Housing Authority of Champaign County

THE HOUSING HUB

Monthly Newsletter

Secretary Scott Turner visited HACC to announce a new proposed rule to provide all public housing authorities (PHAs) and Section 8 project-based rental assistance (PBRA) owners flexibility to implement work requirements and time limits for non-elderly, non-disabled work-capable adults in HUD-funded housing.

Secretary Turner also launched the Work and Dignity Coalition in Champaign County, bringing together PHAs, Owners, tribes, states, non-profit partners, and faith-based organizations who support the principles behind HUD’s proposed efforts to strengthen work, opportunity, and self-sufficiency. By joining, participating entities will publicly signal support and interest in implementing accountability and supportive services to promote the dignity of work and economic independence.

The HACC HCV team attended the Las Vegas Nelrod Conference, where they gained valuable insights and best practices to bring back and implement within our agency. In addition to expanding their knowledge, the team also had the opportunity to strengthen connections, collaborate, and build camaraderie outside of the office.

On February 2nd, we officially selected HACC YouthBuild’s 14th Cohort! We are excited to introduce this outstanding group of young leaders and are already incredibly impressed by their drive and potential. We look forward to supporting their growth and success throughout the program.

We are so happy to announce Angela Gordan as our February Champion of the Month.

Angi truly represents the heart of our organization. As the first face many of our clients see, she creates a welcoming and positive experience from the moment they walk through the door. Her kindness, patience, professionalism, and genuine care help every person feel seen and valued. She handles questions and concerns with grace and a calm demeanor, all while continuing to learn and adapt to new systems to better serve our participants. Her teamwork, dedication, and commitment to our Champion Values make a lasting impact on both our clients and our staff. We are grateful for all she does and are proud to celebrate her.

We’re proud to recognize James Lee, Director of Construction and Real Estate Development, as HACC’s Leader of the Year. Since joining HACC, James has made an incredible impact across our organization. He has fast-tracked dormant projects, brought the maintenance team under his leadership, and truly elevated our development efforts. His dedication to improving our properties is matched by his deep belief that everyone in our community deserves to live in a place they are proud to call home—no matter their income. You can often find James out at our different sites, making sure projects stay on track and working to secure the best contractors for the job. His hands-on leadership, passion for quality, and commitment to our residents have taken our developments to the next level. We are incredibly grateful for James and the vision, energy, and care he brings to HACC every day.

We’re excited to recognize Peyton Pannell-Johnson, Communications Coordinator, as HACC’s Employee of the Year. Since joining HACC, Peyton has completely transformed our communications and social media presence. She has helped create cohesive marketing materials across the organization while making sure our platforms highlight not only HACC events, but also the many Champaign County organizations and initiatives working to strengthen our community. Peyton is always willing to jump in and help any department that needs support, never hesitating to lend a hand. She also holds a special place in her heart for our YouthBuild program. Many students across different cohorts see her as a safe and supportive presence, which is a powerful reminder of why programs like YouthBuild are so important. We are incredibly grateful for Peyton’s creativity, dedication, and the care she brings to HACC every day.

Director of Compliance Neoshi Gipson and Manager of Policy and Strategic Initiatives Jahlinea Cekander proudly received their HCV Executive Management (V.E.M.) certification through Nan McKay, strengthening HACC’s leadership and expertise in housing choice voucher administration.