We are proud to share that Self-Help Enterprises’ President and CEO, Tom Collishaw, has been inducted into Affordable Housing Finance’s 2025 Hall of Fame, a national recognition honoring leaders whose vision and commitment have shaped the future of affordable housing. The induction took place at the AHF Live conference in Chicago, where four long-time industry leaders were celebrated for their influence and service. 

Tom was honored for his decades of leadership at SHE, his advocacy for rural communities, and his role in advancing policies and programs that expand housing opportunities for people across California. His career has centered on equity, community partnership, and ensuring that every family has access to a safe and dignified place to call home. 

During the ceremony, Tom offered a reflection on SHE’s mission and the values that guide our work: 

“I accept this recognition on behalf of the organization I love, Self-Help Enterprises… When we do homeownership with people of color, it is not just providing an opportunity to break the cycle of family poverty, it is racial justice.” 

We congratulate Tom on this meaningful and well-deserved honor and celebrate the leadership and heart he brings to the communities we serve. 

For many homeowners on a fixed income, essential home repairs can be out of reach. Guadalupe Garcia Zarate, a resident of Farmersville, was facing just that until she learned about Self-Help Enterprises’ Rehabilitation Program. While visiting the city to pay her water bill, Ms. Zarate inquired about home repair assistance and was connected with SHE. 

Ms. Zarate lives alone and does not have the resources to address needed repairs on her own. Through the program, SHE completed critical improvements to her home, including a new roof, repaired and repainted fascia, replaced fan, updated electrical outlets, and cleaned air ducts. 

Reflecting on the work, Ms. Zarate shared: 

“The team treated my home with care and respect, and the repairs have made a big difference in my daily life. I’m very grateful for their help.” 

Funded in part by local community programs like the City of Farmersville CDBG, SHE’s rehabilitation program is available in multiple cities throughout the San Joaquin Valley. It helps preserve older homes and provides essential health and safety improvements for homeowners who might not otherwise have the resources to make them. 

Through partnerships with cities and counties, SHE ensures that older homes remain safe and livable, helping residents like Ms. Zarate maintain stability and dignity in their homes. 

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