Lawson is deeply honored to receive the 2024 Jeff Miller Award at this year's Hope House Foundation Gala.
"This award acknowledges a corporation that exemplifies strength in business and community service, demonstrated through their leadership, integrity, imagination, and optimism," said Hope House Foundation board member and past president, DiAna White. "Lawson embodies every one of those characteristics and more."
Lawson, a leader in the development, construction, and management of multifamily housing, has partnered with Hope House Foundation for decades. Hope House Foundation provides essential services to developmentally disabled adults, supporting their independence. This partnership has enabled Hope House to offer on-site, individualized services to residents at Lawson-owned and managed properties.
Their latest collaboration, Market Heights Apartments in Norfolk, is a testament to their shared commitment. Market Heights is a 164-unit Low Income Housing Tax Credit community, offering 100% affordable housing to residents at 40%, 50%, and 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI). The community includes 17 handicapped-accessible units compliant with Section 504 and 80 units designed with Universal Design principles. High-end amenities, often rare in affordable housing, include a resident clubhouse, community room, secure building access, elevators, fitness center, accessible playground, on-site laundry, indoor bicycle storage, and an enclosed dog park. The apartments feature open floor plans, with many offering balconies and city views. Unit amenities include granite kitchen countertops, in-unit washer/dryer hookups, and modern kitchens with dishwashers. Hope House staff have dedicated space on-site to provide supportive services to developmentally disabled residents.
In addition to their focus on providing quality housing, Lawson and Hope House emphasize resident health. Hope House obtained a $100,000 grant from LISC Hampton Roads, powered by Sentara Health, to fund a mobile food pantry, allowing residents to shop for fresh groceries at no cost. The grant also supports a private telehealth booth and an accessible fitness center with wellness classes.
"This recognition, named in honor of a visionary leader like Jeff Miller, inspires us to deepen relationships and continue collaborating with impactful partners such as Hope House," said Carl Hardee, President and CEO of Lawson. "Together with Hope House, we strive to provide the best possible home for individuals and families. It is our passion to create communities that people are proud to call home. Housing is truly the foundation upon which so many other aspects of life are built."
