To our members, partners, and supporters:

Looking back on 2024, it’s clear this was a pivotal year for affordable housing. The changes our industry experienced underscore why organizations like NASLEF matter. Our collective expertise, commitment, and partnerships provide the momentum to help carry out our mission: to empower locally engaged, mission driven housing and community investment partners to build thriving communities.

The beauty of NASLEF is that there are so many individuals and organizations who are connected and working toward the same goal: to build thriving communities. It is truly a forum where we can all come together and have honest conversations about the important work that needs to get done in so many local communities. These conversations are always guided by our core values: collaboration, local presence, impact, lifelong learning, unity, and trusted partners.

I was inspired to see us continuing the dialogue in 2024 about how NASLEF can remain steadfast in creating a lasting impact on local communities across the country. I would like to especially thank NASLEF’s Executive Director, Michelle Foster, for leading these discussions with intention and a forward-thinking approach, always keeping our members and partners top of mind.

As the organization’s first Executive Director, Michelle has significantly increased collaboration among our different groups over the past two years. She has also played a key role in further developing NASLEF’s Emerging Leaders Program, which actively identifies and develops the next generation of leaders within the affordable housing industry.

Lastly, I’m proud of NASLEF’s growing role in shaping policy. Thank you to our members, investor partners, and allies on the Hill for championing the Affordable Housing Credit Act with bipartisan support. I’m looking forward to seeing NASLEF amplify its voice on key platforms and play an important role in both Washington, D.C., and local communities.

Looking ahead at the coming years, I’m confident that NASLEF will continue to expand its impact across the country. With a new President and Board at the helm, NASLEF’s bar for leadership continues to be raised. It’s been a privilege to serve as President of NASLEF fort he past two years, and I am looking forward to seeing new leadership carry our mission forward—advancing creative solutions in affordable housing and amplifying NASLEF’s role in shaping stronger communities.

With Gratitude,

Ari Beliak, President