The 2025 Investing in Communities: CAHEC at Work is now available online! Take a minute to explore this interactive platform and learn how we are positively impacting the residents and communities within our footprint.

Each year, our industry works smarter through relationship building, due diligence, and execution, often producing similarly high-quality results. While some may question efficiency and focus, the reality is that stakeholder needs, both internal and external, continue to rise and it's our responsibility to meet - and preferably exceed - those expectations. -Dana Boole, President & CEO

When Mardia Stephenson talks about Water Garden Park, she doesn’t just describe an apartment community - she describes home. Mardia moved to Water Garden Park in 2014, right when the senior community first opened. More than a decade later, she still remembers how it felt on move-in day: welcoming, seamless, and ready for her to begin a new chapter. “Everything was perfect,” she recalled. “It felt like it was meant to be.”

For 30 years, Mardia worked as a speech therapist, dedicating her life to helping others find their voice. After retirement, she realized that maintaining her independence meant finding housing that was both manageable and affordable. Before finding Water Garden Park, Mardia lived in a nearby rental house. While it served its purpose, it no longer fit her lifestyle. A friend referred her to the newly opening community, and the transition proved life-changing. “I wouldn’t be able to afford an apartment this nice if it were market rate,” Mardia explained. “It would easily be twice as much.” Affordable housing has allowed her to manage her expenses, care for her two beloved cats, and still enjoy the activities that bring her happiness. “Having affordable rent helps me tremendously,” she explained. 

Here's another reminder to register for the 2026 CAHEC Partners Conference, being held on Tuesday, June 9, and Wednesday, June 10, at the Raleigh Convention Center in Raleigh, North Carolina. Registration closes on May 22, 2026.

Our staff has been working hard to plan another amazing event this year. Please check out the event website for more information on the conference agenda and registration.

For attendees needing overnight accommodations, CAHEC has reserved a block of guest rooms for this year’s event. The Raleigh Marriot City Center has rooms starting at $221/night (plus taxes and fees). Reservations can be made online or by calling (919) 833-1120. This rate will expire on May 7, 2026. All attendees must register for the conference prior to securing their hotel room. 

If you have questions about the conference, or if you would like to be a sponsor, please contact Stefanie Lee at slee@cahec.com. We look forward to making the 2026 conference one to remember!

Congratulations to the following properties on achieving 100% occupancy:

Azalea Park - Summerville, SC

Calabash Meadows - Calabash, NC

Overlook Ridge - Stuarts Draft, VA

The Peaks of Lexington - Lexington, SC