Building resilience, one home at a time
Praxis supports community networks working to bring positive change to Appalachia
Fahe, a member-owned and member-governed purpose-driven network, envisions a future for Appalachia characterized by stability and prosperity, improved living conditions, and a robust sense of community. Made up of more than 50 community-based nonprofits across Kentucky, Tennessee, West Virginia, Virginia, Alabama, and Maryland, each member nonprofit is staffed by local leaders who possess an intimate understanding of their communities' needs and capacities.
Fahe’s goal is the development and preservation of affordable housing while providing mortgage services that enhance homeownership accessibility. The organization actively invests in community facilities and initiates economic and infrastructure development tailored to the unique challenges faced by rural areas. Additionally, Fahe emphasizes sustainability and energy efficiency in housing initiatives while engaging in research and policy advocacy aimed at dismantling systemic barriers to economic opportunity.
While rooted in the Appalachian region, Fahe also advocates on the national level for investments in underserved communities across the nation. Since its inception in 1980, Fahe has invested over $2 billion and positively impacted the lives of more than one million people. Looking ahead to its 50th anniversary in 2030, the organization has set ambitious goals: doubling its financial impact by constructing 60,000 new housing units and increasing total investments to $3 billion – thereby aiming to improve the lives of another million individuals.
Featured Impact Story
Housing Can’t Wait
Arnold and Virginia Weaver
Following a catastrophic flood, Arnold Weaver recounted his family’s harrowing experience: “We were still in bed and would have probably gotten up in 30 minutes, an hour at most. It might have been too late if we waited that long.”
The Weavers managed to evacuate their home just as the flooding began, witnessing their house being overtaken by rising waters. Uncertainty loomed over their future as they grappled with the extensive damage to their home and contemplated leaving their community.
Recognizing the urgent housing needs of flood survivors, Housing Can’t Wait –alongside other Fahe members and longstanding housing partners – mobilized resources to provide immediate and permanent single-family housing solutions.
Since 2022, these collaborative efforts have yielded significant results: 88 new homes constructed and major rehabilitation of 305 existing homes. This initiative underscores the commitment to ensuring that families like the Weavers can remain rooted in their communities despite overwhelming challenges. Housing cannot wait; it is essential for recovery and rebuilding lives after such tragedies.
The Praxis commitment
Praxis Investment Management supports organizations through investments in Calvert Impact, an impact-investing institution that helps people around the world through community development financing. It’s part of the Praxis commitment to place approximately 1% of each of its funds to benefit neighborhoods and individuals through community development investments.