A longtime affordable housing nonprofit has changed its name to True Ground Housing Partners.
The move marks a new era for the Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing (APAH), which was founded 35 years ago to help meet the housing needs around Arlington, Virginia. The organization provides housing to more than 5,000 individuals and families through 2,800 apartments in 23 properties in Arlington, Fairfax, and Loudoun counties in Virginia and Montgomery County, Maryland.
It has another 1,400 units in the pipeline in those jurisdictions and Washington, D.C.
The name change reflects the nonprofit developer’s growing reach.
“Over the past 35 years, APAH has continually evolved and expanded to ensure we build, own, and operate affordable multifamily housing communities that provide our residents with a safe and inclusive place to call home,” says Carmen Romero, president and CEO. “Today, when housing is at its least affordable point in our history, the residents and communities we serve need a firm foundation and true partner more than ever. Our new name—True Ground Housing Partners—builds on our legacy to reflect the full breadth of what we do and what we hope to build in the future.”
Officials explain the True Ground Housing Partners name showcases the organization’s approach to affordable housing. “‘True’ denotes a commitment and sincerity to bring hope and opportunity to a housing environment that leaves many feeling left out. ‘Ground’ signifies the firm foundation provided to residents,” say the leaders, noting that “partners” acknowledges the roots of the former APAH brand and builds on the idea that affordable housing requires many voices.
In addition to providing lower-income residents with safe, affordable housing, True Ground has differentiated itself by incorporating social work best practices into its resident services delivery model, working with local service providers and volunteers to develop its CORES (Certified Organization for Resident Engagement and Services) resident services program, according to the team.
“What’s not changing is what our organization stands for. Our passionate staff and our resident-centered communities remain the same. We will continue to advocate for bold and innovative policies that help residents living in True Ground properties achieve their dreams,” Romero says.
The True Ground logo features a cityscape that represents multifamily housing and properties and a leaf that symbolizes the nurturing care, support, and growth provided to residents.
“Our True Ground Housing Partners brand identity communicates our commitment to the residents who call a True Ground property home, and our commitment to building and preserving housing across the region. With this new brand, we are ready to show how affordable housing combined with care, optimism, and support, can transform communities,” says Garrett Jackson, director of philanthropy and communications at True Ground.
