Today we’d like to introduce you to Howard W. Grant, Phd
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My career has been dedicated to creating impactful, positive change, especially for underserved communities in Atlanta. I began this journey with a focus on empowering people through education, which led to my role as the first Executive Director of the Atlanta Board of Education. In this position, I worked to bridge gaps in educational resources, ensuring that all students, regardless of background, had access to quality education and the support they needed to thrive.
Later, as Senior Vice President of Government, External Affairs, and Human Development for the Atlanta Housing Authority, I took on a broader mandate, addressing the crucial needs for affordable housing, economic opportunity, and human services. My work involved forging strategic partnerships with community organizations and government agencies to create sustainable solutions for housing and provide comprehensive support to Atlanta’s low-income residents.
Now, as only the second President & CEO of the Fulton Atlanta Community Action Authority (FACAA) in its 31-year history, I am proud to lead an agency dedicated to moving the needle on poverty. FACAA’s mission aligns with my lifelong commitment to community service: we provide the necessary wrap-around support that puts residents on a path of progressive growth. From housing assistance to job training and beyond, our services are designed to empower individuals and families to achieve stability and long-term success.
Every role I’ve taken has been driven by a desire to be impactful by changing people’s lives. Through education, housing, and now community action, my goal has always been to create real, lasting change for Atlanta’s most vulnerable residents.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road in my career of community service. The journey has been rewarding, but it has come with its share of struggles. One of the biggest challenges is what I call the bureaucracy of service. When you’re dedicated to helping communities thrive, it can be disheartening to see crucial services bogged down by layers of government bureaucracy. Navigating through regulations, approvals, and requirements can slow down the process of delivering urgent aid to those who need it most, and at times, it’s been an uphill battle just to get resources where they’re needed quickly.
Another challenge has been shifting mindsets. Many residents we serve have been through such difficult times that rebuilding confidence is part of the journey. Empowering individuals to believe in their ability to help themselves is a significant but rewarding challenge. We work not only to provide resources but also to instill a sense of self-worth and possibility in the people we serve.
Additionally, there’s often a disconnect in how poverty is perceived by those who haven’t experienced it. Misconceptions can create stigma, which makes it even harder for those in need to reach out for assistance or support. Educating the broader community and fostering empathy is essential to building a more supportive environment for everyone.
Finally, the shortage of affordable housing remains one of the most pressing issues. Stable housing is the foundation for so many aspects of life, yet finding affordable options is increasingly difficult. This challenge drives our work every day, as we push to expand resources, advocate for change, and support residents’ efforts toward a better future.
These obstacles have shaped my journey and fueled my commitment to the work. Each challenge is a reminder of why we continue to strive for meaningful, lasting impact.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As the President & CEO of the Fulton Atlanta Community Action Authority (FACAA), I oversee programs and initiatives designed to alleviate poverty and promote self-sufficiency for the residents of Fulton and Atlanta. FACAA is committed to providing wrap-around and support services that foster sustainable growth, and my work revolves around empowering the most vulnerable in our community by addressing both their immediate needs and long-term potential.
With a background that includes serving as the Executive Director of the Atlanta Board of Education and Senior VP of Government, External Affairs, and Human Development for the Atlanta Housing Authority, I bring a deep understanding of public service, advocacy, and resource development. My experiences across educational, housing, and community sectors give me a comprehensive perspective on the systemic challenges our low-income residents face. This enables me to craft more integrated solutions for issues such as affordable housing, workforce development, and accessible education and healthcare.
I am especially proud of my commitment to transformative, hands-on approaches that make a measurable difference in people’s lives. For instance, my role at FACAA allows me to champion policies and programs that not only provide financial assistance but also offer tools for financial literacy, job readiness, and personal development. This holistic approach, which is central to FACAA’s mission, is what sets us apart and what I believe is essential for genuine, long-lasting impact.
What sets me apart is my drive to implement systemic change that combines both community service and governmental strategies, blending immediate relief with long-term empowerment. This dual focus on addressing present hardships while building paths to self-reliance and community resilience is what I am known for and what continues to fuel my passion in this role.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
One of my favorite childhood memories is playing in the streets of Brooklyn, New York surrounded by the unique, vibrant mix of cultures and backgrounds. Growing up in such a diverse neighborhood instilled in me a true sense of community and an appreciation for people of different religions and ethnicities. We’d spend hours playing games, sharing stories, and looking out for each other. It was a warm, inclusive environment that shaped my love for community and connection, and it’s something I carry with me in my work today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/facaa_official
- Instagram: @facaa_official
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/facaaorg
