The housing landscape for Native American communities is evolving, and with it, the need for specialized education and training. From development planning to financial management, a robust calendar of events is set to equip tribal housing professionals with the tools they need to succeed. These programs, spanning from June to, offer a blend of in-person and virtual sessions, ensuring accessibility and flexibility for all participants.
The training initiatives are meticulously designed to address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Native American housing entities. Whether it’s understanding the intricacies of the Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG) or mastering the art of self-monitoring these programs promise to deliver comprehensive knowledge and practical skills.
Development Planning: A Three-Part Journey
The Development Planning series is a cornerstone of the training calendar, offering a three-part journey that begins with foundational concepts and culminates in advanced project management. The first part, scheduled for June 23-24 in Oklahoma City, provides a comprehensive introduction to development planning, covering everything from project conception to compliance requirements. This foundational course is followed by two virtual sessions in July and August, focusing on project implementation, management, and the construction process.
Participants will delve into the nuances of planning, procurement, construction, and closeout, gaining valuable insights into the entire development lifecycle. The series concludes with an overview of operations and project management, ensuring that attendees are well-equipped to handle all aspects of housing development.
Housing Policy and Self-Monitoring: Ensuring Compliance and Excellence
Understanding and implementing effective housing policies is crucial for the success of any tribal housing program. The Housing Policy training, scheduled for June 30-July 1 in Phoenix, provides an overview of HUD’s Office of Native American Programs (ONAP) housing policies. Participants will learn how to develop, implement, and monitor policies that comply with federal requirements while addressing community needs.
Complementing this is the Self-Monitoring training, which guides Tribally Designated Housing Entities (TDHEs) and tribal leaders in conducting effective annual self-monitoring. This training, offered multiple times throughout the year, covers key areas such as financial management, procurement, admission/occupancy, and internal controls. By strengthening internal oversight, these programs support sustainable housing solutions and promote responsible stewardship of federal funds.
Financial Management and Procurement: Building a Strong Foundation
Effective financial management is the backbone of any successful housing program. The Intermediate Financial Management training, scheduled for August 12-13 in Albuquerque, discusses the application of governmental GAAP and strong financial management systems. Participants will gain an understanding of fund types, accounting basics, and financial statement components, ensuring compliance with NAHASDA program-specific financial activities.
The Contract Administration and Procurement training, offered multiple times throughout the year, provides knowledge and understanding to conduct efficient and effective procurement and contract management. This training covers pre-planning, purchasing basics, procurement planning, and policy development, ensuring that attendees are well-versed in the practical aspects of procurement.
From development planning to financial management, these training programs are designed to empower Native American housing professionals with the skills and knowledge they need to transform their communities. By participating in these initiatives, tribal housing entities can ensure compliance, promote sustainability, and deliver affordable housing solutions that meet the unique needs of Native American communities.
