Community Corporation of Santa Monica Honored with Affordable Housing Leadership Award

Community Corporation of Santa Monica Honored

In an impressive recognition of its contributions to affordable housing, the Community Corporation of Santa Monica (Community Corp.) has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Affordable Housing Leadership Award by the RCLCO Foundation. This acknowledgment highlights the essential role that Community Corp. plays in enhancing the quality of life for low-income families in Santa Monica, California, an area that faces one of the most challenging housing markets in the United States.

A Commitment to Affordable Housing

Established 40 years ago, Community Corp. has dedicated itself to addressing the urgent need for affordable rental units in Santa Monica. Today, it provides over 2,000 units to low-income households, accounting for nearly 5% of the city's total housing stock. With ongoing construction projects aiming to add more than 150 additional affordable units, Community Corp. continues to respond to the burgeoning need for housing in a city plagued by escalating prices and recent devastating wildfires.

The RCLCO Foundation, known for supporting initiatives aimed at preserving and increasing affordable housing, presented the award alongside a $10,000 grant to aid in the corporation’s development efforts. This announcement serves to amplify the nonprofit’s mission of creating sustainable and inclusive communities.

Addressing Housing Shortages

The recent wildfires in Los Angeles resulted in the loss of approximately 12,000 homes, highlighting the dire housing shortages already affecting the region, where over 75,000 residents experience homelessness. Tara Barauskas, Executive Director of Community Corp., stated, "Our mission of improving lives and neighborhoods has never been more critically needed." In response to the catastrophic events, Community Corp. promptly established evacuation centers for displaced residents, showcasing their unwavering commitment to community support beyond just housing.

Through its various programs, including afterschool initiatives and green community projects, Community Corp. seeks to foster a more connected and sustainable lifestyle for its residents. As an integral part of its community engagement, the organization has provided food aid, transportation assistance, and health resources throughout the challenges of the pandemic and the recent wildfires. Their proactive approach places significant focus on filling the gaps faced by families in need.

Looking Forward

In 2025, Community Corp. plans to enhance its affordable housing offerings further by pursuing additional development projects in sought-after areas such as Santa Monica and Culver City, as well as welcoming the opening of the new Red Tail Crossing building in Westchester. These initiatives reflect a strategic response to the ongoing housing crisis and a commitment to uplifting lower-income households in higher-resource neighborhoods.

Bob Gardner, Treasurer of the organization, emphasized the organization’s impactful legacy: "I have seen firsthand how this organization impacts people's lives with quality housing, and I am continually energized by the dedication and compassion of the staff."

The unanimous decision by the RCLCO Foundation Board to present the award to Community Corp. underscores their pivotal role in shaping the Santa Monica community positively. As they pave the way for future developments, the organization is sure to leave a lasting impact on the landscape of affordable housing.

For more information about the Community Corporation of Santa Monica and their ongoing initiatives, visit their official website.