize our neighborhoods and help strengthen the financial wealth and well-being of others, but this is what VHCDC does regularly. If you're looking for a great nonprofit organization to get behind and support, this is the one! VHCDC is making a difference in many lives - from 1st-time home buyers to investors and small business owners.
The VHCDC has been a life line for deveoping relationships that allow for continuing education for building strong communities. Not only do they provide homeowner classes, entrepreneur and business classes but they have developed statigic relationships with key alliances that assist individules in acccomplish these pursuits. VHCDC continually seeks opportunities to serve the greater Tidewater area. Being involved with VHCDC has been a win-win for our family!
VHCDC is a quality resource for the community it serves. It provides the knowledge and assistance to help those who care to make their home and community a better place to live.
It covers all aspects of obtaining and maintaining a home.
VHCDC is an awesome organization. I participate in the Investment Club, and find the leadership and the program to be an excellent experience and service. James Taylor is very knowledgeable and an excellent leader and teacher.
I attended Part I of the Business Startup class on 9/27/14 and it was very informative and fun. It enlightened me on the importance of good accounting practices, which is key information for someone anticipating retirement in the not so distant future and seeking insight into potential entrepreneurship. The interaction between presenter and attendees was stimulating as well. Thanks for an overall great learning experience! ...and did I mention it was free?
Review from Guidestar
I attended Part I of your Business Start-Ups Class and was very pleased. The presenter was very knowledgeable and informative. She presented real time examples and practical information. Can't wait to attend Part II of this series. Did not know there was this kind of information out there for free. Please keep up the fantastic work.
Review from Guidestar
I came upon VHCDC through internet. I was looking for a loan from reliable source. With credit score being so low, no one was willing to spend time with me. I saw the description of VHCDC and called
the office. I was told some one will be in touch with me. I did not expect much hope, considered it
another brush off. To my surprise, I receive a phone call from Ms. Dashera Walton at VHCDC the same day. She introduce herself and spoke with me at great length. She sent a form to me by email,
asked me to fill and send back to her as soon as possible. She said she would try her best to find loan for me. In the mean time. she and Mr. James Taylor, Director, continued staying in touch, provided me advice and guidance regarding ways to improve my credit scores and free leads to follow to obtain work. I sincerely appreciate the assistance they have provided and consider VHCDC a very helpful organization.
Review from Guidestar
Ms. Taylor has equipped our newly established investment group "Distinguished Investment Group" with the knowledge to be successful investors. Very impressed by his knowledge and to pass it forward so we can all benefit from it. Keep up the great work!
Fatima Williams
We've had our first meeting with Mr. James Taylor and I can say I am extremely Impressed. I cannot thank him enough and VHCDC for this learning experience. It's truly a Blessing!!
Words cannot express the amount of appreciation I have.
Thanks again.
In 2013 I had the privilege of attending MBE Venture Weekend facilitated by James Taylor. The program was well worth the investment, which gave you a full business strategic plan to move your business forward into overdrive. I would love to attend more workshops like this.
Review from Guidestar
VHCDC serves our partnership in the capacity of a mentor/incubator for Central Virginia Small Business Investment Partnership (CVSBIP). Mr. Taylor (VHCDC) has guided/ and assisted our Partnership from the very beginning and he continues to be available to assist CVSBIP partners when needed. He has provided us with all the tools needed to become a successful "Investment Club". Before meeting Mr. Taylor , I thought I was a somewhat savvy investor; however, after the many visits to our meetings, I learned that I was a rookie investor. I have learned so much under the tutelage of Mr. Taylor!
We were provided, by VHCDC, training to gain an understanding of how to purchase stock, learning the terminology used in the stock market & investing, assistance in composing our partnership agreement and developing CVSBIP's Operating Procedures; and he ensured that CVSBIP's paperwork was correct before submitting it to the SCC, it was accepted without the need for corrections nor a request for additional documents. This nonprofit assistance was/is phenomenal!
Review from Guidestar
Sorry VHCDC for taking so long to respond, these past 2 weeks were entirely busy. I appreciate you giving me this opportunity to write this review and hopefully, the feedback will help assist you in improving this wonderful and educational program.
I lived in Central Virginia and had been a client of this program for the past year and a half. I am part of Central Virginia Small Business Investment Partnership and on their leadership team. Mr. James Taylor is/was our mentor and training coordinator. We received the required training, follow-up, and support from Mr. Taylor. We have had many meetings and check and balances to this program, and its learning phrases, however, there are a few areas of concerns that I hope would be addressed during this review.
1. Training... even though, the training we received was right on track and we understood, what was needed, talking to some of our members/partners, the area that was really needed, did not occur in this training, online training and demonstration. This was the area needed to understand, researched, and get most of our information. I feel that a couple of classes in this area would had help those individuals who may had been new or limited to investment with online information gathering.
2. Couples, i. e. husband/wife team. It is my understanding, if a couple get involved with the program, it is on an individual basics. They must contribute separate individual funding to be part of this investment. Example, to become a partner, each of them must paid fees and contribution each month to the investment club, therefore, if the contribution and/or fees are $50.00 per partner, this is a $100.00 per month from this family budget. Anyway, can we looked at this issue and maybe, we can change or reduce this funding issue? Or come up with some idea of family reduction contribution to this requirement???
3. There is/was a misunderstanding of prospective members/ partners attending regular meetings, who had not attend VHCDC presentations. To me,this is key to the success to membership because it covers what this program is and what is its objective(s). If potential members/partners, who had no exposure to the presentation and/or knowledge to the program, it is a disadvantage to them and to the investment clubs and our teaching and learning points at the meetings which may not covered those areas needed that the presentation does covered. It is my suggestion, any potential member/partner will be required to attend your VHCDC presentation prior to attending investment clubs meetings.
4. It appears that there is a disconnect on invitations. We should re-evaluate this part of the program. There had been so many no shows.
5. Could we also re-evaluate meeting at public meeting locations, there is no privacy.
6. I know that the program is designed for long- term opportunity and benefits, however, I was wondering we could designed a short-term program? From my observation, many potential members are looking for faster results in their investment opportunities. Could we have both?
Again, I appreciate the opportunity given to share my thoughts and/or suggestions. I hope that the above feedback and recommendations will help improve this program and move it forward.
Regards
Thomas House Jr.
Review from Guidestar
Good morning,
My name is Bonita Kenney and my housing information has just been completed, and it was a long and painful process. I have just recently applied at the Warwick SRO downtown Newport News and now waiting for acceptance. I hope that I will be given an opportunity to have a place I can call my own.
I am seeking employment, although I work under the table cleaning, and cooking for a private source I will be able to pay my rent. I understand the whole process of who comes first as far as housing setting priorities, however the state needs to change there are many single women without any help today. Especially those who seek greatness, not trying to fraud people to get what they want, but what they need to have a better life; such as my self.
Today I am grateful that everything seems to finally fall into place. Thank you,
Bonita Kenney
Review from Guidestar
I have been privy to several VHCDC initiatives and can say from experience, their clients are well cared for, well-informed, and treated in an professional manner regardless of the client's situation. VHCDC has set a standard for itself to conduct business ethically and maintain the level of professionalism one would expect from a company handling confidential information.
Review from Guidestar
VHCDC is a valuable resource & advocate for business and economic development in under- served and under- utilized communities. Also, VHCDC conducts workshops & conferences that exposes small and emerging business to cutting edge practices and strategies!
DERRICK ALFORD, CEO
FISCAL FITNESS TAX & FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.
RICHMOND, VA.
Review from Guidestar
We are most grateful to the staff at the Virginia Housing And Community Development Corporation and their guidance over the years. In the areas of business & finance development they are a great help. They have done a great expanding.
DLT
Review from Guidestar
I became familiar with VHCDC in 2004 as a double-minority owner of a distribution company. Though my company was located in the Northern portion of North Carolina ( near the Virginia line) I received an invitation from VHCDC to attend a conference for small businesses and to participate in a "Business Plan" writing contest where the top prize was an investment from an angel investment company.
I did not participate in the contest and initially had reservations about attending, however, after receiving the agenda, and the list of workshop presenters, I knew that I had to make an effort to go and to take my sales consultants with me. I have never regretted that decision.
It was not only jam packed with useful information and advice, it afforded me the opportunity to network with small business owners from so many different places and we all altruistically shared connections, contacts, ideas, suggestions and advice. James Taylor, Executive Director, not only demonstrated great leadership skills he also showed us how to plan, coordinate and execute an effective conference with meaningful information from experts in federal government, state government, private sector as well as funding opportunities for our endeavors.
Although I moved to central N.C. to become caregiver for my mom who passed away in 2012, James has maintained contact with me and now that I can once again focus on business, I certainly plan to revive this professional connection that has continued to develop, expand and reach out to entrepreneurs in neighboring states. Thank you James Taylor for helping me to connect with partners who were significant in helping me to realize a higher level of success in distribution.
Review from Guidestar