Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency 211 North Front Street Harrisburg, PA 17101 AFFIRMATIVE ACTION PLAN for HOME FUNDED PROJECTS 2015

Overview of the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency Affirmative Action Plan

The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) is responsible for implementing an Affirmative Action Plan aimed at ensuring equal opportunity in housing projects funded by the agency. This plan outlines the agency's commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in all aspects of its operations, particularly in the awarding of contracts and the selection of project ownership entities. The Affirmative Action Plan is essential for compliance with federal and state regulations, ensuring that all eligible applicants have a fair chance to participate in housing projects.

Steps to Complete the Affirmative Action Plan

Completing the Affirmative Action Plan involves several key steps. First, project ownership entities must gather necessary documentation that demonstrates their commitment to diversity and inclusion. This includes establishing outreach efforts to minority and women-owned businesses. Next, entities should develop specific goals and timelines for achieving these objectives. Finally, the completed plan must be submitted to the PHFA for review and approval, ensuring that all criteria are met before the project can proceed.

Legal Use of the Affirmative Action Plan

The Affirmative Action Plan is legally binding and must adhere to various federal and state laws regarding equal opportunity in housing. Entities must ensure compliance with the Fair Housing Act and other relevant legislation. This includes maintaining records of outreach efforts, monitoring progress towards established goals, and addressing any potential disparities in participation rates among different demographic groups. Legal compliance is critical to avoid penalties and ensure the successful completion of funded projects.

Key Elements of the Affirmative Action Plan

Several key elements must be included in the Affirmative Action Plan to ensure its effectiveness. These elements include:

• Goals and Objectives: Clear, measurable goals that outline the expected outcomes of the plan.
• Outreach Strategies: Specific methods for engaging minority and women-owned businesses in the bidding process.
• Monitoring and Reporting: Procedures for tracking progress and reporting results to the PHFA.
• Training and Support: Resources and training opportunities for project ownership entities to enhance their understanding of affirmative action principles.

Eligibility Criteria for Participation

To participate in projects funded by the PHFA, ownership entities must meet specific eligibility criteria. These criteria include demonstrating a commitment to diversity, having a history of compliance with affirmative action laws, and providing evidence of outreach efforts to underrepresented groups. Additionally, entities must show that they have the capacity to fulfill the requirements of the project while adhering to the principles outlined in the Affirmative Action Plan.

Application Process for the Affirmative Action Plan

The application process for the Affirmative Action Plan involves several steps. Entities must first complete a detailed application form that outlines their approach to achieving the goals of the plan. This includes submitting supporting documentation that demonstrates previous efforts in promoting diversity. After submission, the PHFA will review the application, provide feedback, and may request additional information before granting approval. It is essential for entities to ensure that all information is accurate and complete to facilitate a smooth review process.