A nursery worker in Woodburn, Oregon, is grateful for the box of food, available each Wednesday since the pandemic began. A berry worker appreciates food and other supplies --"nos trajeron mascarillas y desinfectante" – helping farmworkers as they face physical and economic difficulties associated with COVID-19. 

Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month. From September 15 to October 15, they celebrate the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

Some tax preparers call it "the big money moment." They're talking about the time of year when consumers receive their tax refunds. The lump sum, especially if the individual qualifies for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), is often the largest payment they'll get all year long, says Molly Barackman-Eder, senior manager for financial capability at NeighborWorks America.

As we begin a new year — and a new decade — NeighborWorks America's network organizations are hard at work, doing what they do best. Some are exploring on new partnerships. Some are focusing on matching residents with new homes, with workforce training and with resources for staying sober or aging in place. Network leaders say they're finding inspiration in last year. And the lessons they've learned are serving as a roadmap for the year ahead.

The data are stark and clear: Despite an improving economy, the gap between black and white homeownership continues to be a wide one. Nationally, the black homeownership rate is 41 percent — nearly unchanged from 50 years ago, when the federal Fair Housing Act banned racial discrimination in our sector. That compares to the 71 percent of white adults who own a home. The gap is even wider now than it was in 1900, documents a study by Zillow.

The regular, thorough organizational assessments required of all nonprofits wanting to become and stay members of the NeighborWorks network is daunting. There is no denying it: The process requires significant staff time and is both demanding and rigorous. But it is a compelling point of differentiation for funders and policymakers, and many organizations have discovered a variety of internal benefits that have made them champions of the requirement.