Piedmont Housing Alliance Celebrates 40+ Years of Impact!

We’re still buzzing from the incredible energy of Beyond 40: Celebrating Four Decades of Impact on May 10th! It was truly a heartwarming evening, bringing together so many dedicated community members, partners, and friends like you.

The night was a vibrant testament to 40+ years of building pathways to home and fostering communities of care in the Charlottesville region. We celebrated our history, enjoyed great food, and were moved by inspiring words and music from Richelle Claiborne.

A true highlight was honoring our Changemaker Awardees, individuals whose extraordinary work embodies our core values:

HOME: Carmelita Woods
Carmelita is the current president of the Fifeville Neighborhood Association, Vice Chair of the Piedmont Community Land Trust, on the board of AHIP and Charlottesville Low Income Housing Coalition, and a past board member of Abundant Life Ministries.

JUSTICE: Rosa Hudson and Shymora Cooper
Rosa joined the Piedmont Housing Alliance in 1990. She has helped over 200 families become homeowners during her tenure there. Rosa has been a member of the Virginia Federation of Housing Counselors, Inc. She is a member of the advisory board of the Public Housing Association of Residents (PHAR), the Charlottesville Redevelopment and Housing Authority (CRHA) Grievance Panel, and the Charlottesville Quality Community Council (QCC).

Shymora is the Financial Opportunity Center and Housing Hub Manager at Piedmont Housing Alliance with a background in public housing work. Shymora is also a member of the Charlottesville School Board.

COMMUNITY: Bob Newman
After a notable career dedicated to advancing affordable housing, Bob retired from VCDC in April 2025. For over 11 years, Bob led VCDC. His commitment to affordable housing goes beyond his time at VCDC, stretching across his entire career, where he has been a passionate advocate for increasing access to housing across Virginia and the broader region.

HOPE: Ezhar Zahid
Ezhar joined the Piedmont Housing Alliance board in 2023. He serves as a Youth Ambassador for Piedmont Housing and has served as a member of the Park Design Committee and Rebranding Committee for Kindlewood. He is also a former member of the Charlottesville City Youth Council. As student at James Madison University, Ezhar is an engaged student studying engineering and innovation.

RESPECT: Myrtle Houchens
Ms. Houchens has lived in Charlottesville for more than 37 years, spending most of her time volunteering in one form or another. Some of her work has included founding a community center, performing grief counseling, and working with the Thomas Jefferson Area Food Bank. In 2009, she was recognized for her work with the community when she was named among the Daily Progress Distinguished Dozen.

Their dedication to our shared mission is truly inspiring. As we continue forward, we remain committed to partnering with our community to ensure safe, affordable housing for all.