Today we’d like to introduce you to Chenee’ Joseph
Hi Chenee’, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My journey to becoming the President and CEO of the Historic District Development Corporation (HDDC) has been one of resilience and determination. I started in construction management and worked my way up through roles at the Atlanta Housing Authority and in the private sector, where I managed multi-million-dollar projects and improved operational efficiencies.
At HDDC, an organization founded by Coretta Scott King, I’ve faced major obstacles, from a lack of financial support and red tape to challenges with neighboring property owners. Despite these hurdles, my commitment to affordable housing and preserving Atlanta’s historic districts has never wavered. I have had the privilege to work with many different neighborhoods in Atlanta, which cultivated my passion for people and sustainable communities. Leading projects like Front Porch the $40 million mixed-use development on Auburn Avenue has been challenging, but I’ve never surrendered, and I believe that tenacity brought me to where I am today.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. One of the most significant challenges we faced was securing financial support for critical projects. Our latest development, a $40 million mixed-use property on Auburn Avenue, was met with resistance from several angles. The City of Atlanta initially provided little financial backing, insurance companies were pricing us out of the market, and neighboring landlords were often negligent.
We also faced challenges from the Atlanta Watershed Management, which held up the project with phantom bills, and there was little enforcement of local laws by the police in the area, making it difficult to maintain a safe, functional environment during construction. Despite these setbacks, we persevered. The obstacles I encountered only strengthened my resolve to carry forward HDDC’s mission of preserving the soul of Atlanta through housing equity and neighborhood revitalization.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
The Historic District Development Corporation (HDDC) is a nonprofit organization focused on affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization, particularly in Atlanta’s historic districts like Sweet Auburn. Founded by Coretta Scott King, we strive to honor her legacy by ensuring that the people who live in these communities, many of whom have deep roots here, have access to affordable housing.
We specialize in developing mixed-use properties that provide affordable living options while also creating spaces that enhance the community’s quality of life. What sets us apart is our commitment to both preservation and progress. We’re not just about building homes; we’re about building communities that honor the past and provide opportunities for the future.
Brandwise, I’m most proud of HDDC’s ability to develop against the odds and stay true to our mission. We continue to stand firm in the face of financial, bureaucratic, and societal pressures that would otherwise threaten our vision for equitable housing. The recent Auburn Avenue project is a testament to our resilience, and it’s something I hold close to my heart because it wasn’t just about constructing buildings—it was about revitalizing an area that holds so much history for the city of Atlanta.
I want people to know that HDDC isn’t just a nonprofit organization focused on affordable housing—we are an integral part of Atlanta’s history and its future. We work diligently to develop properties that serve the community, and we are committed to keeping housing affordable for generations to come. Our services include not just development, but also programs that improve the quality of life for the people who live here.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Something people may not know is that I’ve always been deeply involved in the day-to-day activities of our projects. I’m not just the CEO; I’m hands-on with everything from reviewing contracts to working directly with community members. I’ve spent countless hours on-site, making sure every detail is in line with our mission and vision.
We don’t operate with traditional pricing models like for-profit organizations, but we are committed to providing affordable housing that is accessible to the community. Our developments are priced to ensure long-term affordability, and promote collaboration among the residents.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://hddc.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hddccommunity/
- Twitter: https://x.com/HDDCCommunity
Image Credits
Courtesy of Chenee’ Joseph
