Happy New Year! 2017 already promises to be eventful and challenging. However, it is invigorating to know that our effectiveness lies in the work we have already begun. In this issue, we note trends we expect to see continue in the coming year and highlight our work in those areas. Our new book, themed symposia series and annual surveys are platforms that will help us deliver solutions for the country’s community development challenges.

Our new book, “NeighborWorks Works: Practical Solutions from America’s Community Development Network,” showcases our network's innovative solutions in affordable housing and community development. We want to engage you in the conversation. Read the book, visit us at our book events and have some fun. Pick a place that represents your organization and community—a city landmark, local park, volunteer event, etc.; snap a photo of the book at the location; and post it to Facebook, Instagram and/or Twitter, tagging it with #OurNWBook! Get creative and have fun.

In 2016, NeighborWorks released the results of two surveys— one on homeownership and another on financial capability. The surveys showed that nearly 30 percent of adults do not have an emergency fund to help weather a financial shock and that student loan debt is one of the biggest barriers to homeownership. The surveys also underscore the need for many of the services and programs our network organizations provide in their local communities.

Throughout our new, themed symposia series, we discussed tough issues critical to creating economic opportunity. In May, the symposium explored the essential role of diversity in affordable housing and community development. Watch the video and learn more about how our network engages residents for the benefit of everyone.