(COLUMBUS, Ohio, October 30, 2024) - The Columbus REALTORS® Foundation returned to Chicago Avenue in nearby Franklinton to celebrate the completion of two duplex units that will be added to the much-needed supply of affordable housing in central Ohio.
In May 2023, the Columbus REALTORS® Foundation gathered with Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther and representatives from Franklinton Rising & Vista Village on Chicago Avenue in Franklinton to celebrate the largest donation in the Foundation's history.
A check for $50,000 was given to Tom Heffner, President of Franklinton Rising, and John Perez, President of Vista Village, a Tiny Home Community designed for the homeless that is being constructed south of Refugee Road and west of Hamilton Road on the city’s east side.
Franklinton Rising is a non-profit led by Heffner that is focused on not only adding more affordable housing options to central Ohio but also has an even deeper mission: investing in the transformation of young at-risk adults by teaching them how to achieve successful careers in the building trades while developing critical life skills.
The need for skilled tradespeople has never been higher in central Ohio and throughout the state. According to Axios News, the construction industry faces a gap of half a million workers, and the application rate for technical jobs like plumbing and electrical work dropped by 49% between 2020 and 2022.
Heffner’s vision is to bring on local young adults interested in building a path toward a brighter future. The only requirement is for them to be working towards a high school diploma or equivalent.
Trainees are paid a wage starting at $10.50 an hour and are expected to work a minimum of 10 hours per week, not exceeding 30 hours in a given week. Over the last eight years, more than 120 trainees have participated in the program, with one-quarter of the trainees having been placed in professional jobs in the trades. The trainee program is managed by VP of Operations, Ben Trost.
“The Columbus REALTORS® Foundation is proud to be the longest-standing contributor to Franklinton Rising and its mission,” said Columbus REALTORS President Scott Hrabcak. “Tom Heffner and his incredible staff are changing lives not only for the tenants who move into their beautiful homes but also for the young men and women who are gaining the skills that lead to successful careers and, more importantly, fulfilling lives.”