Community Reinvestment Workshop Series

Each year, NEDAP presents the Community Reinvestment Workshop Series for community groups, activists and organizers.  Workshops address critical financial justice and community development issues affecting New Yorkers and their neighborhoods.  Guest speakers share their knowledge, and community organizers and advocates have an opportunity to meet and exchange resources.

• Registration is required and is available online.
• Workshops are $30 per session, or $100 for the entire series.
• Scholarships are available on a limited basis, please contact Saara via email for more information.
• Workshops are open to community groups and advocates only.

11th Annual Community Reinvestment Workshop Series

Spring/Summer 2008

All sessions are from 10:00am - 1:00pm, breakfast provided.

1. Mechanics of a Foreclosure - Thursday, May 8

This workshop will walk participants through the foreclosure process in New York State, from mortgage default to home auction.  Presenters will describe the entities involved in a foreclosure, and resources available to homeowners representing themselves in court (pro se) or seeking legal representation.  The session is geared to housing counselors, organizers, and non-attorney advocates, and will include ample time for questions and discussion.

Presenters: Oda Friedheim, Queens Legal Aid; Josh Zinner, NEDAP

2. Strategies for Foreclosure Prevention - Thursday, May 15

Building on "Mechanics of a Foreclosure," this session will cover a range of foreclosure prevention strategies and resources, including loss mitigation, bankruptcy, and programs to help borrowers in distress.  Experts will discuss what homeowners and advocates need to know when negotiating with mortgage servicers, and a closing strategy session will allow participants to share their experiences and lessons learned on the ground.

Presenters: Herman de Jesus, South Brooklyn Legal Services; Bonita Dowling, Pratt Area Community Council; Lionel Ouellette, CHANGER; TBA; James Pagano, private attorney

3. Life of a Debt - Thursday, June 5

This session will explore the ins and outs of the debt industry, following the life of a debt as its bought and sold.  Consumer attorneys and advocates will discuss people's rights and options in debt collection, and how to avoid credit repair and debt consolidation scams. Presentations will be followed by a strategy session on how community groups can educate and organize their members on these issues.

Presenters: Claudia Wilner, NEDAP; TBA

4. Promoting Community Financial Justice - Thursday, June 19

This workshop will address the proliferation of high-cost and predatory financial services in low income communities, and highlight community responses.  Learn about tax refund loans, rent-to-own stores, pre-paid debit cards, subprime credit cards and international money transfers, for example, and their impact on NYC neighborhoods.  Guest presenters will discuss local campaigns to fight economic discrimination and promote fair lending, corporate accountability and community reinvestment.

Presenters: TBA

What People are Saying about NEDAP's Workshop Series:

"Presenters were experienced, knowledgeable, and generous with expertise and information." - AR

"My community is in desperate need of this information!" - CD

"This will help me counsel my clients." - SFR

"Great information and handouts. Excellent, motivating speakers." - KCO

"Wonderful workshop. Tools provided are extrememely useful and presented in a manner that is easy to digest. Thank you!" - ML