With Nicole Coon, Vice President of Membership & Events; Christopher Hagness, Membership Manager; and Kim Carter, Membership & Events Coordinator
When people join Housing First Minnesota or become more seasoned members, we’re often asked, “How can I get the most out of my membership?” Housing First Minnesota is here to serve and put you in the best position for your future, whether it’s advocating, educating, or providing opportunities for networking. Here, we’ve pulled together some of our most commonly asked questions about membership. We hope you get some ideas, or can reinforce what you are already implementing, to get the most out of your membership!
Q. How can I take advantage of networking opportunities with the association?
NICOLE: Making connections is at the top of the list for many members when they join. We host many different events that are as casual as a happy hour to the more formal BIG Night—and everything in between. We have an opportunity for every interest group. These events bring together a wide variety of people and businesses in one room. It really is as simple as showing up! And when you do, be prepared with business cards as you are sure to meet some new people.
The best way to build strong relationships is to get involved. We have many different committees and task forces (that range from a minimal commitment to high involvement) of member representatives to create the best events and help steer the efforts of our advocacy team. This is a great way to meet and network with members.
Q. How do I leverage my membership to reach the most people?
CHRIS: This is where you take your networking strategy to the next level. In addition to our annual printed member directory and online directory search, member lists are available for you to create your own direct mail campaign, making it easier for you to get to the right people at a very affordable rate. We also offer a myriad of advertising and sponsorship opportunities, both digital and print, which can really expand your coverage to consumers and business partners. Kori and Brad Meewes are strategic with partnership recommendations to make the most of your marketing dollars and help you get in front of the right audience.
Q. How does my team get engaged with Housing First Minnesota?
KIM: Simply put, sign up to receive the broad spectrum of digital and print publications we put together each year. From our e-newsletters to Housing Industry News to our consumer guidebooks, these publications will keep your team up to date on the state of the industry and help you put the best image of your company forward to your customer. The Hot Sheet is a monthly look at the housing market, featuring the latest industry data, and is our most-viewed digital communication. While all of our publications serve a different purpose, your staff has access to all of it.
When your company is a member of Housing First Minnesota, your entire staff benefits. This means everyone can stay up to date on all of the things that membership brings to the table. Employees can subscribe to our suite of communications at any time—reach out to the membership team and we can send you a link specific to your company to have your colleagues create their own profile and start receiving digital communications. This will allow your staff to stay up to date on industry news and legislation, as well as networking opportunities. Plus, there is a calendar of events online for you to save the date and updates on registration.
Q. How is my membership supporting the housing industry?
CHRIS: Housing First Minnesota works at the state and local government levels so you can focus on what you are best at. Our advocacy team works diligently on your behalf to ensure our homeowners can get a safe home at a price they can afford, that fits their needs and lifestyle. We work to protect you and your bottom line while you are building, remodeling, or supporting these efforts. While permitting and codes are an important part of any government, we advocate on behalf of the housing industry to make sure it is reasonable and necessary so you can operate effectively and provide the opportunity for homeownership for everyone.
Q. How is Housing First Minnesota helping others?
NICOLE: You want to help others, so do we. Your membership helps support the efforts of the Housing First Minnesota Foundation. Over the past 25 years, this support from our membership has resulted in 57 completed community builds that have provided over 180 shelter beds in the community! The Foundation has also provided over $100,000 in scholarships to provide educational opportunities and training for tomorrow’s workforce in the construction industry.
As a member, you can volunteer for the Foundation’s committees or support its events and fundraisers through donations. The Foundation also has a golf tournament and an annual Gala for members to come and support the efforts. These events are a great way to give back and meet others in the community while helping make homeownership a reality for people that may otherwise never have the opportunity!
Questions on membership at Housing First Minnesota? Our team is here to serve and put you in the best position for your future. Don’t hesitate to reach out to for more information on how to get involved. Contact membership@housingfirstmn.org or learn more at housingfirstmn.org/MemberBenefits.
READ: Meet the Membership Team >>
